Over the years, I have seen many people join my company looking for a second or even third career. They come from all walks of life—teachers, corporate executives, stay-at-home parents—and many are over 40. I’ve had a front-row seat to their journeys, and I can tell you without hesitation that starting a real estate career later in life is not only possible, it can be a significant advantage.
Many people think we work in the housing industry, but we are in the people business. Success isn’t determined by your age but by your ability to connect, communicate, and build trust. While younger agents might have more energy, agents starting after 40 bring something just as valuable to the table: life experience.
If you are considering making the switch, you probably have a lot of questions. Can you really start from scratch? Will you be able to keep up? Is it worth the risk? Let’s break down what it truly takes to succeed as a real estate agent when you’re starting after 40.
The Untapped Advantage of Life Experience
It’s easy to focus on the challenges of starting a new career, but let’s first talk about the powerful advantages you already possess. Many new agents who are younger struggle to build the credibility and trust that you have earned over decades.
You Have Wisdom and Perspective
Your life experience is your superpower. You have likely navigated complex negotiations, managed budgets, and dealt with a wide range of personalities in your previous career and personal life. This wisdom allows you to guide clients through the emotional and financial highs and lows of a real estate transaction with a calm, steady hand.
Furthermore, you may have bought or sold a property yourself. That firsthand experience as a client gives you a unique understanding of their fears, questions, and needs. You know what a good agent experience feels like, and you can model your business around that.
Your Network is Your Head Start
A new 22-year-old agent often has to build a network from scratch. You, on the other hand, have spent decades building relationships. Your network of former colleagues, friends, neighbors, and community contacts is an invaluable asset.
These are people who already know you, trust you, and respect you. When you announce your new career, you are not a stranger asking for business; you are a trusted friend offering a valuable service. Leveraging this established network is the single most important thing you can do to get your business off the ground quickly.
Navigating the Challenges of a New Career
Of course, starting a real estate career after 40 isn’t without its hurdles. Being aware of them is the first step to overcoming them. I have seen many agents join my company at a later age. Some have been incredibly successful, and some haven’t. The difference often comes down to knowing what you’re getting into and having a plan to tackle these specific challenges.
The Discipline of Being Your Own Boss
If you have never worked for yourself, the transition can be a shock. There is no one telling you when to show up, what to do, or how to spend your day. Running a business takes immense discipline. You have to be your own CEO, marketing department, and administrative assistant, all while serving your clients.
How to Overcome It: Create structure from day one. Set a schedule and stick to it. Block out time for prospecting, client follow-up, and market education. Find a mentor or an accountability partner who can help you stay on track.
Embracing Technology
This can be the one show-stopper for people who are not in tune with modern technology. Today, we leverage technology for almost every task, from managing client relationships in a CRM to marketing homes on social media and handling digital paperwork. The ability to learn and adapt to new tech is essential.
How to Overcome It: Don’t let it intimidate you. Start with the basics. Your brokerage should provide training on the essential systems. Lean on younger agents in your office for help. Watch tutorials, take online courses, and remember that you don’t have to become a tech genius overnight. You just have to be willing to learn.
The Skills That Truly Matter
While technology is a necessary tool, your success will ultimately hinge on timeless human skills.
Communication is always our number one asset. It is also the largest complaint consumers have about real estate agents. Clients want to be kept in the loop. They want their questions answered promptly and their concerns heard. If you can master effective, proactive communication, you will stand out from the competition and build a business based on glowing referrals.
Your First Steps to a New Career
If you feel this could be the right path for you, it’s time to move from thinking to doing. Here is a simple, three-step plan to get started.
- Get Your License: This is the first official step. You need to complete the required pre-licensing education and pass the state exam. A good real estate school can make all the difference. At Genesis Real Estate School, we can help guide you through the entire process.
- Find a Great Mentor: Don’t try to figure this business out on your own. Find an experienced agent or broker who is willing to take you under their wing. A mentor can help you avoid common mistakes and accelerate your learning curve dramatically.
- Get Going with a Plan: Once you are licensed and have chosen a brokerage, hit the ground running. Work with your mentor to create a 90-day business plan. What will you do every day to find clients? How will you let your network know about your new career? Success comes from intentional, consistent action.
Is It the Right Leap for You?
Starting a real estate career after 40 is a big decision, and it’s not for everyone. It requires a financial cushion to get started, a strong work ethic, and a genuine love for working with people.
If you find yourself on the fence, my best advice is to do some research. Talk to a few real estate professionals you know. Ask them about the best and worst parts of their job. Get a realistic picture of what a “day in the life” looks like.
After that, you have to decide for yourself if you should take the leap. Your age is not a barrier; it can be your greatest asset. If you are ready for a challenge and excited by the idea of building something for yourself, this just might be the most rewarding career move you ever make.