Is being a real estate agent worth it nowadays, especially in California?
In this article, we’ll walk through the pros and cons of working as a real estate agent in California, what to consider before making the leap, and how to get started with the right tools and support.
Pros and Cons of Becoming a Real Estate Agent in California
Like any career path, real estate has its advantages and challenges. Understanding both sides can help you decide whether this is the right move for you.
Benefits of a real estate career
- Flexible Schedule: Set your own hours and work when it fits your life.
- High Earning Potential: With commissions, your income is based on effort and results, not a fixed salary. It’s worth noting that the average income of real estate agents in California is $200,000, according to a 2024 survey of Allied Schools alumni.
- Independence: Be your own boss and build a business around your personal goals.
- Meaningful Work: Help people make one of the most important financial and personal decisions of their lives.
- No College Degree Required: You can start your new career without spending thousands on a college degree.
Drawbacks of a real estate career
- Inconsistent Income: Your pay is commission-based, which means income can vary month to month.
- Self-Motivation Is a Must: You’ll need to generate your own leads and stay disciplined with your time.
- Start-Up Costs: Licensing, marketing, and ongoing education require an upfront investment.
- Learning Curve: There’s a lot to master, especially in your first year.
Before You Decide: What to Consider
Becoming a real estate agent in California requires more than just interest. It takes preparation, strategy, and self-awareness. Ask yourself:
- Do I thrive with independence or need structure?
- Am I comfortable with a commission-based pay structure?
- Am I ready to invest time in learning and growing my business?
You should also think about the time it takes to get licensed in California. Most students complete the steps to get a license in four to six months, followed by additional time to establish a client base. The sooner you start, the sooner you can build momentum.
What About the California Housing Market?
While the market is always changing, homes continue to sell across California, even amid rising interest rates and inflation.
In fact, 2025 reports from the California Association of REALTORS® show that home sales and new listings remain steady across much of the state. While market activity continues to vary by region, agents who provide exceptional service and maintain transparent pricing are still well-positioned to succeed, regardless of broader conditions.
Setting Yourself Up for Success
Success in real estate doesn’t happen overnight, but the right education can make a major difference. Allied Schools offers self-paced pre-licensing packages that give you the knowledge and tools to pass the California licensing exam and build a confident start in the field.
We also offer a Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee, so you can feel secure investing in your future. Whether you prefer online or livestream options, Allied’s flexible format allows you to learn on your own schedule.
You could make your first year more successful with the right support from day one.
Take the First Step Toward Your Real Estate Career
If you’re asking, is being a real estate agent worth it nowadays, especially in California, the answer depends on what you’re looking for in a career. With flexibility, independence, and the right tools, real estate can be both rewarding and financially worthwhile.
Get started today with Allied Schools. We’ve been providing quality real estate education in California for over 30 years. Our pre-licensing packages and exam prep tools are designed to help you succeed in your new career from day one.
Disclaimer: This Salary Guide is for general informational purposes only, based on an August 2024 survey of Allied Schools alumni and publicly available industry sources. While Allied Schools strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, reliability, or applicability of the information. Earnings and outcomes vary widely based on factors like location, experience, and market conditions and should not be considered guarantees. This guide does not constitute professional advice. Users should consult additional sources for personalized guidance.
