However, income is never consistent and must be budgeted to allow for wide variations in time and amount of earnings. Agents' reputation for integrity and service will be the key determining factor in their success. A few agents work on a part time basis while they learn the business, or to provide a second income source. There is no set pattern for hours of work or number of working days per week. Agents can expect to work on weekends and evenings to accommodate the diverse needs of their customers.
Fringe benefits are relatively meager since most agents are independent contractors.
Vacations are usually not compensated and are normally taken during slack periods. The growth-rate for this occupation is projected to be on a par with all other occupations during the next ten years. Advancement Becoming a real estate broker is the typical career path for Real Estate Agents. Many of them join the National Association of Realtors as associate members. Agents may also advance to the positions of sales, training, operations, and office manager.