What does a Realtor do?

Realtors operate as licensed real estate agents and work as a representative with either the property buyer, seller, or both entities. They help buyers to define their desired property and amenity requirements as well as their price point. Realtors provide buyers with appropriate options that meet their agreed-upon requests and price point. They can represent a seller by helping them determine and set their sale price and calculation of their home value as well as the marketing of their listed property.

Realtors bring clients to properties on the market and make offers or negotiate the terms of property purchases on behalf of their clients. When a deal is reached, they serve as the point person through the property escrow process and ensure the sale is properly transacted and completed in such a way that their clients’ best interests remain paramount. If they represent the seller, they will strive to secure serious and qualified potential buyers as well as the best possible sale price. A realtor needs to have working knowledge of the local market and relevant information including past sales, demand, and inventory and will need a high school diploma or equivalent and the completion of a real estate training program or college courses in real estate. Realtors also need 1-3 years of experience as a real estate sales agent and a state license.

What responsibilities are common for Realtor jobs?
  • Negotiate purchase agreements and contracts with buyers and sellers
  • Develop strategies to obtain referrals and build your client portfolio.
  • Prepare necessary paperwork (contracts, leases, deeds, closing statements, etc.).
  • Cooperate with appraisers, escrow companies, lenders and home inspectors.
  • Handle all real estate activities and transactions on behalf of the clients.
  • Determine clients' needs and financials abilities to propose solutions that suit them.
  • Promote sales through advertisements, open houses and listing services.
  • Consult clients on market conditions, prices, mortgages, legal requirements and related matters, ensuring a fair and honest dealing.
  • Respond to emails, phone calls, and other correspondence as required.
  • Monitor and collect rental payments from displacees to ensure compliance with specified rental contract.
  • Oversee the entire process from listing to closing to ensure a quick and seamless transaction experience.
  • Schedule appointments for sales staff to meet prospective customers.
What are the typical qualifications for Realtor jobs?
  • Bachelor's Degree in business.
  • In-depth experience creating and managing leases, contracts, and other real estate documents.
  • Strong negotiation, time management, and problem solving skills.
  • Demonstrated careful attention to detail.
Education--
Work/Life Balance
4.2 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
4.2 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

How much does a Realtor make?

Confident
$134,078 /yr
Total Pay
$88,121
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$45,957
 /yr

Additional Pay

$134,078

 / yr
$78K$240K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Realtor Career Path

Learn how to become a Realtor, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Realtor

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
14%
2 - 4
25%
5 - 7
6%
8+
55%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Realtor Insights

Read what Realtor professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
EXPEXP
Real Estate Agent
May 16, 2023

“Technology and Systems are progressive Stock Program is great Payment Processing procedures top notch Flexibility to work and advertise”

PulteGroupPulteGroup
Sales Associate - Real Estate Agent - Realtor
Sep 25, 2021

“Great if you're single and want to make a lot of money but not a career.”

Combined InsuranceCombined Insurance
Licensed Agent
Oct 11, 2021

“Compensation is regularly incorrect and late( I was not paid my commission for two months for work performed and completed.”

F. C. Tucker CompanyF. C. Tucker Company
REALTOR®
May 25, 2022

“Great support in all areas of doing my job which includes areas such as administrative and creative support.”

Ed Prather Real Estate
Buyer Agent
Dec 2, 2022

“I started as a new agent and I have experienced great mentorship and guidance in my career switch.”

Cameron PrestigeCameron Prestige
Real Estate Agent
Sep 1, 2021

“I joined Cameron to learn more about investing in real estate and it was a great choice.”

Kinleigh Folkard & HaywardKinleigh Folkard & Hayward
Real Estate Agent
May 15, 2022

“The commission model is actually decent and is achievable if you know what you're doing and enjoy sales.”

Cameron Real Estate GroupCameron Real Estate Group
Real Estate Agent
Sep 1, 2021

“I joined Cameron to learn more about investing in real estate and it was a great choice.”

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Realtor Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Realtor

The most similar professions to Realtor are:
  • Leasing Agent
  • Business Development Manager
  • Sales Representative
  • Regional Sales Manager

Related Careers

Leasing Agent
$47,631
No skills overlap
Business Development Manager
$124,911
No skills overlap
Sales Representative
$84,376
No skills overlap
Regional Sales Manager
$144,558

Realtor Jobs