I am a 21 year old male in Riverside, California. I have been thinking about getting started in real estate for awhile now, and picked up the book a few nights ago and started studying. I have some questions;

How much time per week should a new agent dedicate to their business?

I am currently earning 1800 dollars a month as a computer operator, and hate my job. I really want to do something that I can control, and make some real money. How much money would be needed to start up a RE business?

How much money per month should be spent on advertising, or how much do you spend?

How many houses does a new agent close on average in their first year? My main concern is not having enough time to work the business. I have 3 days off per week, and about 5 hours to work the business the other days.

Right now I am not a huge people person, meaning I dont have a huge group of friends who will buy from me. What qualities are required to be successful in this business?

Jared:

You're asking some of the right questions. Don't get too concerned about the "people person" aspect. A great many different types of people succeed in real estate.

As far as business planning and budgeting for a new agent, you need to recognize your strengths and likes and plan around them. A great deal of new agent advice can be found in this new agent primer.

I have never been an especially gregarious people person, but I've carved out a very successful niche in serving vacation home buyers who come to me through my web sites. We normally work together months via email before we ever meet. I found this ability to get to know my clients via the internet fit my personality. You can probably find a market niche that suits you also.

i just started a month ago. i spent all together about $2500 for everything. plus you will need some saved up.... cause it takes a while to start really makin money

It can be pretty intensive and demanding, especially early on. You may not see the returns you're looking for being only able to dedicate 3 days a week to it.

Not saying it can't be done, but starting new AND going part time can be difficult to build momentum.

Don't quit your job!!!! You need to start real estate on a part time basis. Get your feet wet, join a company with a strong support system and a track record for success. You might want to consider joining a team. Leads can be provided for you. If you join the right team, you'll start seeing money right away. You might even be able to leave your JOB sooner than expected. Contact me for more advice and tips via a private note. I can help you out with some things.