It's not hard to understand why there are more than 1.2 Million realtors alone in the US. Real estate agents can set their own schedules, are self-employed, and earn a good commission.

No need to look further for students who want to pursue a flexible career. 

Real estate agents have to represent both buyers and sellers and build their businesses. You need to have good marketing skills and be personable in order to excel.

What is the best way to start a career as an agent as a student?

To become a real estate agent, you must be at least 18-19 years of age. Some people at this age just doing their chemistry homework, but some students prefer to start their career in real estate. This means that most first-year college students and many seniors in high school can apply to their respective states for a license.

1. Get your license as soon as possible

It's best to obtain your license as soon as you can if you want to do more than just sell homes.

The more experience you have in the brokerage field, the better your chances are of establishing a network of trusted agents.

2. Search for reciprocity laws

The reciprocity of real estate allows an agent to move their license from one state to another without having the pre-licensing process for a new state.

You can also sell houses in other full-reciprocity states if you obtain your license from a state that offers full reciprocity, such as Alabama, Colorado or Washington.

The majority of full-reciprocity states require that you take a written test to obtain another driver's license. However, the vast majority of partial reciprocity and non-reciprocity state do.

You can easily sell homes in other states by obtaining a reciprocity license.

3. Join an online course

Online pre-licensing is recognized by several states as an acceptable way to obtain your license.

This route offers you greater flexibility which can be especially useful for busy students. Be sure that the school has an excellent reputation with quality teachers.

4. Do not Freelance, Find a Brokerage

Agents must have a sponsor to obtain a license.

You could go freelance as soon as your broker approves your documents, but it is not a good idea, particularly at the beginning of your career.

Real estate brokers are experienced agents. Brokers can offer a great deal of education.

Signing up for a brokerage also allows you to access a wide range of services, including marketing, training and business cards.

5. Create a business plan

Your real estate career, even if it's with a broker is still considered to be a small business.

You'll be more successful as an agent if you create a plan for your business that includes goals, target markets, marketing strategies, and a network.

6. Create a professional image

The real estate business is heavily image-driven. Clients will quickly decide whether or not they are going to hire an agent or buy a home.

How you look, behave, and speak can have a greater impact on your career than anything else.

Students who are transitioning into the workforce will find it difficult to develop a professional image. However, getting business and negotiation training is a great way to help.

You don't have to be dull. You can be creative in order to find your niche.

7. The first impressions make a difference

The majority of real estate clients interview only one agent when selling their house. Your response timing, combined with an excellent referral will ensure that you gain clients.

Avoid jokes, slang, misspellings and emoticons in your responses to build your credibility.

8. Open houses are a great way to generate leads.

Some people may say open houses "don't work" or don't result in a sale. They are not worth it. Sign-up sheets at open houses generate new leads and are therefore a cost-effective tool for marketing. An open house is as simple as a seller who's willing to host, some hours over the weekend and signage. The majority of people are drawn to an open house sign. Be prepared to deal with traffic on the day and a lot of questions. Make the most of this opportunity to show off your market and real estate knowledge. Open houses are still beneficial for newly-licensed agents who don't yet have listings. Many brokerages have many busy agents, who will be happy to let another agent volunteer at the open house. This allows them to do something else during that period. You can often follow up on names from the sign-in list after speaking with the agent who is listing the house.

9. Follow up on everything.

To be a successful agent, you must follow up on prospects who are interested. Always contact clients two days after showing them the property. Keep following up with your client until they make a final decision. You can call or send an email to the people who signed up for your open house a few days later. Note the names of those who have expressed an interest in purchasing or selling in the future. Contact them a few days later to find out how the process is going.

You now know what it takes to become a successful agent in the real estate market.

It's time to start. Discover what it takes to be a successful real estate agent, and explore the real estate training packages available in your state.