Decoding ‘Now Hiring’ Ads: What They Really Mean for Aspiring Real Estate Agents

Becoming a real estate agent can sound like the ultimate dream job. So you might find yourself intrigued by the “Now Hiring!” sign on a local broker’s window, or an ad they place online.

Before you get too excited, there’s something you should know…
Much like the word “cozy” is an agent’s polite way of describing a small house, brokers, managers, and recruiters tend to have some words that might make things sound better than they are in reality.

Let’s take a look at a typical ad, full of enticing promises:

Sounds pretty great, right? The type of ad that makes you think, “Wow, I could do that!” But wait—before you go grab your keys and jump into the nearest training program, let’s break down what they actually mean by decoding what they mean in that fake (but fairly accurate) list of promises brokers often make in their ad:

1) No Experience Needed!

Translation: That’s right! You don’t need experience in real estate to get started… just a love for paperwork, long hours, and dealing with people who think Zillow is a magic 8-ball for pricing.

But you’ll quickly learn that experience—and a ton of training—is the difference between success and total overwhelm. (Oh, and you might constantly be having to address how much experience you have with potential clients for the first 5-7 years before people stop asking and feel like you have enough of it.)

2) Flexible Hours – YOU Control Your Schedule!

Translation: Sure, if by “flexible” you mean you’re available when buyers and sellers need you—24/7. You won’t have a 9-to-5, but you’re also not necessarily living life on your own terms. Be prepared to work nights, weekends, and anytime your clients decide it’s convenient to call or text you.

3) Earn UP TO $100,000 in your FIRST YEAR with Unlimited Earning Potential!

Translation: “Up to” is the key phrase here. Could it happen? Sure. Is it likely? Not really. Most new agents will struggle to reach that number in their first year—or even their fifth year! Making six figures is certainly possible, but for many agents, it’s a distant dream, not a guarantee no matter how many years they’ve been in business.

4) Work From Anywhere!

Translation: Not only is this an option (as they make it sound), but it’s also a requirement! You WILL work from anywhere. But mostly in your car or at the kitchen counter while you scarf down dinner between showings.

Heck, you can even find yourself working poolside at an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean while on vacation! So make sure that the wi-fi and copy machine are part of the all-inclusive before you book your trip… if you somehow manage to take a proper vacay.

5) Work With Different People All The Time—No Workday Is The Same!

Translation: This one’s actually pretty spot on. You’ll meet tons of new people—some will become long-term clients, while others will disappear on you like they entered the witness protection program after spending months helping them without ever buying or selling a house with you.

Your day will never look the same, but sometimes that means dealing with clients who flake, buyers who change their minds, or sellers who don’t understand why their house isn’t flying off the market at their asking price.

6) Be Your Own Boss!

Translation: Technically true, but let’s be honest: you’re still working for your clients. You’re also subject to whatever whims buyers, sellers, and their random “advisors” (a.k.a. parents or distant relatives) decide to throw your way. Being your own boss in real estate means you’re in charge of your success—and also at the mercy of everyone else’s schedule and expectations.

7) Help Make Dreams Come True!

Translation: Sometimes. Other times, you’ll be helping clients mediate petty arguments over paint colors, or explaining why a $200K budget can’t land them the 4-bedroom mansion they’re imagining. Your “dream-making” ability will often involve a lot of managing expectations and helping clients understand reality.

But hey, when you do close a deal, it does feel like making a dream come true… for everyone involved.

None of this is to say you shouldn’t become an agent, because it can be an extremely fun and rewarding career! It just means that not only should you read the fine print before signing up to become an agent, you should also read between the lines as well.