Earnings will vary widely among agents because of the geographic area in which they work and the amount of time and energy put into the job. 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. Normal work-weeks are 40 to 48 hours. A few agents work on a part-time basis while they learn the business, or to provide a second income source.
Fringe benefits are relatively meager since most agents are independent contractors.
Vacations are usually not compensated and are normally taken during slack periods. 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. All applicants for the license must be at least 18 years old and must pass an examination administered by the California Department of Real Estate. There is also an educational requirement for a real estate license, which consists of a college-level course in real estate principles plus two additional courses approved by the Department of Real Estate.