Is Real Estate a Great Second Career?

Can you spot the $207,744 difference between these identical homes?

Financing is the difference!

Get the details in The 62+ Loan Homebuyers Guide.

55places Mortgage is a joint venture between Mutual of Omaha Mortgage and 55places.com.
Details here.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get Weekly Updates

I agree that 55places and its affiliates, partner providers or agents may call, text, or email me about my inquiry, which may be made with automated means. I understand that my consent is not a prerequisite for buying a property. I may revoke my consent at any time by contacting optout@55places.com. Message/data rates may apply. I also agree to 55places.com’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Active adults looking to earn more money in retirement should consider options in real estate.

Some active adults decide to keep working after retirement. They may consider a second career like becoming a real estate agent because of the flexible hours and potential to earn additional income. Becoming a real estate agent after retirement also provides a social outlet for retirees to stay active and engaged with other people. You may want to decide if you have the passion, skills, and time before choosing this path. Here are a few things to consider if you decide to become a real estate agent.

Real Estate Courses

In order to become a real estate agent, retirees must take a real estate course. Real estate courses are usually offered at community colleges by your local real estate board or online. Tuition for real estate courses varies for each state. These classes will help you understand everything about the real estate business and give you the proper tools for the trade. A previous college background may be required before becoming a real estate agent. Some states require a certain amount of hours of education.

Application Requirements 

Every state has different application requirements as well as application fees for the licensing test. Fees can range anywhere from $200 to $500 or more so expect some out-of-pocket costs when considering this career. Some states require you to submit fingerprints and pass a background check. Another thing to consider is that the application process may take weeks and must be completed before you can register or schedule your exam date. Once all of the paperwork is sorted out, the next step would be to apply and take the real estate licensing test conducted by your state.

Finding a Broker 

Once you’ve passed the real estate licensing exam, you should speak with different real estate brokers and agencies so you can practice real estate under the sponsorship of the broker. It’s important to consider which broker fits with your needs. Larger real estate agencies may offer ongoing education classes that help realtors stay current on the latest industry trends and tools, such as using computers and mobile apps, setting up social media accounts to sell homes or demonstrating how to hold an open house.

Benefits of Career in Real Estate

The benefits of becoming a real estate agent after retirement means you are essentially your own boss. You can make your own hours and work as little or as much as you want. The extra income is a bonus that allows retirees to live a more comfortable lifestyle. Retirees can also benefit from a real estate career because it allows them to be more active by getting them out of the house and socialize with different people. Becoming a real estate agent after retirement allows retirees to engage with homebuyers and share stories of past experiences in homeownership as well as be their guide on a new home buying journey.

Can you spot the $207,744 difference between these identical homes?

Financing is the difference!

Get the details in The 62+ Loan Homebuyers Guide.

55places Mortgage is a joint venture between Mutual of Omaha Mortgage and 55places.com.
Details here.

We're here to help! (800) 928-2055

Call us to speak with a customer service representative.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get Weekly Updates

I agree that 55places and its affiliates, partner providers or agents may call, text, or email me about my inquiry, which may be made with automated means. I understand that my consent is not a prerequisite for buying a property. I may revoke my consent at any time by contacting optout@55places.com. Message/data rates may apply. I also agree to 55places.com’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

A 55+ woman playing on the beach with her dog in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Dog-Friendly Retirement Near Myrtle Beach: Top 55+ Communities With Dog Parks

We rounded up the active adult communities with dog parks in the Myrtle Beach-Wilmington area to help start your search for the best neighborhood to call home. Keep reading to discover more of the best pet-friendly communities, attractions, and activities near Myrtle Beach, SC and Wilmington, NC.

55places News banner over a smiling 55+ couple shaking hands with a real estate agent.

Real Estate Commission Changes: What It Means for 55+ Homebuyers and Sellers

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently wrapped up some big lawsuits accusing them and brokerages of keeping real estate commissions sky-high. But how (if at all) will it change the process for 55+ homebuyers and sellers? 55places is here to give you a complete picture of the changes on the horizon.

About 55places

We’re changing the way people 55 and older are searching for their perfect next place. With a national network of hand-selected real estate experts, plus comprehensive information, unbiased content, and on-the-go insight about thousands of communities across the country, we’re a trusted resource paving the way from here to home. Whether you’re interested in a low-maintenance single-level residence, an active lifestyle or age-qualified community, an intimate enclave, or anything in between, we can help you make your next move the best one yet.

Scroll to Top