I was wondering, as an aspiring agent, who is about to embark on a hopefully successful real estate career...what does everyone here deduct for expenses/tax purposes..?

My advice would be to save every business receipt and make an appointment with a CPA. I keep my credit card bills since I inevitably lose some receipts and they are a good record of expenses. Make a habit of recording check numbers, dates and amounts. If you pay cash for something, make a note and include as many details as you can. Also keep a log of other expenses and of your auto related expenses and miles.

Most people here likely will not tell you what to deduct, since there is potential associated liability and since your situation is unique (everyones' is). I won't offer advice on what to deduct either, but tell you the better records you keep, the better your business will be and when your CPA appointment comes up, you will be ready.

Also---spend wisely. I always ask myself..How is this expense going to pay me back? I scrutinize my own answers and think of cheaper ways to get the same result. Sometimes I delay or cancel expenses if I can't prove their worth. You have to be penny wise as a business person. Just some more free advice.

Good luck on your new career. Did you sign on with CB?

I am signing with CB on Monday...looking forward to it and thanks for your advice.
Can one deduct office expenses for a home type of office, mileage,cell phone ( blackberry)....?

Your Accountant/CPA may have a publication titled something like "Rules of Thumb" for each of the professions, and provides guidance for accountants in what expenses are expected to appear in any operation, and what the IRS considers to be "usual and customary" levels relative to your income, and will hopefully fend off an audit.