Do Most New Agents in MN Go Full-Time Right Away?

by | Oct 9, 2025 | Starting a Real Estate Career

As you consider the progression of new real estate agents in Minnesota, it’s clear that most don’t jump into full-time roles immediately. Financial pressures, alongside the need for a stable client base, often lead agents to start part-time while juggling other jobs. This trend raises questions about the challenges they face and the factors that influence their shift. What does this mean for the future of real estate in the state?

Reasons for Part-Time Status Among New Agents

While many new agents in Minnesota may aspire to full-time careers in real estate, several factors contribute to their part-time status.

Licensing requirements demand a significant time investment, and the absence of mandatory training allows for flexible entry into the field. This part-time flexibility attracts individuals exploring career options without fully committing to real estate. Additionally, the average earnings for agents in Minnesota are approximately $78,217(average earnings), which can be a motivating factor for those who are not yet ready to rely solely on their real estate income.

Many agents supplement their income, often maintaining other jobs until their real estate earnings stabilize. Additionally, fluctuating market demand in certain regions means not all new agents can generate sufficient business for full-time work. The residential real estate industry is characterized as part-time for many agents, making it understandable that new agents might choose to work part-time as they build their careers.

With nearly half of agents selling few or no homes annually, part-time status provides a viable pathway for gradual career exploration and adaptation to the real estate environment.

Financial Challenges of Transitioning to Full-Time

Transitioning to a full-time career in real estate presents significant financial challenges for new agents in Minnesota, primarily due to income volatility and the burden of ongoing business costs.

Income uncertainty stems from commission fluctuations, as earnings only materialize upon closing deals. With around 23% of agents anticipating declining commissions, financial predictability diminishes.

Furthermore, upfront expenses, including licensing fees and marketing costs, accumulate even in the absence of sales. The current low housing inventory and high mortgage rates further limit your transaction opportunities, prolonging income gaps.

As you endeavor to build a client base, the pressure of competing against established agents can exacerbate these financial strains, increasing the risk of burnout and premature exit from the industry. Additionally, establishing a Solo 401(k) allows for significant tax-deferred growth, helping to mitigate some of these financial pressures.

Training and Market Factors Influencing Full-Time Employment

Maneuvering the complexities of full-time employment in real estate involves not just financial challenges but also a robust understanding of training and market fluctuations.

New agents benefit greatly from broker support, which includes thorough onboarding and ongoing mentorship programs. These programs help you acquire necessary skills while adapting to market changes. Additionally, completing the required courses equips new agents with essential knowledge before entering the workforce. Moreover, effective communication is crucial for building trust with clients during this transition.

However, local conditions—like inventory levels and buyer demand—often dictate your shift timeline. Many agents initially juggle real estate with other jobs, delaying full-time commitments until they establish a sustainable client base.

Training intensity varies by brokerage, but access to resources, such as sales meetings and tech training, can enhance your readiness to engage full-time. Ultimately, your success hinges on both training and market responsiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Qualities Make a Successful Full-Time Real Estate Agent in Minnesota?

To succeed as a full-time real estate agent in Minnesota, you need strong time management skills and effective communication. These key qualities enable you to handle transactions efficiently and build lasting client relationships, driving your success forward.

How Long Does It Typically Take New Agents to Go Full-Time?

Typically, new agents take 6 to 24 months for a full-time shift, driven by market conditions and agent readiness. Many aim for financial stability and client growth before committing fully to the real estate profession.

Are There Specific Brokerages That Support Full-Time Transitions Better?

Yes, certain brokerages excel in providing robust brokerage support and effective change strategies. They offer structured training, mentorship, and financial safety nets, ensuring new agents have the important resources needed for a successful full-time career shift.

What Resources Are Available for Networking as a New Agent?

As a new agent, you’ll find valuable networking events through local associations and online forums. Engaging in these opportunities fosters connections, enhances your market knowledge, and builds significant relationships within Minnesota’s real estate community.

How Do New Agents Find Their First Clients in Minnesota?

New agents in Minnesota leverage client acquisition strategies through networking, tapping into local market insights, and utilizing online marketing. Engaging with community events and digital platforms helps you connect with potential clients effectively.

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