The Role a General Estate Agent in Real Estate Transactions

The Role a General Estate Agent in Real Estate Transactions

What is the General Agent?

A general agent is an individual or company who has the authority to act on behalf of another person or entity in various business transactions. In the context of real estate, a general agent is someone who is authorized to represent a client in a wide range of activities related to buying or selling property.

General agents usually have broad authority in making decisions and entering into contracts on behalf their clients. This can involve negotiating with buyers and/or sellers, handling the paperwork, real estate special agent and overseeing all aspects of the transaction. General agents are commonly used in real property transactions where the client might not be able be present for each step of process, or if they want someone to handle details.

The scope of authority is a key difference between general agents and special agents. While a special agent is typically appointed for a specific task or limited period of time, a general agent has more comprehensive authority to act on behalf of their client in a variety of situations.

A general agent can play a vital role in real estate transactions, acting as a representative of their client and ensuring the process runs smoothly. Their knowledge, negotiation skills, and experience can make all the difference to the outcome of any real estate transaction.

Definition of general agents in the real estate business

A general agent in the real estate industry is a representative with the authority to act for their principal on a wide range of real estate matters.

A general agent is more powerful than a special representative, who is restricted to specific tasks or transactions. They have the power to enter contracts, negotiate deals, make decisions, and act on behalf of the principal within their authority.

This authority is typically granted through a written agreement, such as a property management contract or a power of attorney, which outlines the specific duties and responsibilities of the general agent.

General agents have a key role to play in the realty industry. They facilitate transactions, oversee properties, and represent clients’ interests on a variety of legal and financial issues.

They must act in the best interests of their principal, exercise good judgment, and follow all laws and regulations governing real estate transactions.

General agents are trusted advisers and advocates who help their clients navigate the complexities that exist in the real-estate market. They can achieve their desired goals with confidence and peace.

There are different types of agents who work in the real estate industry.


General Agent:

1. A general real estate agent has broad authority and can act in various matters on behalf of their principal.

2. They typically handle every aspect of a real-estate transaction, from listing properties to negotiating deals and handling the closing.

3. General agents are employed by many real estate brokerages. They have the power to bind principals to agreements and contracts.

4. Should you liked this post along with you wish to acquire guidance concerning simply click the following internet page kindly stop by our own web site. They must always act in their client’s best interests and have a fiduciary responsibility to do so.

5. General agents have the right to make decisions in the name of the principal and without obtaining their approval for every action.

6. They are treated with high levels of trust and responsibilities in real estate deals.

7. General agents are usually appointed via a formal agreement outlining their duties.


Other Types Agents:

1. Special Agent: A special agent in real estate has limited authority to act on behalf of the principal for specific tasks or transactions.

2. Transaction Broker: A transaction broker in real estate facilitates a transaction between buyers and sellers but does not represent either party exclusively.

3. Dual Agents: Dual agents represent both the buyer and the seller in an estate transaction. This can create conflicts of interest.

4. Subagent – A subagent acts as an agent for an agent, and represents the principal in a chained relationship of agency.

5. Buyer’s Agent – A buyer’s representative represents the interests of a buyer in a real estate deal and works exclusively for the buyer.

6. Seller’s Representative: A seller’s representative represents a seller’s interests in a transaction of real estate and works exclusively to the seller’s benefit.

7. These other types of agents may have a more limited range of authority than general agents, and may not have as much decision-making power.

Duties, Responsibilities and Obligations


Duties & Responsibilities Of A General Agent In Real Estate

As a general agent in real estate, you have a wide range of duties and responsibilities that are essential to the success of your business. These duties include:

1. Marketing and Advertising: One of the primary responsibilities of a general agent is to market and advertise properties effectively. This includes creating listings, promoting properties on various platforms, and attracting potential buyers or renters.

2. Prospecting and Networking: Another important duty is prospecting for new clients and networking with other industry professionals. Attending events, building relationships and expanding your clientele are all part of this.

3. Client Services: It is important to provide excellent customer services in real estate. As a general agent you will be assisting clients with buying, renting, or selling properties. You will also answer their questions and guide them throughout the process.

4. General agents are responsible to negotiate deals on behalf their clients. This includes securing a good price for a home, handling offers and successfully closing the transaction.

5. Legal Compliance: Ensuring that all transactions comply with legal regulations and requirements is another key responsibility. To protect their clients and to avoid legal issues, general agents must be familiar with real estate laws and regulations.

6. Market Analysis: Analyzing market trends and property values is essential for general agents. By staying informed of the market, general agents can provide informed advice to their clients and make strategic choices.

7. General agents are also responsible for administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments, maintaining records, and paperwork. This ensures smooth operations and good organization in their business.

8. Continuous Learning: To stay competitive in the real estate industry, general agents must continue learning and updating their skills. This includes attending training sessions and seminars as well as obtaining certifications.

Overall, general agents have a wide range of duties and responsibilities in the real estate industry. General agents can succeed in the competitive market for real estate by fulfilling their responsibilities.

Negotiating on behalf of clients

Negotiating deals for clients is a key part of the job of a real estate general agent. To get the best deal for clients, you need a combination of good communication skills, market expertise, and strategic thinking.

A general agent’s main responsibility is to represent the interests of their clients during negotiations with buyers and sellers, as well as other parties involved in a transaction. This involves working to understand the clients’ objectives and needs, and achieving the best outcome possible for them.

When negotiating deals it is important that you have a complete understanding of the local market, including trends, pricing and competition. This knowledge enables the agent to position clients’ properties efficiently and make informed negotiations.

Effective communication also becomes essential during negotiations. A general agent should be able communicate clearly the needs and preferences of their clients, and respond to counter-offers and offers in a timely manner.

Moreover, the ability to think strategically and creatively can give a general agent an edge during negotiations. This can involve finding creative ways of sweetening the deal or coming up unique solutions for obstacles.

Overall, negotiating deals on behalf of clients as a general agent in real estate requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and experience. A general agent can achieve their clients’ real estate objectives and secure the best deals by mastering the skill of negotiation.

Ensure that all legal requirements during transactions are met

It is essential that the general agent in realty ensures all legal requirements in transactions are met. Both the agent and client involved in the deal will be protected. To begin this process, it is essential to be familiar with all laws and regulations applicable to real estate in the specific region where the agent works.

This includes being aware of any licensing requirements for practicing real estate in that particular jurisdiction, as well as any laws related to property transfers, disclosure requirements, and other legal considerations.

Agents also need to be proactive, ensuring all necessary documents are in order and all parties involved in a transaction are fully aware of their rights. It is important to ensure that all contracts are properly written and executed and that any conflicts of interest are disclosed.

Agents must also be diligent in their communication with clients, keeping them informed of any developments in the transaction and advising them on the best course of action to ensure compliance with all legal requirements.

Agents must also be prepared for any legal issues or disputes which may arise during the process of a transaction. This may involve working with legal counsel, negotiating with other parties involved in the transaction, or taking other steps to resolve the issue in a timely and satisfactory manner.

In summary, ensuring all legal requirements are met during transactions as a general agent in real estate requires a combination of knowledge, diligence, communication, and problem-solving skills. By staying informed, proactive, and responsive to potential legal issues, agents can help protect their clients and ensure smooth and successful real estate transactions.

Expert advice on market trends, property values and other aspects

For any general agent working in the industry, it is vital to be able provide expert guidance on market trends as well as property values. This knowledge allows agents in the real estate industry to better serve their clientele by assisting them with making informed decisions regarding buying and selling properties.

Staying on top of the latest real estate statistics and data is crucial to being able to provide expert advice. This includes analyzing such factors as supply and demand. interest rates, and other economic indicators that may impact property values.

Agents must have a strong understanding of the market in which their business is conducted. This includes understanding zoning, school districts and other factors affecting property values.

Agents must be able to provide detailed advice when it comes time to value a property. This includes assessing how a property compares to other similar properties and evaluating any recent renovations.

Agents must have excellent communication skills in addition to a thorough understanding of the market and its trends. This includes the ability to clearly explain market concepts to clients, and help them to understand their reasoning behind their recommendation.

Any general agent in real estate must be able to give expert advice about market trends and the value of properties. By staying informed, having a good understanding of the local market, and possessing strong communication skills, agents can help their clients make smart and successful real estate decisions.

Building Client Relationships

In this competitive real estate industry, it is important to build client relationships. As a real estate agent, you must build rapport and trust with clients to win their loyalty and ensure repeat business.

Effective communication is a key way to build strong relationships with clients. It is important to be responsive to clients’ inquiries, keep them informed about market trends and developments affecting their property, as well as listen to their concerns.

Another important aspect of building client relationships is demonstrating expertise and professionalism. Clients look for someone who is familiar with the real estate industry, understands their requirements, and can offer valuable guidance and insight during the entire buying or selling procedure.

It is also important to show genuine care and concern for clients. It is important to take the time to understand their needs and preferences, and to be proactive in helping them reach their real estate goals.

As a general real estate agent, it is important to be patient, dedicated, and willing go the extra mile. By providing exceptional service, being a trusted advisor, and maintaining open lines of communication, you can establish long-lasting relationships that will benefit both you and your clients in the long run.

Communication with clients is key to understanding their needs

Effective communication is key to understanding the needs of your clients and providing them with the best service. As a general agent it is crucial to establish a clear line of communication with your clients from the beginning.

Active listening is a key element of effective communication. This means that you should listen to what your client has to say, and not just wait for your turn. Listening to your clients can help you gain a deeper understanding of their preferences and needs.

In order to clarify any uncertainty or gather more details, it is also important to pose questions. This shows your client that you’re actively involved in the conversation and committed to meeting their requirements.

When communicating with your clients, you should use language that’s easy to understand. Avoid using realty terms or technical terms, which could confuse the client. Explain things in simple terms so that the client understands.

Another important aspect of effective communication is empathy. Put yourself in their shoes and try understanding their perspective. You can create a positive relationship with your client by showing empathy.

Lastly, it is important to follow up with clients regularly to ensure that their needs are being met. This shows your client that you are committed to their business and value it.

In conclusion, effective communication is essential in the real estate industry in order to understand clients’ needs and provide them with the best possible service. By asking questions, using a clear language, demonstrating empathy, and regularly following up, you can meet your clients’ needs while building strong relationships.

Developing rapport and trust to maintain longterm relationship

As a real estate agent, developing trust and rapport is crucial to building long-term client relationships. Trust is the basis of all successful relationships. It is impossible to build a prosperous and healthy partnership without it.

Effective communication with clients is one of the most effective ways to establish client trust. Communication that is open and honest will help you build rapport with your clients and demonstrate to them that they are in your best interest. Listening to their needs and concerns, as well as providing regular updates and feedback, helps to create a sense of transparency and reliability.

In order to build trust, it is important to demonstrate expertise and professionalism. Clients want an agent who has experience, is knowledgeable and can guide them through the complexities in the real estate market. By staying informed on market conditions, pricing strategies, and the legal requirements of your state, you will be able to give your clients the confidence they need.

Being consistent and reliable in your interactions with customers is another important aspect of building trust and rapport. Showing up promptly, keeping your commitments, and always being available to address questions or concerns can all help to build a good relationship with clients. Over time, trust is built through a series small actions. It is therefore important to be reliable and diligent in your dealings.

It is important to be sensitive and understanding when it comes to the needs and concerns of clients. The process of buying or selling a house is a big decision in a client’s life. They may feel a variety of emotions. By demonstrating empathy and genuine care for the client’s well-being, it is possible to build a strong relationship with them and foster trust.

As a general agent, building trust and rapport are essential to maintaining long-term relationships. By prioritizing communication, expertise and dependability in your interactions with clients you can build a foundation of trust which will help to sustain successful relationships for years to come.

Acting as the client’s representative on all real estate matters

Acting as a representative for clients in all real estate matters as a general agent involves a variety of responsibilities and duties.

One of the main roles of a general agent in real estate is to act on behalf of clients during the buying or selling process.

This includes negotiating deals, drafting contracts, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met.

General agents are required to have a thorough knowledge of the real estate industry and to stay abreast of current trends.

In order to effectively represent clients’ interests, they need to have excellent communication abilities.

In addition to handling transactions, general agents may also provide advice and guidance to clients on matters such as property valuation and market analysis.

They often work with other professionals in the real estate industry, such a brokers, appraisers and attorneys to ensure their clients get accurate and complete information.

In general, acting as a real estate general agent requires professionalism, attention for detail, and a dedication to serving clients’ best interests.

General agents are vital in helping clients to navigate the complex world that is real estate transactions.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

General agents in the real estate industry play a key role in representing clients during various transactions. There are a number of key factors general agents need to keep in mind when it comes down to ethical and legal considerations. This will ensure that they are acting in their client’s best interest.

The duty of loyalty owed to clients is one of the most important legal considerations that general agents must consider. Agents must always act in their client’s best interest and avoid any conflict of interest that may compromise their ability represent their clients effectively. This duty obliges agents to disclose potential conflict of interests to their clients and get their consent before completing any transaction.

A duty of diligence is also an important legal consideration. This requires that agents represent their clients with care and diligence. This includes conducting thorough searches on properties, providing accurate data to clients, as well as ensuring that all documents are properly filled out and filed.

General agents in real estate must also adhere to ethical standards. Agents are required to act in a transparent and honest manner with their clients. This includes providing them with relevant information, and advising on the best possible course of action depending on their specific needs and circumstances.

Agents also have to respect their clients’ rights and confidentiality, keeping their information private and only releasing it when needed to complete the transaction. This includes protecting the financial information of clients, their property details, or any other sensitive data that may be shared in the course a transaction.

In general, real estate agents must navigate a complicated legal and ethical landscape in order to represent their clients as best they can. By adhering to their duties of honesty, loyalty, and confidentiality agents can develop strong relationships with their customers and help them achieve real estate goals.

Maintaining confidentiality and loyalty towards clients

Maintaining loyalty and confidentiality to clients in the role as a general real estate agent is of the highest importance. By maintaining confidentiality and acting in the client’s best interest, it is important to build trust.

Confidentiality is crucial in this profession as clients often share sensitive information about their financial situation, personal preferences, and future plans. The general agent has a duty to keep the information private and secure and only disclose it when necessary.

By showing loyalty towards clients, a general representative shows that they are dedicated to representing their best interests above all. This means putting the client’s needs first, even if it may not be in the agent’s best interest.

Throughout all phases of the real estate transaction process – from initial consultations to closing – a general agent should maintain confidentiality while remaining loyal to their client. This builds a strong foundation of trust and ensures that the client feels supported and valued.

As a general agent, maintaining confidentiality and loyalty is not only a professional obligation, but also a moral responsibility. By putting clients’ needs and privacy first, agents are able to maintain a positive image and build long-lasting relationships based on integrity and trust.

Real estate transactions are governed by state laws.

General agents in the real estate business must adhere to state laws and regulations that govern real estate transactions.

– State laws vary from one jurisdiction to another, so it is essential for a general agent to stay updated on the specific laws and regulations in their area.

– Failure to comply with state laws can result in serious consequences, such as fines, license suspension, or even legal action.

One of the most important responsibilities of an agent general is to make sure that all transactions follow the law.

This includes ensuring all necessary paperwork and documents are properly completed and filed. It also ensures that all parties involved with the transaction know their rights, responsibilities and special agent in real estate obligations.

General agents should also be aware that fair housing laws prohibit discrimination against people based on their race, religion or family status.

– General agents are required to adhere to the state laws and any local regulations.

This can include guidelines for ethical conduct as well as requirements for continuing education to maintain licensure.

In general, staying in compliance is essential for agents to protect their clients and the integrity within the real estate market.

Ensure all transactions are conducted professionally and ethically


To ensure that all real estate transactions are conducted ethically, professionally and with integrity as a general representative in the industry involves:

1. Upholding the highest standards of honesty and integrity in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and other parties involved in the transaction.

2. You must adhere to all applicable laws and regulations, including those governing fair housing and disclosure requirements.

3. Maintaining the confidentiality of client data and ensuring that sensitive data is handled safely and responsibly.

4. Transparency with clients regarding potential conflicts of interests and taking steps to mitigate them to ensure a fair, impartial transaction.

5. Providing accurate and unbiased information to clients to help them make informed decisions, and refraining from engaging in any misleading or deceptive practices.

6. Communication is key. Keep all parties informed and address any concerns or issues promptly.

7. Respecting rights and interest of all parties, and treating each with courtesy.

8. Continuously improving knowledge and skills by undergoing ongoing education and continuing training to stay up to date with industry trends and best practice.

9. Working collaboratively with other professionals in the industry, such as appraisers, inspectors, and lenders, to ensure a smooth and successful transaction for all parties.

10. Maintaining a positive reputation in the community by consistently delivering exceptional service and demonstrating a commitment to ethical conduct in all aspects of the business.

Education and Licensing


Educational Requirements and Licensing for General Agent in Real Estate

In order to pursue a career in real estate as a general broker, you will need to meet certain requirements. In order to become a successful general agent, individuals must first obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. After completing high-school, aspiring real estate agents will need to pursue additional education in the field. This is usually done through a real estate program or courses offered at a community college.

provides individuals with a solid background in real estate practices, laws, and principles. This knowledge helps agents to navigate the complexities that come with the real estate industry, including regulations and client interactions.

Individuals must obtain a real estate license after completing their education. State licensing requirements vary, but most require passing a licensing examination and completing an amount of education or work experience.

Obtaining real estate licensing will demonstrate to clients that agents have the skills and knowledge necessary to represent client interests in real property transactions. Licensed estate agents are required to adhere a strict code on ethics and professional conduct. This ensures that they uphold integrity and professionalism when dealing with clients.

The licensing and educational requirements for general real estate agents are designed to ensure the agents are competent, knowledgeable, and ethical. Individuals can achieve success in the competitive industry of real estate by completing the necessary steps for education and licensing.

Obtaining an agent license to work as a general agent

Obtaining a real estate license to practice as a general agent is a thorough involves meeting certain requirements set forth by the state in which you wish to practice. The first step is typically completing a certain number of hours of pre-licensing education from an accredited institution.

After you have completed the necessary education, you will also need to pass the state licensing test. This exam tests you on your knowledge of real-estate laws, practices, ethical standards, and more. This exam is crucial for obtaining a license. It is important that you study and prepare thoroughly.

You will then need to submit a license application to the state licensing board. This application will require you to provide proof of your education, exam scores, and any other required documentation.

You will be able practice as a general real estate agent once your application has been approved and you have received your real estate license. As a real estate general agent, your authority will extend to representing clients in a broad range of real-estate transactions, such as buying, selling and renting property.

It is important to note that maintaining your real estate license requires ongoing education and adherence to the ethical standards set forth by the state licensing board. Failure to comply with this standard can result in suspension or revocation.

Overall, getting a real estate licence to practice as a General Agent is a rewarding but challenging process that could lead to a long and successful career in realty. You can be sure that you will be able to serve your clientele effectively and ethically if you follow the necessary steps, and stay informed about any changes in real-estate laws and regulations.

Continued education required to stay current on industry developments

Continuing education requirements are essential for general agents in the real estate industry to stay current on industry trends. These requirements are designed to ensure that agents possess the necessary knowledge and skills to provide excellent service to clients.

General agents must complete a certain number of hours of continuing education courses each year to maintain their license. These courses cover a variety of topics including industry trends and updates, market changes, legal changes, as well as new technologies that are transforming the real estate landscape.

By providing clients with current information and advice, general agent can better serve them by staying abreast of industry trends. This can help agents gain new clients, retain their existing clients, and ultimately grow the business.

Continuing education requirements help general agents remain competitive in the marketplace. Agents can differentiate themselves and establish themselves as experts by staying current with industry trends.

Continuing education is also a great way for general agents to improve their knowledge and skills. This will allow them to be more prepared to face new challenges and take on new opportunities as the real estate market continues its rapid evolution. This can lead both to an increase in job satisfaction and career advancement opportunities.

In conclusion, continuing education requirements are essential for general agents in the real estate industry to stay current on industry trends, serve their clients effectively, and stay competitive in the market. By investing in their education and staying on top of the latest developments in the industry, general agents can ensure long-term success and growth in their careers.

Specialized training or certifications that may be beneficial for general agents

Obtaining specialized certifications or training can be a great benefit to real estate agents who are general agents. It will enhance their knowledge in specific areas. Some certifications can be beneficial, including:

1. Certified Residential Specialists (CRS ): ) This designation is given to agents who have received advanced training and have a track record of successful sales and transactions. CRS agents are experts and can offer valuable insight and advice to clients.

2. Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR strong> ABR strong> agents with this certification completed additional training for representing buyers in transactions. ABR agents can guide their clients through the entire buying process.

3. Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM): This designation is for agents specializing in commercial real estate. CCIM agents have completed extensive training in investment analysis, market analysis, and financial analysis, making them highly qualified to assist clients in commercial property transactions.

4. Graduate, Realtor(r) institute (GRI ): agents with a GRI have completed comprehensive real estate training, including legal and financial issues, marketing, ethics, and marketing. GRI agents have a broad knowledge base and are well-equipped to handle a wide range of real estate transactions.

5. Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE): This certification is for agents who have completed training in negotiation strategies and techniques. RENE agents are skilled in advocating for their clients’ interests and securing favorable deals in real estate transactions.

By obtaining specialized certifications or training, general agents can differentiate themselves on the competitive real estate markets, build credibility with their clients, and enhance expertise in specific areas. Investing on your professional development and education can increase your success in the real-estate field.

Conclusion

Conclusion general agent real-estate is an important part of the real-estate industry. These agents have a key role in bringing buyers and sellers together, negotiating agreements, and ensuring the smooth transaction of all parties.

A general agent is a great choice for real estate because they are familiar with the market and have the ability to provide valuable insight to clients. They have a good understanding of the market, can provide valuable insights to their clients, and are up-to-date on current trends.

General agents will also be responsible for marketing properties and conducting showings. They will also handle negotiations. They act as an intermediary between buyers and vendors, ensuring both parties’ interest are represented fairly.

General agents can also help speed up the process of buying or selling a home by having access to a wider range of potential buyers and vendors. They have connections and industry professionals. They can also give their client a competitive advantage by providing access to listing service.

Overall, working with a general agent in real estate can save clients time, money, and stress. Their expertise, knowledge, and resources can make the buying or selling process much smoother and more efficient.

General agents are vital to the real estate industry. They offer valuable services for both buyers and sellers. Their experience and expertise will help clients navigate through the complex world of realty and achieve positive outcomes.

Recap of the important role general agents play in real estate transactions

1. General agents are crucial in real estate transactions. They act on behalf of clients to facilitate the buying, selling or leasing of properties.

2. They have the authority and responsibility to represent clients in negotiations. They also handle paperwork and ensure compliance with all legal requirements during the transaction.

3. General agents are bound by fiduciary duties to act in their clients’ best interests, which means that they must always put their clients’ goals and needs above their own.

4. They play a crucial role in promoting properties, conducting property shows, and helping their clients find suitable homes based on preferences and budget.

5. General agents also provide valuable guidance on pricing strategies, market trends, and potential risks or opportunities in the real estate market.

6. They help clients negotiate favorable terms and ensure that all parties in the transaction meet their obligations.

7. General agents play a vital role in facilitating smooth real estate transactions. They bring their expertise, experience, knowledge, and understanding of the local property market to the table.

8. In conclusion, agents who specialize in general real estate play a crucial role by acting as trusted advisors to their clients and as advocates throughout the entire process of buying or selling a home.

Emphasis is placed on the skills required, as well as the knowledge and ethics, to be successful.

Success in the general agent real estate profession requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and ethics.

First and foremost, a real estate agent must possess strong communication skills.

Effective communication with clients, colleagues, and other professionals in the industry is essential in building relationships and closing deals.

Agents must be able to clearly convey information about properties, negotiate terms, and handle any conflicts that may arise.

Organizational skills are also essential for managing multiple listings, appointments, paperwork, and other tasks.

Agents should be detail-oriented to ensure smooth transactions. They must also be able keep track of important documents and deadlines.

For success, it is important to have a good understanding of the industry and the real-estate market.

Agents need to be aware of local market conditions and pricing strategies as well as legal requirements in order to provide the best possible service to their customers.

Agents that are well-informed are able to accurately evaluate properties and set asking prices. They can also advise clients about the best way to proceed.

Furthermore, ethical behavior is a cornerstone of a successful real estate career.

Agents have to adhere to a strict set of ethics that governs the way they interact with their clients, colleagues and the public.

Maintaining honesty, integrity, and transparency in all dealings is essential in building trust and credibility in the industry.

Overall, success as a general agent in the real estate industry requires a combination between skills, knowledge, ethics, and professionalism.

Agents with a strong background in these areas have a better chance of building a rewarding career in real estate.