Super makes a good point about the entrepreneurial personality. Someone who doesn't have it will never understand why anyone would want to go into business for themselves, or "approve" of what it takes to do so. There's nothing wrong with that mindset - it's just different from those of us who love the idea of making our own fortunes on our own steam.

Even if you have been successful at everything else you've done, there will be people who think if you don't get a regular paycheck for your efforts, you're taking too much risk with your finances.

I always ask the question "What would David Hasselhoff do." Sometimes you have to channel your inner Hasselhoff. The Hoff will not lead you down the wrong way.

And the Hoff says "JUMP IN MY CAR"

What I have found is that people who work regular 9-5 jobs are envious of self employed people. So, they tell you you're nuts to give up that "reliable" income.
I say if you want to...do it! You'll learn really quick if you love it or hate it!
You get out of it what you put in to it. I have a friend who works from noon to about 4:00. She's had some really good years with these hours, and now that the economy is down, so is her income. But she still does not work any additional time but 12-4.
I, myself, work my a## off. Yep, I'm the nutty one who is available when my clients need me, evenings and weekends. My family is great. Husband fixes dinner when I can't and daughter cleans house when I can't. But in exchange, they each get to buy something with every closing. Working toward an Ipod Touch for my daughter and a new pickup for my husband. So, ya, they don't mind.
Plus, I take them with me sometimes when I preview. This is something they REALLY enjoy!

There are times ALL jobs suck! Mine just sucks less!

i confide in chuck norris

chuck decides what he wants to do and the world lines up the actions to make it happen.

There will always be those that question your decisions. And who cares what they think!! I left a 50K a year job, full benefit package and 13 years seniority. Everyone thought I was nuts. That was 19 years ago and I've never looked back. I would also add that I've never been at that low an income level since. BTY, 2 years after I left the company sold to an out of state company and laid off 1500 folks. Now who's the nut? One thing about real estate is you set your own limits, there's no ceiling on your income (and no floor), but you're in control of both. Ditch the mind set that you need the validation of others cause you don't!! Set your goals and never stop working towards them.

Can I be successful at this RE business and set realistic limits on the evening and weekend workloads?

I am willing to work evenings and weekends, but being able to set limits to remain a family person would be ideal.

So many people do have a good point when they say most the work is weekends and evenings.

Realistically what are looking at in terms of evening and weekend workload?

I asked last week if you had prepared for or taken the Real Estate Examination.

That would be a good first step, and DOES NOT require much of a commitment; but would get that hurtle out of the way.

Whether you decide to pursue this endeavor or not, preparing for and taking the Exam will be a valuable experience, and more productive than this continuous analysis of how profitable this profession might be and whether it will be a good fit for you.

Maybe you've taken the Examination ?

But please do not hurtle through your exam hurdle; you are likely to miss something and make one or more mistakes.



Folks, mark today down. I caught Vermont mixing up his homophones!

That hurts . . . . and your comment makes it too late to go back and edit it now. I guess I'll get over it. Thanks for reading ever so carefully; keeps one on their toes!

You can set all the limits you want, it's your business. But, it really boils down to how hungry you get for business.

People buying houses usually have jobs! The vast majority of those jobs are M-F 9-5. It's not realistic to expect them to take off work to house hunt. However, what you can do is limit it to Saturday's only, and maybe exclude a week-night as family time only.

I, myself, am taking this whole weekend off! I need a break! But of course, if someone calls wanting to see one of my listings, that too may change!

Good luck!

That's what The Hoff wood say!

Originally Posted By: Vermont

I asked last week if you had prepared for or taken the Real Estate Examination.

That would be a good first step, and DOES NOT require much of a commitment; but would get that hurtle out of the way.

Whether you decide to pursue this endeavor or not, preparing for and taking the Exam will be a valuable experience, and more productive than this continuous analysis of how profitable this profession might be and whether it will be a good fit for you.

Maybe you've taken the Examination ?

I apoligize.

You took the time to address my concerns and I never responded back appropriately.
I am preparing for the first examination and scheduled in two weeks time.

I am also taking additional courses with my ( possibly ) future broker that he is offering me every week, and also learning as much about homes as I can. Plumbing, electrical, insulating...

I have alot of knowledge of homes renovations and can tell if any work has been done correctly, or at least have the necessary tools to explore that possibilty.

I am volunteering at the hospital once a week.

I've oganized a group to petition Darien Lake to put in place better recycling ( as I saw NONE when I was there ).

I am also organizing a blood donor clinic and have 128 people attending with me so far for sept 1st. Our goal is to have all these people donate every second month on the first. Maybe we'll maintain our group, maybe we'll grow. But these people are on my facebook and will see my efforts wether they continue or not.

I also am currently working on a date for a sick kids golf charity event next summer which can hold 144 golfers and charitable donations from as many sponsors I can reach.

I would also like to put a temporary winch line at a local hill where families toboggan and serve hot chocolate one day. I'm hoping to have a mic. and a sled building contest which will be announced on the radio( city bylaws are a tough one; may not happen )

I am also one of few who hold a valid black belt in Brazilian Jui Jitsu here in Ontario and am offered a spot on the board.

My club ( not mine; the one i belong too ) is expanding to MMA and I already have blogs slowly building.

Basically, I have a very active marketing plan!

I know I will succeed whatever I do! I just look to you guys for some support.

Is it a big deal I ask a few questions?

I don't find it a little commitment. It's HUGE!

I thought my questions were very valid,,,and BTW. You never even answered me!

I personally am very excited about RE and the connection it affords with the community.

My wife however is concerned about our personal connection being side lined.

The difference between 30k and 100k may be total commitment and 95%.

I'm just asking questions. If you don't want to answer, DON'T! But know that my concerns are valid and if you do have something to offer I'd GREATLY appreciate it!

Good luck, 295 and welcome to the wonderful world of Real Estate, your tenacity will serve you well!