Part-time real estate agent

Home sellers and buyers from your own circle and referrals, with commission paid when a deal closes.

A share of the commission on each closed deal after your brokerage's split. A handful of deals a year is realistic for some part-timers, but results vary a lot.

• Reliable communication, including evenings and weekends
• Building trust with people you already know
• Attention to detail on contracts and deadlines
• Managing your time around another job

• Licensing, fees and ongoing education rules differ by province, so check your regulator
• Clients expect quick replies, so make sure your day job allows for calls and showings
• Fixed costs such as dues and insurance continue even in months with no sales
• Your brokerage may set minimum activity or fee requirements, check before signing
• Check your employment contract for conflicts of interest or outside work limits

Startup costs are typically around $3,500 to $9,000, depending on your province, licensing and fees, and your brokerage. Fixed costs such as dues and insurance continue even in months when you make no sales.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $3,000, depending on how many clients you take on and when deals close. Commission is paid only when a deal closes, so income can vary from month to month.

Licensing, fees and ongoing education rules differ by province, so check your regulator. Also check whether your brokerage sets minimum activity or fee requirements, and whether your employment contract has conflict-of-interest or outside-work limits.