Some view retirement as an opportunity to spend more time on the golf course. However, others may feel uncomfortable with a more leisurely schedule and are compelled to use their retirement to pursue new careers.
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for real estate, perhaps it’s time to complete a career pivot and become a real estate agent. Let’s explore the benefits of embracing a second career and why real estate is the perfect career choice for retirees. Finally, we will explain the straightforward process of getting your real estate license in Florida.
Key Takeaways:
- Retirement offers time to explore hobbies and interests, including starting a business.
- Being a part-time real estate agent allows retirees to balance work with other activities and commitments.
- With an average home cost in Florida of $388,454, earning 2 to 3% commission per sale can provide decent income.
- Complete the 63-hour Florida real estate pre-licensing course, pass a background check, and apply for a license.
Reasons for Embracing a Second Career in Retirement
If you’re on the fence about how to spend your retirement years, here are some of the benefits of starting another career.
1. Pursuing passions
With the free time that retirement offers, seniors may finally have the opportunity to pursue their long-held passions and interests. This can include starting hobbies and volunteering, but it can also include starting a business related to something they love.
2. Sense of purpose
Retirement can lead to a loss of identity and purpose for some people. Engaging in a new career allows older adults to continue feeling productive and fulfilled, contributing to their sense of self-worth.
3. Intellectual stimulation
Many older adults are eager to continue learning and challenging themselves intellectually. Starting a new career allows them to acquire new skills, stay mentally sharp, and engage with different fields or industries.
4. Social interaction
Workplaces provide opportunities for social interaction and camaraderie. Seniors who miss the social aspect of their previous jobs may seek a new career to maintain connections and friendships.
5. Financial stability
Some seniors may not have saved enough for retirement or may face unexpected financial burdens. Starting a new career can provide an additional source of income to support your lifestyle.
6. Adapting to change
Older adults who embrace a new career in retirement demonstrate resilience and a willingness to adapt to change. They view retirement not as an endpoint but as a new chapter full of opportunities for growth and fulfillment.
You may know others who did not thrive in retirement. Learn from their mistakes and embrace this next phase of life.
Part-Time Real Estate Careers for Seniors in Florida
Real estate agents typically work solely on commission, based on a percentage of the property’s purchase price. The average cost for a home in Florida is currently $388,454. Since real estate agents typically earn 2 to 3% of the final cost, they don’t have to sell many homes per year to earn a decent living by working part-time.
Seniors in Florida seeking part-time careers in real estate have several options. However, becoming a real estate agent will give you the greatest income potential and flexibility.
Learn more about how much Florida real estate agents earn by downloading this 2023-2024 salary guide.
Flexibility in Real Estate Careers for Seniors
One of the most significant benefits of real estate is that it allows retirees to work on their own terms and set their own schedules. This flexibility particularly appeals to seniors who want to balance work with other activities and commitments in retirement.
While a lot of real estate client interaction typically occurs on evenings and weekends, retirees could focus on a niche that allows them to work during regular business hours – such as commercial real estate or real estate transactions for other retirees.
Financial Considerations and Income Potential
Expect to pay between $750 and $950 for your real estate classes, application fees, background check, and exam. There may be additional costs after you are licensed – such as brokerage desk fees, membership fees for the National Association of REALTORS®, and other business start-up costs.
But, working as a real estate agent in Florida can be highly lucrative. According to Indeed, real estate agents in Florida make an average of $94,841 in commissions each year. This would be a fantastic supplement to anyone’s retirement income.
Navigating Licensing and Certification
Becoming a real estate agent in Florida is a straightforward process that can be completed in three to four months.
Here’s a summary of what to do:
- Complete the 63-hour Florida real estate prelicensing course
- Pass a background check
- Apply for a Florida real estate salesperson license
- Pass the Florida license exam
- Find a principal broker to work under
Gold Coast Schools has all the courses you need to become a real estate agent in Florida. We offer in-person, livestream, and at-your-own-pace online classes. Choose the best method for your learning style and schedule.
And it’s easy to get started on your real estate courses. Call Gold Coast Schools at800-732-9140 or email one of our educational advisors for more information.