Some universities, colleges and junior colleges offer an associate of bachelor's degree with a major in real estate. As real estate transactions have become more legally complex many firms have turned to college graduates to fill positions. Their knowledge of local neighborhoods is a clear advantage. Most states require candidates for the general sales license to complete between 30 and 90 hours of classroom instruction. Those seeking a broker's license need between 60 and 90 hours of formal training and a specific amount of experience selling real estate, usually one to three years.
Brokers look for applicants who possess a pleasant personality, honesty, and a neat appearance.
They often work evenings and weekends, and are always on call to suit the needs of clients. Business is usually slower during the winter season. Much of the agent's time is spent away from the office showing properties to customers, analyzing properties for sale, or researching the state of the market. Employment of real estate agents and brokers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2008. Employment growth in this field will stem primarily from increased demand for home purchases and rental units.