Thank you for your opinion.. I appreciate your candidness and it made me look at things from a different perspective. I however have to wonder (with all due respect *smile*) if you're answering as you would have when first starting out, or years later as a complete success?
I think with just starting out I found it extremely valuable to do both.. not only for experience but for future knowledge and CYA. Maybe it's different for single parents with a teen to be concerned with--putting your all into something usually means balancing between your child, your career and yourself.
Maybe my attitude will change in the next year or so when things pick up and I become more established and too busy to do everything I am now (such as hold down a full time job in addition). I actually have 2 clients inquiring simultaneously --one a friend who is in no hurry and just wants the right package; the other for a 2nd investment property with an Option ARM. I've been in so many other fields from property management to construction to high tech for years.. I think so far, aside from support of friends/family, this is where I want to be and my path was paved however rough. If anything, working hard never scared me.
I've been told real estate was difficult to master part-time (and they are right) and I was told that I may like working with lending moreso than real estate (I doubt it) but knowing the ins and outs and many options.. I just think it is more beneficial to know what's best for the client upfront before taking that client to see a house.. and a lot less waste of time. Is that too blind..?
I thought listening to the client was crutial--and as long as I had a team to assist where necessary, and I was able to provide what the client needed at that time.. am I missing something?
I've been researching and asking questions and hoping for honest opinions (such as yours) and I value every word--taking what I can from all. Care to venture into this a bit in the future just to see where it leads? As a side note-- When I met with brokers (and I met with a lot) I found that part-time was not always welcomed; single motherhood was looked at almost discriminatory; I learned email and voice worked better than in person at first (so they'd hear me and maybe look me in the eye and not elsewhere); and that only few were willing to take a chance and the challenge. With that said, whether or not I get the training I need I'll have to see.
I think we all get in return what we put in.. and I realize the market is hot for sales out there --but honestly (and again with all due respect) --how much can you give 5 clients at the same time? I am just curious how the rest of the brokers and agents view opportunity. I won't fail because I chose to do both, if anything I'd falter because of balance --but I'd figure out a way to go because failure just isn't an option. Too hopeless? *laugh* perhaps.. but would you at least enlighten me with your expertise and tips on how to succeed?
Did I fail to mention I'm a writer at heart? I will keep it shorter next time..
Ciao! And have a wonderful day ^i^