Real Estate Sales Agents

Rent, buy, or sell property for clients. Perform duties such as study property listings, interview prospective clients, accompany clients to property site, discuss conditions of sale, and draw up real estate contracts. Includes agents who represent buyer.

SOC: 41-9022.00

Common Job Titles

Real Estate AgentRealtorRealtor AssociateSales Agent

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • MindsetIntegrate client needs with market opportunities when establishing and maintaining long-term client relationships in competitive real estate markets.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate property listings and market conditions using multiple listing services (MLS) and comparative market analysis tools to advise clients.
  • MindsetAdvocate client interests during contract negotiations while resolving conflicts and balancing competing demands between buyers and sellers.
  • KnowledgeInterpret real estate regulations, contract terms, and legal requirements to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal real estate law.
  • KnowledgeDevelop strategic marketing plans and promotional materials using social media platforms, CRM systems, and document creation software to maximize property exposure.
  • KnowledgeCoordinate property showings, inspections, and closing activities managing multiple stakeholders including lenders, attorneys, and home inspectors under time constraints.
  • MindsetEngage prospective clients through persuasive communication when performing public-facing sales activities and building professional networks.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze property values, investment potential, and financing options using financial calculators and real estate investment analysis software to support client decision-making.
  • KnowledgeApply customer service principles and sales techniques when consulting with clients to understand preferences, budgets, and property requirements.
  • KnowledgeDemonstrate proficiency with real estate technology platforms including MLS databases, digital contract software, virtual tour tools, and Microsoft Office applications for administrative tasks.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Real Estate Sales Agents (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

190,600

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$31,940
10% of workers earn the following or more$125,140
Workers on average earn$70,970

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.8/5
  • Sales and Marketing4.7/5
  • English Language4.3/5
  • Law and Government4.0/5
  • Administrative3.8/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Adobe AcrobatCanvaFacebookGoogle DocsIntuit QuickBooksMicrosoft DynamicsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft TeamsMicrosoft WordYardi softwareZoom

Technology Skills

Agent Business BuilderArgosy Legal Systems Power CloserCMA StuffersCommercial and industrial development project cost analysis softwareCorel WordPerfect Office SuiteDataBasix Technologies Lead CommanderDeLorme Topo USADigital contract software

Tools & Equipment

Desktop computersDigital camerasGlobal positioning system GPS receiversLaptop computersLaser printersMeasuring wheelsNotebook computersPersonal computers