Is a Career in Real Estate Right for You? Here's What I Wish Someone Had Told Me.

Every year, thousands of people consider getting their real estate license. Some are looking for a career change. Others are drawn by the flexibility, the opportunity to build their own business, or the chance to help people through one of life's biggest financial decisions.

But before you enroll in a licensing class, it's worth asking an important question:

Is real estate the right career for you?

After more than 15 years in real estate—and years of serving as a Managing Broker and business owner—I've learned that success in this profession isn't about being the loudest person in the room or having the biggest social media following. It's about building relationships, earning trust, and showing up consistently for your clients and your community.

Real Estate Is a Business—Not Just a Job

One of the biggest surprises for new brokers is realizing they're not just becoming real estate agents—they're becoming business owners.

You're responsible for building your brand, developing relationships, creating marketing strategies, managing your finances, continuing your education, and delivering exceptional customer service.

It's exciting, rewarding, and sometimes challenging. But if you enjoy learning, solving problems, and helping people, it can also be one of the most fulfilling careers you'll ever have.

Success Doesn't Happen Overnight

Social media often highlights the closings, the celebrations, and the success stories. What you don't always see are the hours spent learning contracts, attending inspections, following up with clients, previewing homes, studying market trends, and continually improving your skills.

The brokers who build lasting careers understand that consistency matters more than quick wins. Every conversation, every showing, and every client relationship is an opportunity to build a reputation that will support your business for years to come.

Technology Is Changing the Industry

Artificial intelligence, digital marketing, virtual tours, and data-driven insights are transforming the way real estate professionals serve their clients.

Rather than replacing great brokers, these tools are helping us work more efficiently, communicate more effectively, and provide even greater value. The agents who embrace technology while continuing to prioritize relationships will be well positioned for the future.

Choosing the Right Brokerage Matters

Every brokerage offers something different, and finding the right fit is about much more than commission splits.

Ask yourself:

• Will I receive mentorship and guidance?
• Is there ongoing training and professional development?
• Does the brokerage provide marketing and technology resources?
• Is there a collaborative culture where people genuinely support one another?
• Will I have access to leadership when questions arise?

The right brokerage should help you build a sustainable career—not just process transactions.

Business Tip of the Week

Don't wait until you're licensed to start building your professional network.

Attend community events, connect with local business owners, follow the housing market, and introduce yourself to people in your neighborhood. Relationships built today can become clients and referral partners tomorrow.

Technology Spotlight

Artificial intelligence is becoming one of the most valuable tools available to real estate professionals.

AI can help with marketing, listing descriptions, social media planning, market analysis, client communication, and content creation. It doesn't replace your expertise—it gives you more time to focus on serving your clients.

The brokers who learn to use AI thoughtfully will have an advantage in the years ahead.

Leadership Corner

One lesson I've learned as a broker and business owner is that leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about creating an environment where people feel supported, encouraged, and challenged to grow.

Helping another broker succeed is one of the most rewarding parts of my career.

Question of the Week

Do I need sales experience to become a successful real estate broker?

Not necessarily.

Many outstanding brokers come from careers in nursing, education, construction, hospitality, finance, customer service, military service, and countless other professions.

Communication, integrity, problem-solving, and a genuine desire to help people often matter far more than traditional sales experience.

Lara's Perspective

Looking back, one of the things I'm most grateful for is that real estate has given me the opportunity to build meaningful relationships while helping people through important moments in their lives.

Every client has a story. Every transaction is different. That's one of the reasons I continue to enjoy this profession after all these years.

If you're considering real estate as a career, don't focus only on the income potential. Think about the kind of life and business you want to build.

With the right mindset, strong mentorship, and a commitment to continual learning, this profession offers incredible opportunities for personal and professional growth.

From My Desk

This week, I had the privilege of meeting buyers at several open houses across the Eastside, and one thing stood out to me.

Today's buyers are looking for more than someone to unlock a front door. They want a broker who is approachable, knowledgeable, and willing to listen.

Of course, they appreciate learning about the local market, understanding current trends, and asking questions about the homes they're touring. But more than anything, they want the opportunity to share their own thoughts, concerns, and goals without feeling like they're being given a sales presentation.

Many buyers are trying to make sense of today's market. They're wondering if it's the right time to buy, how interest rates affect affordability, whether they should consider new construction, or what they're gaining—or giving up—by making a move today.

As brokers, one of the most valuable skills we can develop isn't talking—it's listening.

When buyers feel heard, they become more comfortable sharing what's truly important to them. Those conversations allow us to provide advice that is thoughtful, personalized, and centered on their goals rather than our agenda.

This week reminded me that while market knowledge, negotiation skills, and contracts are all essential parts of our profession, trust is built one conversation at a time. Sometimes the best thing we can do for a client is simply listen first.

For anyone considering a career in real estate, remember this: people may forget the statistics you shared or the features of a home, but they'll remember how you made them feel. Build trust first, and the rest will follow.

Let's Have a Conversation

Whether you're exploring a career in real estate, working toward getting licensed, or you're an experienced broker wondering if it's time for a change, I'd be happy to connect.

There's no pressure and no recruiting pitch—just a conversation about your goals, your questions, and what you're looking for in the next chapter of your career.

If I can help you make a more informed decision, I'd be honored to be a resource.

Lara Germino Dunn
Owner | Designated Broker | Managing Broker
Weichert Realtors® – Pillar Northwest

Helping brokers build successful careers while serving buyers and sellers throughout King County and the Eastside.