I have fond memories of my 8-5 job. Actually, I don’t… but I sure liked the paycheck every week. Whether I worked, was sick, was on vacation,… I got that direct deposit like clockwork!
Now that I’m in Real Estate, not so much.
Would I like to go back? NOPE! NO! NEVER! Not EVER!
I love being a Realtor! But I remember the time I was trying to decide on leaving my W2 job and I had lots of questions. Hopefully, my comments and tips below will help you decide if it is for you.
Before You Begin
If you’re not listening to podcasts yet, you’re missing out! I have a handful of favorites that keep me learning while I’m in the car—music only comes on when my brain is too fried to focus.
One podcast I wish I had found before starting in real estate (even while studying) is Hustle Humbly. Alissa & Katy dive into real-life real estate challenges and break down exactly what to do when you’re new, so you can start building momentum before you even begin.
I’m not affiliated with them—I just love the podcast! You can check it out here: Hustle Humbly
Great episodes to add to your playlist:
📌 What to do when you’re new or slow
📌 Choosing a broker
📌 What to do when you don’t know what to do
📌 Databases (start building yours now!)
📌 Back to real estate school
📌 New Agent 101
I also listen to about 10 other podcasts, including REDEX Podcast and several that are GEORGIA contract related. The key? Find ones that not only teach you but also make you laugh and keep you entertained!
What are your favorite real estate or business podcasts? Let me know in the comments!
Breaking Down the Costs of Becoming A Real Estate Agent
When I was preparing for the Real Estate Exam, I searched everywhere for a clear breakdown of the costs involved—what to budget for, how much to expect to spend in the first few years, and what expenses were essential versus optional.
I found nothing.
So, I’m sharing what I wish I had known! These are the real costs I encountered in Georgia (prices may vary depending on your state and market).
Pre-License Education & Exam Fees
75-Hour Pre-License Class – $380 (I took mine online, and books were included.)
Study Tip: I copied and pasted key info into a document while studying. I also saved practice questions—it became my go-to study tool!
Study Resources – FREE!
- Checked out three study books from the library.
- Watched YouTube videos (Prep Agent was my favorite!).
- Listened to real estate podcasts.
- Followed Prep Agent’s Facebook page for free test guides.
Real Estate Exam – $150
I studied hard to pass on the first try (nerd alert! 
), so I didn’t have to pay to retake it.
Continuing Education (CE) & Licensing Fees
Continuing Education (CE) – $150 in my first year.
- Some CE courses are free—always be on the lookout!
- In Georgia, you must complete 25 hours in your first year and additional hours within your first four years.
Picking a Broker – This is a big decision! Different brokerages have different commission splits and fees. The podcasts I mentioned earlier can help you prepare for broker interviews.
Our brokerage offers:
Free training with ERA
Free website
Free business cards & signs
Free CRM (contact management)
Coaching Programs that can cost upwards of $500 with other Brokerages,…free or discounted for us and SO VALUABLE. We just took a Brian Buffini course at HALF the regular price
Some free leads & client opportunities
Some free leads & client opportunities
However, I pay $1,200 annually in fees (below) whether I make money or not.
Ongoing Realtor Expenses (2026 Numbers, may change)
Lockbox System – $225 per year
Local Area MLS (Savannah, rates change) – $480 per year
Realtor Association Membership (Local, State, National) – $486 (changes annually)
Office Fees – $25/month tech fee (ours are very low)
Errors & Omissions Insurance – $250 per year
Optional (But Helpful) Investments
- Open House Signs – $280 (Maybe wait until you close a deal!); my agents can use mine!
- Personal Website – $120-500 per year You can add items here too, like a name for your site and such!
- I received a $4,000 website quote, so I learned to build my own!
Saving Money as a New Realtor
In the beginning, you have time but not much money—so be strategic. Do the extra work yourself where you can. Later, as you gain traction, you’ll have more money but less time, and you can outsource tasks.
It’s all about balance, and it’s up to YOU!
What to Do While Studying for the Test (and After You Get Your License!)
Visit Open Houses & Take Notes
Visit Open Houses & Take NotesStart attending Open Houses—even before you’re licensed. Pay attention to how different agents interact with visitors, what you liked (or didn’t like), and what strategies stood out.
Pro Tip: Bring a notebook and jot down observations!
On my very first Open House visit, I met another Realtor, and we became fast friends. She specialized in New Construction and later helped me when I had a client looking in her area. (Shoutout to Tracy! 
)
Start Building Your Database NOW
Start Building Your Database NOWWho do you know? Everyone is a potential future client or referral source—former classmates, coworkers, neighbors, the parents from your kid’s sports team.
Create a simple Excel or Google Sheet with: Name Email Phone number Street address Notes (like where you met them or what they might be interested in)
This will be GOLD once you start marketing yourself as an agent. Just get started—you’ll refine it over time!
Establish Your Brand Early
Establish Your Brand EarlyThis took me longer than I’d like to admit! I initially had different names for my email, Facebook, and Instagram. It wasn’t until my second year that I merged everything into my brand:
LESLIE SELLS SAVANNAH
If you pick a name early, it’ll save you time and confusion later. Need ideas? Look at other Realtors in different markets for inspiration. Ask friends for their opinions. Sleep on it before making it official!
Study the Market in Your Area
Study the Market in Your AreaRegularly search for homes in your local market to get familiar with what’s available. Know which homes are active, under contract, or recently sold.
The more you know, the more confident you’ll be when talking to potential clients!
Let People Know About Your Journey
Let People Know About Your JourneyDon’t be shy about telling people you’re working toward your license! Share updates on social media and in casual conversations.
People work with those they know, like, and trust—so start building that trust now!
Books I Loved After Getting Licensed
Books I Loved After Getting LicensedIf you’re looking for a great read, these books helped me early on:
Success with Listings Miracle Morning for Real Estate Agents
Never Split the Difference
Good Luck!
I hope this guide gives you a clear picture of what to expect as you start your real estate journey! If you have any questions or suggestions, I’d love to hear from you—just shoot me an email.
Also, before you dive in, be sure to check for scholarships from your local, state, and national Realtor associations. There may be financial assistance available to help with your licensing costs!
Exciting Opportunity! ERA WILDER REALTY is looking for new agents in the Savannah area! If you’re considering real estate—even if you’re not 100% sure yet—let’s chat. I’d be happy to answer questions and help you explore your options.
Email me anytime: LeslieSellsSavannah@gmail.com
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