First Year as a Real Estate Agent in Texas: What to Expect
First Year as a Real Estate Agent in Texas: What to Expect
You passed your exam, got your license, and found a broker sponsor. Now what?
The first year in Texas real estate is when most agents either build the foundation for a successful career or decide the business isn't for them. Here's what to actually expect and how to give yourself the best chance of success.
The Reality of Year One
Let's be honest about the numbers. According to NAR, the median gross income for REALTORS with two years or less experience is around $9,000-15,000. That's gross, before expenses and splits.
This isn't meant to discourage you. It's meant to prepare you. The agents who make it past year one are the ones who planned for this reality.
Your First 90 Days
Month 1: Foundation Building
Your first month should focus on:
- Learning your MLS system inside and out
- Understanding your brokerage's transaction process
- Building your database of contacts
- Setting up your CRM
- Ordering business cards and setting up your professional profiles
Don't expect to close deals in month one. Focus on learning the business.
Month 2: Prospecting Begins
By month two, you should be:
- Reaching out to your sphere of influence
- Attending open houses (your listings or others')
- Learning your local market
- Practicing your listing and buyer presentations
- Shadowing experienced agents when possible
Month 3: Finding Your Rhythm
By month three, you should have:
- A consistent daily prospecting routine
- At least a few people in your pipeline
- A better understanding of what works for you
- Realistic expectations for the coming months
The Money Reality
Real estate is a commission-only business. Here's what that means for year one:
Expenses You'll Have
- MLS dues (varies by board)
- REALTOR association fees
- E&O insurance (if not covered by brokerage)
- Marketing materials
- Lockbox keys and supplies
- Continuing education
- CRM and technology tools
- Broker fees and splits
When Commission Arrives
Even when you do get a deal under contract, you don't get paid until closing. A typical transaction takes 30-45 days to close. Plan your finances accordingly.
Where New Agents Go Wrong
Mistake 1: Choosing the Wrong Brokerage
New agents often choose based on brand name or "leads provided." Neither of these typically delivers value proportional to what you give up in commission splits.
Ask instead: What actual support and training will I receive? How accessible is the broker when I have questions?
Mistake 2: Not Treating It Like a Business
Real estate is self-employment. You need:
- A business plan
- A marketing strategy
- A budget
- Dedicated work hours
- Metrics you track
Mistake 3: Waiting for Business to Come to You
No one knows you're an agent unless you tell them. Your sphere of influence is your most valuable asset. Use it.
Mistake 4: Giving Up Too Soon
Most agents quit in year one. Often, they quit right before things were about to turn around. Building a real estate business takes time. Set realistic expectations and give yourself at least 18-24 months before evaluating.
What Successful First-Year Agents Do
They treat it like a job with set hours, even without a boss watching. They tell everyone they know about their new career. They learn to handle rejection without taking it personally. They track their activities, not just their results. They find a mentor or coach. They focus on their sphere before chasing cold leads.
Choosing the Right Brokerage for Year One
Your broker choice matters more in year one than any other time. Look for:
- Actual training and education
- A broker who answers the phone
- Reasonable fees that don't eat your early commissions
- No long-term contracts that lock you in
- Technology and tools included
Be wary of brokerages that sell you on leads. Bought leads typically convert at 1-3%. Your own contacts convert at 10-15% or higher.
The Bottom Line
Your first year in Texas real estate will be challenging. You'll question your decision. You'll have months where nothing seems to work.
But if you treat it like a business, stay consistent with prospecting, and choose the right brokerage support, you can build a career that gives you the income and flexibility you were looking for when you got your license.
Looking for broker sponsorship in Texas that supports new agents without high splits? Learn about RaiderX