5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Real Estate School
Starting real estate school is a huge step—one filled with excitement, ambition, and let’s face it, a bit of uncertainty. Whether you're transitioning from another career or jumping in fresh, there's a lot to learn (and a few surprises along the way).
Looking back, here are five things I wish someone had told me before I enrolled. If you're considering this path, these insights could make your journey smoother—and smarter.
1. 🎯 Real Estate Isn’t Just About Selling Homes
When most people think of real estate, they picture showing pretty houses and cashing big commission checks. What they don’t see is everything behind the scenes—licensing requirements, legal knowledge, client management, and a lot of hustle.
If you're still deciding whether this career is right for you, check out our guide:
👉 Is Real Estate Right for You? 7 Signs You’re Ready for a Career Change
It explores the motivations, skills, and mindset that successful agents share.
2. 📚 Pre-Licensing is More Intense Than You Think
Pre-licensing coursework is no joke. It’s packed with legal terminology, math concepts, contracts, and state-specific regulations that require serious study.
REAL University offers a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect in class, so you don’t walk in unprepared:
👉 What to Expect in a Pre-Licensing Course at REAL University
We also help you compare learning formats so you choose the one that fits your lifestyle best. Whether it's in-person, online, or self-paced, we’ve got you covered.
3. 🗺️ Understanding the Full Licensing Journey is Key
One thing that tripped me up early on? Not understanding the entire licensing process. It's not just about completing the course—you also have to pass the state exam, choose a broker, and often complete post-licensing education too.
Check out this roadmap we created:
👉 How to Get Your Real Estate License in Indiana: Step-by-Step Guide
Plus, don’t miss this essential breakdown of the differences between early and ongoing education:
4. 🧠 Your Learning Style Really Matters
Real estate school isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some students thrive in a classroom with live instructors, while others prefer the flexibility of learning online at their own pace. Knowing your learning style early helps you choose the right program.
I underestimated how much time and energy studying would take, especially while balancing a job and family. If you need help deciding which format is right for you, check out:
👉 What to Expect in a Pre-Licensing Course at REAL University
We cover both our in-person experience and online options, so you can make a confident choice.
5. 🚀 It’s Just the Beginning of Your Real Estate Career
Getting licensed is only the first step. What happens after that is just as important. I didn’t fully grasp how much more there was to do after getting my license—building a network, finding clients, continuing education, and personal branding.
Get ahead by reading:
👉 What to Expect After You Get Your Real Estate License in Indiana
This post will help you plan for what comes next and how to hit the ground running once you’re legally ready to work.
🌟 Final Thoughts: Start with the End in Mind
If I could do it all over again, I’d take more time to understand the full journey, align my expectations, and prepare myself for the commitment required.
But now that I’ve been through it, I want to help future students like you avoid the same surprises.
Start by exploring these resources from REAL University:
👉 Is Real Estate Right for You? 7 Signs You’re Ready for a Career Change
👉 What to Expect After You Get Your Real Estate License in Indiana
👉 How to Get Your Real Estate License in Indiana: Step-by-Step Guide
👉 What to Expect in a Pre-Licensing Course at REAL University
