New Real Estate Agents: I Wish I Knew This

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve wondered how to become a successful real estate agent. Achieving success in real estate takes dedication and hard work, but there are a few tips that can make your journey a little easier.

We sat down with CA Realty Training owner and head trainer, Robert Rico, to learn the best advice for new real estate agents and the tips that helped him build a successful career.

Produce Wholesome Work

Producing wholesome work will set you apart from every other real estate agent in the industry. In the words of Robert Rico, “Don’t half-a** it.” Every task deserves your full attention and energy. Without this commitment, you risk producing subpar work, which often leads to the reputation of an inexperienced agent.

Example in Practice: Going Above and Beyond

Imagine you’re preparing a marketing package for a new listing. Instead of quickly throwing together some photos and a description, you take the time to create high-quality images, an engaging property video, and a well-written description. You hold an open house that’s well-promoted, with snacks and a welcoming atmosphere. The result? Your clients are impressed, and your extra effort sets the standard for future referrals.

Tip: Always go the extra mile and commit to delivering quality work. This commitment will differentiate you and help you build a reputation as a professional real estate agent.

Schedule Everything You Do

Scheduling everything you do will help you stay organized, increase productivity, and improve time management. By keeping an organized schedule, you’ll be able to track appointments, meetings, and commitments on a visual calendar.

Scenario Highlight: Chaos Without a Calendar

A new agent relies on their memory for appointments and meetings. After double-booking two important clients and missing an open house, they quickly realize the importance of scheduling.

Tip: Plan your days, weeks, and even months in advance to stay on top of your workload. This practice will help you take on more responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed, and it will greatly reduce stress.

Remember Your Clients

Not building relationships is one of the biggest mistakes a real estate agent can make. The agent with the biggest network gets the most work and the most referrals.

Practical Example: Making Clients Feel Valued

An agent works with a first-time homebuyer and takes extra time to answer every question, follow up regularly, and take note of their preferences. After closing, the agent sends a thoughtful thank-you gift and checks in periodically. A year later, that same client refers a friend because they felt so valued.

Tip: Take time to show your clients you care. Taking notes after conversations and setting reminders about their needs can help you prioritize them. When clients feel remembered and valued, they are more likely to refer you to others.

Write Everything Down

You can’t rely on your memory alone. Writing everything down—from client details to important meetings—will help you stay organized and avoid missing crucial information.

Common Pitfall: Forgetting Important Details

An agent fails to write down key client preferences discussed during a call. Later, they present the wrong type of property, which frustrates the client and causes them to look elsewhere.

Tip: Keep a notepad, tablet, or digital tool handy to record all important information. Documenting conversations and client preferences ensures nothing gets overlooked, helping you deliver better service.

Final Thoughts for the New Real Estate Agent

Becoming a successful real estate agent isn’t about luck—it's about effort, strategy, and dedication. By taking the time to thoroughly execute your responsibilities, you can transition from wondering “if” you’ll be successful to “when” you will be.

When you build a professional lifestyle based on fundamentals like quality work, scheduling, relationship-building, and consistent note-taking, success becomes inevitable.