You passed the exam, got your license, but now what? If you’re looking for tips for a new real estate agent in their first year, I’ve got you. Because let me tell you, year one is where most agents either build a real foundation or burn out fast.

I found out I was pregnant the day I took my licensing exam, so my first year wasn’t just about learning contracts—it was also figuring out how to be a new mom. It was messy, it was emotional, and it taught me everything I know now.

Below, I’m breaking down the 10 most important things I wish every real estate agent knew when starting out.

Why the First Year as a New Real Estate Agent Is So Hard

Most people underestimate what it takes to succeed in real estate. I did too when I first started out. Real estate takes a lot of hard work, but the rewards can be massive. 

The first year in real estate is when you’re learning the ropes. You’re figuring out how to generate leads, balance your schedule, build a brand, and keep up with contracts—all at once. And if you’re a mom, it can feel like chaos trying to juggle it all. 

There’s no clear blueprint. No one is telling you exactly what to do each day. And that freedom can feel overwhelming. That’s why the first year requires structure, mindset, and support.

The Top 10 Tips for a New Real Estate Agent

1. Prioritize Lead Gen Daily

Lead generation is your lifeline. It’s not optional. It’s not a “when I have time.” It needs to happen before everything else. 

The agents who succeed long-term are the ones who treat lead gen like a non-negotiable. Whether it’s texting your SOI, answering DMs or sending follow-ups, you have to plant seeds every single day. Even when you feel busy, lead gen never stops. 

Pro Tip: Block your mornings for lead gen before the rest of your day fills up. If it’s not on your calendar, it won’t happen.

2. Build Relationships, Not Just a Database

You do not need to pay for leads to succeed in real estate. I never had, and I never will. 

In my experience, it’s much easier to get more business and more referrals in the long run when you focus on relationships first. I started my business in a new state with zero SOI, but I still sold 28 houses in the first as a solo agent (and with no childcare!)

Start by telling everyone you know that you are in real estate and you’re ready to help. Call your friends. Check in with past coworkers. Become active in your local community. Show up with value and how you can help them before expecting something in return. 

Pro Tip: Make it your goal to have 3 real conversations minimum a day with someone in your sphere. Relationship > reach. 

3. Get Visible Online (Without Overthinking It)

Yes, you should post. No, it doesn’t have to be perfect.

Show your face. Share behind-the-scenes. Let people into your life. People want to work with someone they feel like they know, not a perfect robot who only posts “Just Listed” graphics. 

Pro Tip: Stuck on what to say? Start with the questions people have asked you this week and turn those into posts. 

4. Learn From Experienced Agents

The fastest way to grow in real estate is to learn from someone who’s already done what you’re trying to do. 

Here are a few ways to get in the room with people ahead of you:

• Join a team: Yes, your commission split might be smaller at first. But the real value is in the hands-on learning and behind-the-scenes access.
• Hire a coach: A good coach will help you avoid years of trial and error by giving you a proven strategy and honest feedback.
• Find a mentor: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most agents remember what it was like to be new and are happy to help someone who’s serious.

Is there a cost to that kind of support? Usually, yes. But what you’ll gain in confidence, clarity, and momentum is worth every penny. 

Pro Tip: Don’t just sit back and watch. After every shadowing session or coaching call, write down what you learned and how you’ll apply it. Action is where the growth happens.

5. Plug Into a Community

Real estate can be lonely. You need people around you who get it and can keep you motivated. 

Whether it’s your brokerage, a mentor, or a community like MOMward, being around other driven agents will keep you focused, accountable, and supported.

Pro Tip: Join at least one coaching program or group in your first 90 days. The right room will speed up your growth tenfold.

6. Know Your Market Inside and Out

You don’t need to be the best agent in the city, you just need to be the go-to agent for your niche.

Whether that’s helping first-time buyers, military families, or newly single moms, your job is to understand their needs and know your local market like the back of your hand.

Walk the neighborhoods. Tour every listing. Pay attention to what’s selling, what’s sitting, and what’s coming soon. The more familiar you are with your niche and your area, the more confident your clients will be in you.

Not sure which niche to pick? I’ve pulled together the top 5 real estate niches for realtor moms. 

Pro Tip: Track listings, pendings, and price drops then share those insights in your social media weekly. Your audience will start seeing you as the expert fast.

7. Create Simple Systems Early

You don’t need a 40-step workflow. But you do need some structure. Start with a simple spreadsheet to track your leads, then set up a basic CRM. Simple systems will save your sanity and keep you consistent when things get busy.

Pro Tip: Start with these 7 must-have automations for agents. Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to get organized.

8. Invest in Yourself First

Instead of throwing money at paid leads, invest in tools, training, and coaching that help you become a better agent. 

I invested in coaching early in my real estate career and have continued ever since. Being in rooms with people doing more than me has been one of the biggest drivers of my success.

Pro Tip: Budget a small monthly amount for business growth. One course or workshop can change everything.

9. Celebrate Small Wins

That first showing? It counts. First phone call? It counts. This business is full of delayed gratification, so celebrate as you go. Progress fuels confidence, and confidence fuels consistency. That’s how you keep going when it gets hard.

Pro Tip: Create a list on your notes app called “Wins” and update it weekly. Celebrate every step.

10. Give Yourself Grace

You’re going to mess up, you’re going to forget things, and guess what? You’re still going to be a great agent. 

This is a long game. Focus on learning, showing up, and getting better each week. You’ll be amazed at where you are 12 months from now.

Pro Tip: Set your own definition of success for year one. Maybe it’s closing your first deal or gaining confidence on listing calls. Don’t let someone else’s highlight reel make you feel behind.

The Gist

Your first year in real estate will stretch you, but it will also shape you. These tips for a new real estate agent aren’t just strategies, they’re mindset shifts and habits that build a business designed to last.

You don’t have to be perfect and you don’t have to do it all. But if you show up consistently, keep learning, and give yourself grace along the way, you’ll be amazed at what’s possible by the end of year one.

FAQ: Tips for a New Real Estate Agent

→ What should a new real estate agent focus on?

Daily lead generation, building relationships in your sphere, and learning your local market should be your top 3 priorities.

→ How can I get real estate clients in my first year?

Start with your SOI, post online consistently, follow up, and don’t be afraid to ask for referrals. People won’t remember you’re an agent if you don’t tell them.

→ How do I stay consistent as a new real estate agent?

Block time for lead gen, track your goals, and get support from a coach or community so you don’t burn out.

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Want Support Growing Your Real Estate Business in Your First Year?

Growth happens so much faster when you’re not doing it alone. Inside MOMward Real Estate Mastery, you’ll get weekly coaching calls, access to my full vault of trainings & templates, and a private community of women in real estate who share strategies and celebrate their wins together.

Whether you’re navigating your first listing or your first client meltdown, this space is built to support you with everything you need to make your first year in real estate your best yet.

👉 Click here to learn more about MOMward