What Should You Do After Getting a Real Estate License?

Earning your real estate license is a significant milestone—one that opens the door to a dynamic and potentially rewarding career. But once you have that license in hand, what’s next? The journey doesn’t end with passing the exam; in many ways, it’s just the beginning. Knowing the right steps to take after becoming licensed can set the foundation for long-term success in the competitive world of real estate.

Navigating the post-licensing phase involves more than just jumping into listings and showings. It requires strategic planning, building a professional network, and understanding the business side of real estate. Whether you’re aiming to join an established brokerage, build your own brand, or specialize in a niche market, the choices you make early on will shape your career trajectory.

This article will guide you through the essential actions to take after obtaining your real estate license, helping you transition smoothly from newcomer to confident professional. From setting goals to gaining practical experience, you’ll discover how to leverage your new credentials and start making an impact in the industry.

Choosing a Brokerage to Join

Selecting the right brokerage is a critical step after obtaining your real estate license. The brokerage you join will provide you with essential resources, mentorship, and a platform to conduct your business legally and effectively. It is important to evaluate brokerages based on several key factors, including their reputation, commission structure, training programs, and company culture.

When assessing brokerages, consider the following:

Reputation and Market Presence: A well-established brokerage with a strong local presence can offer greater exposure and credibility.
Commission Splits and Fees: Understand how commissions are shared and what fees you will be responsible for, such as desk fees or marketing costs.
Training and Support: Especially for new agents, access to ongoing education, mentorship, and administrative support is invaluable.
Technology and Tools: Brokerages that provide advanced CRM systems, listing platforms, and marketing tools can enhance your productivity.
Office Environment and Culture: A supportive and collaborative environment can greatly influence your career development.

Here’s a comparison table to help you evaluate potential brokerages:

Brokerage	Commission Split	Training Programs	Technology Provided	Monthly Fees
Brokerage A	70/30	Extensive	CRM, Mobile App	$150
Brokerage B	80/20	Moderate	Listing Software	$0
Brokerage C	60/40	Basic	Limited	$200

Take time to meet with different brokers, ask questions, and even speak with agents currently working there to gauge if it’s the right fit for your career objectives.

Building Your Real Estate Network

A robust professional network is essential for success in real estate. After getting licensed, focus on establishing relationships with clients, fellow agents, lenders, inspectors, and other industry professionals. Networking not only helps you gain referrals but also keeps you informed about market trends and opportunities.

To build your network effectively, consider the following approaches:

Join Local Real Estate Associations: Organizations such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or local boards offer networking events, educational seminars, and industry news.
Attend Open Houses and Community Events: These are excellent opportunities to meet potential clients and other real estate professionals.
Leverage Social Media Platforms: Maintain active profiles on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook to share market insights, listings, and engage with your audience.
Develop Relationships with Service Providers: Connect with mortgage brokers, home inspectors, contractors, and attorneys who can refer clients and provide valuable services.
Partner with Experienced Agents: Collaborating or shadowing seasoned agents can help you learn best practices and gain credibility.

Consistent and authentic engagement with your network will establish you as a trusted professional and help generate leads over time.

Marketing Yourself as a New Agent

Effective marketing is vital to building your brand and attracting clients in a competitive real estate market. Develop a marketing plan that highlights your unique value proposition and leverages multiple channels to maximize reach.

Key components of a strong marketing strategy include:

Personal Branding: Create a professional logo, business cards, and a consistent visual identity across all platforms.
Online Presence: Design a user-friendly website showcasing your services, listings, client testimonials, and contact information.
Content Marketing: Share educational blog posts, market updates, and video walkthroughs to demonstrate your expertise.
Email Campaigns: Build an email list to nurture relationships through newsletters and property alerts.
Paid Advertising: Utilize social media ads and search engine marketing to target specific demographics in your service area.

Remember to track your marketing efforts to identify what yields the best return on investment. Tools such as Google Analytics and social media insights can provide valuable data to optimize campaigns.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

The real estate industry is dynamic, with regulations, market conditions, and technology evolving constantly. To maintain your license and stay competitive, commit to ongoing education and professional growth.

Important aspects include:

State-Mandated Continuing Education: Most states require licensed agents to complete a set number of hours of coursework to renew their license.
Specialty Certifications: Consider obtaining certifications such as Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) to enhance your credentials.
Workshops and Seminars: Attend industry conferences and local training sessions to gain new skills and network.
Technology Training: Stay updated on emerging tools and platforms that can streamline your workflow.
Market Research: Regularly analyze trends and data to provide informed advice to clients.

Investing in your professional development will not only help you meet regulatory requirements but also build trust and authority in the marketplace.

Establish a Brokerage Affiliation

After obtaining your real estate license, the next critical step is to affiliate with a licensed real estate brokerage. Most states require new agents to work under a broker’s supervision to legally practice real estate transactions.

Choosing the right brokerage impacts your career trajectory, training opportunities, and commission structure. Consider the following factors when selecting a brokerage:

Brokerage Reputation: Research the brokerage’s market presence and reputation within the local real estate community.
Training and Support: Determine if the brokerage offers comprehensive training programs, mentorship, and ongoing education.
Commission Splits and Fees: Understand the commission structure, desk fees, and any additional costs involved.
Technology and Marketing Tools: Evaluate the availability of CRM systems, listing tools, and marketing support.
Company Culture: Assess whether the brokerage’s values and work environment align with your professional goals.

Once you identify a brokerage that fits your needs, submit an application and complete any additional onboarding paperwork or agreements required by the firm.

Complete State and Local Licensing Requirements

After passing your real estate exam and affiliating with a brokerage, ensure all state and local licensing obligations are fulfilled to maintain active status.

License Activation: Submit your license application through your state’s real estate commission or regulatory body. Some states require broker sponsorship confirmation before activation.
Errors and Omissions Insurance: Obtain E&O insurance, which protects you from liability arising from mistakes or oversights in your transactions.
Continuing Education (CE): Verify deadlines and requirements for your first CE courses, which are typically mandatory within the first year or two of licensure.
Local Association Memberships: Join your local real estate board or association, which often provides access to Multiple Listing Services (MLS) and other vital resources.

Build Your Professional Brand and Network

Establishing a strong professional presence and network is essential for generating leads and building a successful real estate career.

Focus on the following strategies to develop your brand and expand your reach:

Create a Professional Website: Showcase your services, listings, client testimonials, and contact information.
Leverage Social Media Platforms: Use LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and other channels to share market insights, engage with potential clients, and promote listings.
Attend Industry Events and Networking Meetings: Join local real estate groups, chambers of commerce, and community events to meet potential clients and referral partners.
Develop a Sphere of Influence (SOI): Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances to announce your new career and ask for referrals.
Utilize Direct Marketing: Employ email campaigns, newsletters, and postcards to stay top-of-mind with your audience.

Gain Practical Experience Through Transactions

Practical experience is invaluable in honing your skills and building confidence as a licensed real estate agent.

Take proactive steps to gain transaction experience:

Shadow Experienced Agents: Observe and assist seasoned agents to learn best practices in client interactions, negotiations, and paperwork management.
Work on Listing Presentations: Develop and practice presentations to win listings and demonstrate market knowledge.
Conduct Buyer Consultations: Learn how to identify client needs, explain processes, and guide buyers through property searches.
Manage Transaction Coordination: Familiarize yourself with contracts, disclosures, and deadlines to ensure smooth closings.
Seek Mentorship: Establish a relationship with a broker or senior agent who can provide guidance and feedback.

Understand and Implement Compliance Practices

Compliance with legal and ethical standards is crucial for protecting your license and reputation.

Compliance Area	Key Actions	Resources
Fair Housing Laws	Study and adhere to federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. Ensure all client interactions and advertising comply.	HUD Website, State Real Estate Commission
Agency Disclosure	Provide timely disclosure of your agency relationship to clients. Use approved forms and documentation.	State Licensing Authority, Brokerage Policies
Record Keeping	Maintain organized records of all transactions and communications. Comply with retention period requirements.	Brokerage Guidelines, State Regulations

Develop a Business Plan and Set Goals

A clear business plan provides direction and benchmarks for your real estate career.

Key components to include in your plan:

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Expert Guidance on Steps After Obtaining Your Real Estate License

Jessica Martinez (Licensed Real Estate Broker and Trainer, Horizon Realty Group). After securing your real estate license, the most critical step is to join a reputable brokerage that aligns with your career goals. This affiliation provides essential mentorship, access to listings, and the infrastructure needed to build your client base effectively. Additionally, investing time in mastering local market trends and continuing education will position you for long-term success.

David Chen (Real Estate Marketing Consultant and Author, MarketEdge Strategies). Once licensed, new agents should prioritize developing a comprehensive marketing plan that leverages both digital and traditional channels. Building a strong personal brand through social media, networking events, and community involvement is vital to attract and retain clients. Consistency and professionalism in your outreach efforts will differentiate you in a competitive marketplace.

Linda Foster (Real Estate Career Coach and Former Top-Producing Agent, Foster Realty Coaching). It is essential for newly licensed agents to establish a disciplined work routine that includes prospecting, follow-ups, and client relationship management. Utilizing CRM tools early on can streamline these processes. Furthermore, setting measurable goals and seeking continuous feedback from experienced mentors accelerates your growth and confidence in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the first steps to take after obtaining a real estate license?
Immediately join a reputable brokerage to gain practical experience, complete any required post-license education, and begin building your professional network.

How important is choosing the right brokerage after getting licensed?
Selecting the right brokerage is crucial as it provides training, resources, mentorship, and leads that directly impact your early success in the industry.

What continuing education requirements should new agents be aware of?
Most states require new agents to complete continuing education courses within the first year or two to maintain their license and stay updated on industry regulations.

How can new real estate agents start generating leads effectively?
Leverage personal and professional networks, utilize social media marketing, attend community events, and consider joining local real estate associations to build a client base.

What tools and technology should new agents invest in after licensing?
Invest in a reliable customer relationship management (CRM) system, a professional website, mobile apps for property searches, and marketing tools to streamline operations and client communication.

Is obtaining additional certifications beneficial after getting a real estate license?
Yes, earning specialized certifications such as Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) or Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) can enhance credibility and expand career opportunities.
After obtaining a real estate license, the next critical steps involve laying a strong foundation for a successful career. This includes selecting the right brokerage to join, as this decision will impact your training opportunities, mentorship, and access to listings. Additionally, investing time in continuing education and professional development is essential to stay informed about market trends, legal updates, and effective sales techniques.

Building a robust network is equally important. Establishing relationships with clients, fellow agents, lenders, and other industry professionals will help generate leads and referrals. Developing a marketing strategy, including an online presence through social media and a professional website, can significantly enhance your visibility and credibility in the competitive real estate market.

Ultimately, patience, persistence, and a commitment to ethical practices will drive long-term success. By focusing on continuous learning, networking, and strategic marketing, newly licensed real estate agents can effectively transition from licensing to thriving in their careers, turning their credentials into tangible results and growth opportunities.
Author Profile

Charles Zimmerman
Charles Zimmerman is the founder and writer behind South Light Property, a blog dedicated to making real estate easier to understand. Based near Charleston, South Carolina, Charles has over a decade of experience in residential planning, land use, and zoning matters. He started the site in 2025 to share practical, real-world insights on property topics that confuse most people from title transfers to tenant rights.

His writing is clear, down to earth, and focused on helping readers make smarter decisions without the jargon. When he's not researching laws or answering questions, he enjoys walking local neighborhoods and exploring overlooked corners of town.
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