Let’s explore the jobs you can get with a real estate license, the average annual salary of each, and the skills required to excel. 
The roles listed are ones you can get with a real estate license, but not all require it. However, having it equips you with deep, structured knowledge of how real estate transactions and processes work, which is critical for many real estate careers — even ones outside direct sales.
In many real estate-adjacent jobs (like mortgage, escrow, investing, and property management), having a license builds client trust, signaling you understand the industry and meet professional standards. Those with licenses may also better navigate regulations related to transactions, property ownership, and ethical obligations. This helps jobs like loan officers, insurance underwriters, and foreclosure specialists avoid costly mistakes.
Editorial note: All US salaries listed were taken from ZipRecruiter on April 28, 2025.
Finance, lending & insurance
1. Mortgage loan officer
Required skills:
Financial analysis, customer service, regulatory compliance, attention to detail, and communication
A mortgage loan officer acts as a client’s personal guide throughout the home financing journey. In this role, you’ll assess the financial situation, explain various loan options, and help the client choose the mortgage that best fits their needs.
Acting as the liaison between the client and the lender, you’ll ensure that all necessary documentation is in order and that the loan process moves smoothly from application to closing. Your goal is to make the complex world of mortgages understandable and accessible, helping your client secure the keys to their new property. 
While not required, having a real estate license in this job helps by building stronger credibility with clients and real estate agents, as well as providing a deeper understanding of real estate transactions and buyer behavior.
What you need:
ou must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and obtain a Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) license. This involves completing 20 hours of Nationwide Multi-State Licensing System and Registry (NMLS)-approved pre-licensing education, passing the SAFE MLO exam with a score of at least 75%, and undergoing background and credit checks. Licensing requirements can vary by state, so check your state’s regulatory agency for specific mandates.
2. Insurance underwriter
Required skills:
Analytical, detail-oriented, decisive, and knowledge of insurance policies
As a real estate insurance underwriter, you’ll evaluate the risks associated with insuring residential or commercial properties. You’ll analyze factors like property location, construction materials, and potential hazards to determine appropriate coverage terms and premium rates. Your assessments help ensure that both the insurer and policyholders are adequately protected. Having a license in this role isn’t a requirement, but having it helps in evaluating property value and ownership records.
What you need:
A bachelor’s degree in fields such as finance, business, or economics is typically required. While not always mandatory, obtaining certifications like the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) can enhance career prospects. Some states may require underwriters to pass licensing exams, especially if the role involves direct customer interaction or sales.
3. Escrow officer
Required skills:
Organized, communicative, and detail-oriented with escrow knowledge and time management skills
A real estate escrow officer serves as a neutral third party who manages the escrow process during property transactions. This job involves ensuring that all contractual terms are met before finalizing the deal. 
This includes handling funds, preparing and reviewing documents, coordinating with buyers, sellers, agents, and lenders, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. Your role is crucial in facilitating a smooth and secure transfer of property ownership.
What you need:
You typically need at least a high school diploma or GED. Gaining experience in real estate or finance, such as working as an escrow assistant, is often beneficial. In some states, you may be required to obtain a state-issued license, which could involve completing specific training, passing an exam, and undergoing a background check. Check with your state’s regulatory agency for precise requirements.
4. Mortgage processor
Required skills:
Data entry, document verification, multitasking, communication, and familiarity with loan processing software
You play a crucial role in the home financing journey as a mortgage loan processor. Once a client has applied for a mortgage, you’ll step in to collect and verify all the necessary documents — like income statements, credit reports, and property details — to ensure everything is in order.
You’ll act as the bridge between the client, the loan officer, and the underwriter, ensuring the application progresses smoothly through the approval process. Your goal is to keep things organized so that the loan closes without a hitch. Albeit the job doesn’t require a license, holding one enables you to have a deeper understanding of the documentation.
What you need:
To get started, you’ll need at least a high school diploma or GED. Certification isn’t always required, but obtaining credentials like the Certified Mortgage Processor (NAMP®-CMP) can enhance your job prospects. Licensing requirements vary by state, so check with your state’s regulatory agency to see if a license is necessary.
5. Title examiner
Required skills:
Research, attention to detail, understanding of legal documents, analytical thinking, and record-keeping
A real estate title examiner is like a property detective, delving into public records to verify a property’s legal ownership and uncover any issues that may affect its sale. You’ll scrutinize documents such as deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements to ensure there are no hidden surprises, like unpaid taxes or legal disputes, that could cloud the title.
By providing a clear title report, you play a crucial role in facilitating smooth real estate transactions. Improved knowledge of property titles and ownership history is one of the highlights of having a real estate license in this role — even though it isn’t mandated.
What you need:
Many employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fields like real estate, law, or business. While certification isn’t mandatory, obtaining credentials like the Certified Title Examiner (CTE) can enhance your professional standing. Additionally, gaining experience through roles such as title clerk or escrow assistant can be beneficial.
While certification isn’t mandatory, obtaining credentials like the Certified Title Examiner (CTE) can enhance your professional standing. Additionally, gaining experience through roles such as title clerk or escrow assistant can be beneficial. Note that licensing requirements vary by state; for instance, Arkansas, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, North Dakota, and South Dakota require title examiners to be licensed, which may involve passing an exam and meeting education or experience criteria. It’s essential to check with your state’s regulatory agency to understand the specific requirements.
6. Foreclosure specialist
Required skills:
Foreclosure laws, organization, communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail
This role is crucial in navigating the complex and often emotional landscape of property foreclosures. You’ll manage the entire foreclosure process, ensuring it complies with local, state, and federal regulations. This involves reviewing legal documents, coordinating with attorneys, lenders, and homeowners, and sometimes negotiating alternatives, like loan modifications, to help clients retain their homes.
This is another career wherein a real estate license isn’t essential. However, with one, you’ll have an easier time navigating property sales and legal processes.
What you need:
Gaining experience in real estate, loan processing, or financial counseling can be beneficial. Obtaining certifications such as the Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) or Certified Mortgage Servicer (CMS) can enhance your career prospects and may be required. It’s important to note that licensing requirements can vary by state, so consult your state’s regulatory agency for specific mandates.
Real estate investment and advisory
7. Real estate attorney
Average annual salary from ZipRecruiter::
$140,845
Required skills:
Real estate law expertise, legal research, analytical, attention to detail, logical reasoning, and problem-solving.
A real estate lawyer manages the legal aspects of property transactions, helping clients navigate the complexities of leasing, buying, and selling. You’ll prepare papers like leasing agreements, eviction notices, title documents, and mortgage contracts. 
You’ll also perform title searches to confirm property ownership and address all legal concerns while representing tenants, buyers, and sellers.
While a real estate license isn’t a requirement for this role, holding one adds credibility and deeper transactional expertise.
What you need:
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in pre-law, complete law school to earn a Juris Doctor degree, and then pass your state’s bar exam. In some states, lawyers can skip prelicensing education to earn a real estate license.
8. Real estate investor
Required skills:
Market research and risk assessment
As a real estate investor, you’ll buy and sell properties to generate income. The process typically involves purchasing properties to rent out or renovating homes to sell at a higher price, also known as flipping houses. Some investors also purchase land for future development.
What you need:
While it may be true that you don’t need a real estate license to be an investor, you should still get a license to make real money doing it. When you’re an investor with a real estate license, you can represent yourself in the sale of your properties, saving you upward of 6% (the typical commission for residential real estate sales). In addition, you can represent yourself in the purchase of real estate, allowing you to either pocket the commission or negotiate it off the top of the sales price.
Related resource:
How To Invest in Real Estate
9. Real estate developer
Required skills:
Project management, financial modeling, negotiation, and knowledge of zoning laws
In this role, you are the visionary behind transforming raw land or existing properties into thriving residential, commercial, or mixed-use spaces. From scouting locations and securing financing to navigating zoning laws and overseeing construction, you’ll orchestrate every phase of a project.
Your role is pivotal in shaping communities, driving economic growth, and bringing architectural concepts to life. Note that this is another career wherein a real estate license isn’t crucial — but with one, better insight into property acquisition and zoning regulations is one of the benefits you’ll enjoy.
What you need:
To launch a dynamic career, a bachelor’s degree in fields such as real estate, finance, urban planning, or construction management is often beneficial. Also, obtaining a real estate license can enhance credibility. Note that licensing requirements vary by state, so check your local real estate commission for compliance.
10. Real estate portfolio manager
Average annual salary from ZipRecruiter::
$84,102
Required skills:
Asset management, financial analysis, strategic planning, communication, and market research
A real estate portfolio manager is like the conductor of a property investment orchestra. You’ll oversee a collection of real estate assets — be it residential, commercial, or mixed-use — to ensure each property performs optimally. By analyzing market trends, assessing risks, and strategizing acquisitions or sales, your aim is to maximize returns and align the portfolio with the investor’s goals 
.
Your role is pivotal in balancing short-term gains with long-term growth, ensuring the portfolio remains robust in varying market conditions. Additionally, if you hold a real estate license in this role (not required), you’ll have an enhanced understanding of market values and investment strategies.
What you need:
You’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in fields like real estate, finance, or business administration. Though not always mandatory, obtaining certifications such as the Certified Property Manager (CPM) can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise.
Also, some states may require a real estate license, especially if your role involves buying or selling properties. Gaining experience through roles like property analyst or assistant portfolio manager can provide valuable insights and pave the way for your advancement.
11. Real estate analyst
Average annual salary from ZipRecruiter::
$71,579
Required skills:
Market research, analytical, and data analysis
One technical job with a real estate license is as an analyst. You’ll examine trends and interpret data to provide insights and recommendations for property investments, developments, and other transactions. In addition to observing market trends, you’ll analyze property values and evaluate potential risks. You’ll use all findings to help clients make informed decisions about leasing, buying, selling, or developing properties.
What you need:
If you love finance and economics and want to work in this role, you must gain relevant experience in real estate firms or financial institutions. Staying informed about market trends and the economic climate would be best.
12. Real estate appraiser
Required skills:
Market research, analytical, and knowledge of appraisal techniques
A real estate appraiser meticulously evaluates properties to determine their fair market value. You’ll conduct on-site inspections, noting factors such as location, condition, and amenities, and compare these with recent sales of similar properties. Your unbiased assessments are crucial for buyers, sellers, lenders, and investors to make informed decisions. Although a real estate license isn’t vital for this career, having one adds perspective on sales practices and market dynamics.
What you need:
You’ll typically start as a trainee, completing at least 75 hours of coursework approved by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB). Next, you’ll need to gain supervised experience — usually around 1,000 hours over six months — before passing your state’s licensing exam. Requirements may vary by state, so check your state’s regulatory agency. As you advance, additional education and experience can lead to higher certifications, allowing you to appraise more complex properties.
Real estate sales and brokerage
13. Real estate agent
Required skills:
Communication, negotiation, persuasion, and market knowledge
Whenever you ask, “What can you do with a real estate license?”, the most common answer is to become a real estate agent. You can do this full- or part-time. In this role, you’ll represent buyers and sellers as they navigate the real estate transaction process.
- Buyer’s agent: Accompany buyers on showings and provide counsel and advice through the property search, selection, negotiation, and contract process. Also, connect homebuyers with the necessary area professionals (like mortgage brokers, inspectors, appraisers, and more) to help them reach the finish line.
- Seller’s agent: Offer counsel to sellers regarding the estimated value of their homes. Additionally, provide a listing strategy, including price, marketing, open houses, etc., and help clients negotiate in the offer process — ultimately getting them to the closing table.
What you need:
The requirements to become a real estate agent vary by state. Some only require 40 hours of prelicensing education, while others need over a hundred hours.
14. Real estate managing broker
Required skills:
Leadership, management, mentoring, knowledge of real estate laws and regulations
As the captain 
of a brokerage ship, you’ll be steering both the business and its crew of agents. In this role, one of the more popular careers with a real estate license, you don’t just oversee transactions — you mentor agents, ensure legal compliance, and drive the firm’s growth strategy. From recruiting top talent to resolving complex deals, managing brokers are the go-to leaders who keep the office running smoothly and ethically.
What you need:
You’ll first need to gain experience as a licensed agent to become a real estate broker. Most, if not all, states require 2 to 5 years of active practice before you’re eligible to upgrade. Next, you’ll complete additional pre-licensing education — typically 60 to 180 hours — covering topics like brokerage operations, ethics, and risk management.
After passing your state’s broker exam and background check, you’ll earn your broker license. Some states, like Washington, offer a specific managing broker license for those supervising other agents. Be sure to check your state’s real estate commission for exact requirements.
Related resources:
Real Estate Broker vs Agent
15. Real estate assistant
Required skills:
Administrative, communication, and organizational
A real estate assistant assists in managing the day-to-day operations of brokerages. You’ll receive visitors at a brokerage, respond to emails, answer the phone, schedule appointments, and organize paperwork. If you want to work for an agent or broker, your responsibilities will include coordinating property showings, handling client inquiries, and creating property listings. You’ll nail this role if you’re good at juggling multiple responsibilities, and you can take on more responsibilities, like showing homes if licensed.
What you need:
You typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some states — such as California, Texas, and Florida — require a real estate license if you’ll perform tasks like showing properties, discussing offers, or handling contracts.
In licensed roles, you must complete pre-licensing coursework, pass the state real estate exam, and undergo a background check. It’s important to check with your state’s real estate commission for specific requirements and restrictions, as duties allowed without a license vary widely by state.
16. Virtual real estate assistant
Required skills:
Administrative, communication, and organizational
Operating remotely, a virtual assistant (VA) handles tasks such as managing property listings, coordinating appointments, handling client communications, and overseeing social media campaigns. Your role is pivotal in keeping the real estate engine running efficiently, allowing agents to dedicate more time to client interactions and property showings.
This is another role wherein a license isn’t mandatory. However, if you hold one, you can offer broader support, like lead generation or paperwork handling, with more authority.
What you need:
Familiarity with real estate apps like MLS and CRM platforms and social media tools can give you an edge. While no specific licenses are mandated, it’s essential to be aware of state-specific regulations, especially if you’re assisting with tasks that might require licensure. Also, continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends will further enhance your value in this role.
While no specific licenses are mandated, it’s essential to be aware of state-specific regulations, especially if you’re assisting with tasks that might require licensure. Also, continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends will further enhance your value in this role. Property management & inspection
17. Construction project manager
Required skills:
Project management, budgeting, leadership, problem-solving, and knowledge of construction processes
From the initial blueprint to the final brick, a real estate construction project manager ensures every phase — from planning and budgeting to scheduling and quality control — harmonizes seamlessly. By coordinating with architects, engineers, contractors, and stakeholders, you’ll keep projects on track, within budget, and up to code, ensuring that the final structure stands tall and proud. Having a real estate license isn’t crucial, but it does help when it comes to understanding permits, zoning, and land acquisition.
What you need:
To kickstart your career, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field. While not always mandatory, certifications like the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Project Management Professional (PMP) can bolster your credentials.
Additionally, some states may require specific licenses, especially if you’re overseeing certain types of projects or budgets, so consult your state’s licensing board. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions can also pave the way to a successful career in construction project management.
18. Property manager
Required skills:
Communication, financial management, problem-solving, and knowledge of landlord-tenant laws
A property manager, one of the jobs you can get with a real estate license, handles the daily operations of various properties for owners. You can work for landlords, investors, or building owners by screening tenants, preparing lease agreements, showing properties, and collecting rent. You’ll ensure properties are well-maintained and meet safety standards, as well as address tenant concerns and create budgets, set rental fees, monitor expenses, and report finances to owners 
.
What you need:
To become a property manager, you must have relevant experience in property management assistance or tenant relations. While certifications for Certified Property Manager (CPM), Certified Apartment Leasing Professional (CALP), or Master Property Manager (MPM) are not legally required, they can significantly bolster your qualifications and are often valued by clients seeking demonstrated professionalism and commitment to the field.
19. Home inspector
Required skills:
Knowledge of building codes and attention to detail
With this role, you’ll assess properties to ensure they meet safety standards before the property sells. You’ll thoroughly inspect a home’s structural elements, electrical systems, plumbing, and roofing, as well as HVAC systems. You should be detail-oriented as you’ll identify faulty wiring, water leaks, and structural damage. Note that in this career, being licensed as a real estate professional, albeit not required, enhances credibility and understanding of property disclosures.
What you need:
You’ll typically need a high school diploma and completion of state-approved training, which can range from 60 to 194 hours, depending on the state, to become a home inspector. Many states also require passing the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE). Some states, like Texas and Florida, have specific licensing requirements, including background checks and insurance. See what your state’s regulatory board says to understand the exact requirements.
Education and content
20. Real estate coach
Required skills:
Leadership, communication, coaching, mentoring, motivational, and industry knowledge
The best real estate coaches mentor industry professionals to enhance their skills and grow their businesses. As a coach 
, you’ll empower agents, brokers, and other real estate professionals by boosting their confidence and promoting career growth — which is why having your real estate license can add to your credibility (but it’s not a requirement of the role). You’ll pinpoint areas where clients need to improve, conduct one-on-one sessions and workshops, and give continuous feedback.
What you need:
Start by developing your communication skills, managing clients, and producing training materials. Then, work toward marketing yourself, coaching a few clients, and staying updated on training techniques.
Once you work as a real estate coach, you can also be one of the leading motivational speakers at industry events. Sharing your insights and success stories can inspire others and establish you as a thought leader in the industry. You may also write a book or create courses to reach a bigger audience and expand your network.
21. Real estate marketing specialist
Required skills:
Creativity, digital marketing, market analysis, branding, and content creation
A real estate marketing specialist is the creative force behind promoting properties and enhancing a brand’s visibility. You’ll craft compelling campaigns, design eye-catching materials like brochures and digital ads, manage social media platforms, and coordinate events such as open houses.
By analyzing market trends and consumer behavior, you can tailor strategies to attract potential buyers and sellers, ensuring properties stand out in a competitive market. And by holding a license, though not mandatory, you will have a better understanding of compliance in advertising listings.
What you need:
A bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or a related field is often preferred. Some employers may also require a real estate license, especially if the role involves tasks like listing properties or negotiating deals. Certifications such as the Certified Real Estate Marketing Specialist (CREMS) can enhance your credentials and demonstrate expertise in the field.
22. Real estate content creator
Average annual salary from ZipRecruiter:
$116,615
Required skills:
Content development, social media management, video editing, storytelling, and SEO
A real estate content creator is the storyteller 
of the property world, crafting engaging content that showcases listings, markets, and industry insights. Whether it’s producing captivating videos, writing informative blog posts, or producing eye-catching social media campaigns, you bridge the gap between properties and potential clients. By highlighting the unique features of properties and neighborhoods, you help real estate professionals connect with their audience and drive interest in listings.
What you need:
Familiarity with real estate concepts, strong writing skills, and proficiency in content creation tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite are valuable assets. While no specific licenses are required for this career, understanding local real estate regulations can enhance the quality and compliance of your content. Building a portfolio that showcases your ability to create compelling real estate content is key to attracting clients or employers.
You can start by gathering real estate social media content ideas for your platforms. You can also partner with real estate brands, software, or platforms and promote them on your page to earn extra income.
23. Real estate photographer
Average annual salary from ZipRecruiter::
$62,338
Required skills:
Photography, lighting techniques, photo editing, and attention to detail
A real estate content photographer captures images that highlight a property’s best features and appeal to potential buyers. You’ll photograph interiors and exteriors, ensuring each shot showcases the space’s unique charm. Beyond snapping pictures, you’ll handle editing tasks — adjusting lighting, color balance, and composition — to produce polished images ready for listings, brochures, and social media.
What you need:
You’ll need a solid understanding of photography principles, which can be gained through formal education or self-study. Investing in quality equipment, like a DSLR camera with a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod, is essential. Proficiency in editing software such as Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop will enhance the appeal of your photos.
24. Real estate instructor
Required skills:
Communication, passion for teaching, and in-depth knowledge of real estate principles and practices
As a real estate instructor, another one of the jobs you can get with a real estate license, you act as an academic guide 
for aspiring agents and brokers, delivering structured education on topics like property law, contracts, ethics, and finance. You’ll teach pre-licensing courses, continuing education, and exam prep — often in classrooms, online, or at real estate schools.
What you need:
You’ll typically need an active real estate broker’s license (required in many states) and several years of industry experience (often 3 to 5 years). A bachelor’s degree in business, real estate, or a related field is often preferred, and teaching or training experience is a plus.
Some states, like Texas, require instructors to complete specific training and pass exams for certain courses. Becoming a certified real estate instructor may even involve completing instructor development courses and obtaining certifications like the Certified Real Estate Instructor (CREI).
While both real estate instructors and coaches aim to educate, their approaches differ. Think of instructors as classroom teachers, while coaches are personal mentors guiding you through real-world challenges.
- A real estate instructor typically teaches standardized courses required for licensing, focusing on regulations, ethics, and foundational knowledge.
- A real estate coach offers personalized guidance, helping clients set goals, develop strategies, and improve performance based on individual needs.
25. Real estate writer
Average annual salary from ZipRecruiter:
$71,656.25
Required skills:
Excellent research, writing, SEO, and creativity
As the wordsmith of the property world, you’ll be crafting engaging content that informs, educates, and captivates. From blog posts and market analyses to property descriptions and newsletters, you’ll translate complex real estate terms and concepts into digestible narratives.
Whether working for agencies, publications, or as freelancers, your storytelling skills help demystify the real estate market and highlight the unique features of properties. Think of yourself as the bridge connecting real estate professionals to their clients through compelling prose.
What you need:
A background in journalism, communications, or marketing can be beneficial. No specific licenses or certifications are required, either, but staying updated with industry developments is crucial, as is knowledge of SEO if writing for digital publications. Building a diverse portfolio showcasing your writing on real estate topics can open doors to opportunities in this niche field.
Related resources:
The Ultimate Real Estate SEO Guide
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What skills are necessary to succeed in the real estate industry?
Good communication and negotiation skills are a must for interacting with clients. Staying updated on market trends is equally important, as this knowledge is crucial for understanding property values. Lastly, a can-do attitude is essential for long-term success in the industry.
Is it possible to have side hustles in real estate?
Absolutely! Working in real estate allows you to have side hustles because of the flexible hours. Many agents and brokers have part-time roles, such as real estate investors, content creators, and property managers. With excellent time management skills, you can have as many side hustles as possible.
What are the challenges of a career in real estate?
The challenges of a real estate career include income instability due to agents working on commission (which leads to unpredictable earnings, especially when starting out or during market downturns), long and irregular hours, high competition given that the industry is saturated with agents, and emotional stress from managing client expectations and deal negotiations.
Which states do real estate agents make the most money in?
According to May 2024 data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), real estate sales agents earn the highest average annual wages in the following states: New York ($112,080), Vermont ($100,750), Connecticut ($84,810), New Jersey ($82,490), and Alaska ($81,720). It’s important to note that an agent’s income is commission-based, meaning there is no limit to how much you can earn every year with the right skills, dedication, and effort.
How to make $100,000 your first year in real estate?
To make $100,000 in your first year in real estate, you need to treat it like a full-time business from day one — select a strong market, generate leads daily through cold calling, networking, and social media, and align with a brokerage that offers solid training and support. Focus on building relationships, mastering scripts, and following up consistently to close enough deals (typically 15 to 20), depending on your average commission.
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