So, you’ve passed your licensing exam, got your shiny new REALTOR® badge, and you’re ready to conquer the world. Exciting, right? But here’s the thing no one really tells you before you start: your first year is less “Selling Sunset” and more “learning curve on steroids.”
Don’t worry — that’s not a bad thing. At ARIVL, we believe that if you know what’s coming, you can conquer it. So let’s talk about the 5 things no one tells you about your first year in real estate — and how to not just survive it, but crush it.
1. Your Calendar Will Feel Empty… Until It Doesn’t
The first few months? Crickets. You’ll stare at your calendar and wonder if your phone’s broken. Then suddenly, everything happens at once — calls, showings, paperwork, and client questions at 11 p.m.
The truth: Real estate doesn’t run on a 9-to-5 schedule, and building momentum takes time. Focus on building relationships, showing up on social media, and talking to everyone about what you do. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
2. Your Friends and Family Won’t Automatically Hire You
We know — shocking, right? But many new agents assume their inner circle will be their first clients. The reality is, they might cheer you on from the sidelines… but still call someone else when it’s time to buy or sell.
The fix: Don’t take it personally. Instead, focus on providing value. Share market tips, success stories, and show that you’re serious about this business. Over time, trust builds — and those referrals will follow.
3. Deals Don’t Happen Overnight
You’ll have buyers who look for months. Sellers who “just want to test the market.” Offers that fall apart over $1,000. Welcome to real estate.
The lesson: Patience (and persistence) are everything. Your first year is about building your pipeline — and those efforts often don’t pay off for 6 to 12 months. But when they do, they snowball.
4. You’ll Do More Than Just Sell Homes
Real estate is part marketer, part therapist, part negotiator, and part paperwork ninja. You’ll help clients navigate massive life decisions, learn to create content, host open houses, and figure out how to explain zoning bylaws… all before lunch.
The good news: These skills will make you unstoppable. Embrace the variety and lean into learning. Every challenge is a chance to level up.
5. Your Success Depends on Systems (Not Luck)
The most successful first-year agents aren’t “lucky” — they’re prepared. They use CRMs to track leads, set up follow-up systems, and build habits around prospecting. Without systems, you’ll spend more time spinning your wheels than moving forward.
Our tip: Don’t try to reinvent the wheel. At ARIVL, we give our agents a roadmap for their first 100 days and the tools to build a business that scales — not just a hustle that burns you out.
Final Thought: It’s Hard — But It’s Worth It
Your first year in real estate will test you. You’ll question yourself, your decisions, and maybe even your Wi-Fi. But you’ll also celebrate your first deal, hand over keys to a first-time buyer, and realize you’re building something real.
At ARIVL, we’re here to make that journey smoother — with training, mentorship, and a community that’s got your back every step of the way.
📍 ARIVL: Your Real Estate Adventure Awaits!
Ready to kick off your real estate career the right way? Let’s chat. Email us at hq@arivl.ca or call/text Jakie at 780-224-5566 — your future in real estate starts here.