When recruiting new agents we are often asked if residential real estate sales can be done successfully on a part-time basis. Many folks see agents out there claiming to be real estate sales professionals while working as full-time soccer or little league moms or holding down other part-time or night shift jobs, or even full-time jobs and wondering if it can really be true. Well, the old 80/20 rule is alive and well; even in real estate. 20% of the licensed agents out there are handling 80% of the sales. The other 80% of the agents are mostly going through the motions and picking up a deal from time to time; or not at all.

I've put together some pros and cons associated with part-time real estate sales. Some folks are very capable of multi-tasking their careers, but it's not for everyone. Keep the following in mind when considering the very difficult and competitive business called Real Estate.

Part-Time Real Estate Can be a Good Way to Test The Waters:

Not sure about your choice of a new career? Keeping your old job with a steady income could definitely make it easier to transition into a real estate career. Starting out as a part-time agent could mean the difference between success and failure when commissions are slow in coming; and they usually are.

Some Agents Are Part Time All the Time:

Have you seen those folks out there that seem to be circus jugglers? You know, the ones seemingly able to handle a multitude of obligations and never break a sweat? They do exist but they are a rare breed. There are many real estate agents out there that have been part-time throughout their entire career. Some of them are single parents who can't handle full-time. Some, are business people using real estate as an adjunct to their already prosperous careers. It can be done, but the challenges are numerous as we'll outlined below.

Are You Organized Enough To Balance the Needs of Clients, Family and Possibly Another Employer?:

It will seem like your schedule never cooperates when balancing the needs of your buyer or seller prospects. Showing homes to buyers pretty much needs to be on their schedule if you want to keep them happy and eventually sell them something. With sellers, attending inspections, showings, closing meetings, etc., it can seem like everyone is working against your scheduling needs. It takes a real organized pro to handle it all. Some full-time real estate agents can't manage to keep it all straight.

Finding a Broker Willing To Take On a Part-Time Agent Can Be Difficult:

Brokers offer resources for agents like an office, telephone, receptionist, copy and fax machines and more. With some brokers where office space is at a premium, will not want to provide these things to a part-timer with an expected volume of business less than that of a full-time agent. Brokers want to staff their business with agents that can bring the highest possible volume of sales.

Vacation? Weekends Off? Forget About It:

With two or more careers, taking time off or taking quality time on a vacation will be very difficult. Unless you partner with another agent or team that will cover you when you're off, you're pretty much stuck covering all the bases yourself. Seven day work weeks will be the norm.

Your Commission Will Usually Be Split More Often:

If you are serious about making a go of it on a part-time basis, you'll most likely be getting support from other agents to help you keep up with your busy schedule. Be prepared to split that commission to compensate your partners fairly when they do fill in for you.