20 Lessons Learned in 20 Years as a Real Estate Agent

After 20 years in real estate, I’ve learned SO much—both the kind of lessons you learn in class and the lessons only real life situations can teach you. Here’s a look at some of the biggest takeaways from my career:

1. The Most Asked Question I Get: “How’s the Market?”

This is hands-down the question I hear most often. It’s a conversation starter for sure, but it’s also a good reminder of how closely people watch the market, whether they’re actively buying or selling or they’re just curious.

2. Buyer’s Remorse Is Real

Even the most confident buyers can second-guess their decisions. Helping clients face their fears and feel secure in their choices is a big part of my job.

3. Every Day Is Different

No two transactions or days or clients are alike. This business keeps you on your toes and you never have time to get bored.

4. Technology Changes Constantly

From listing platforms to virtual tours, Bluetooth lockboxes to electronic signatures staying up-to-date with the newest tech is a non-stop job..

5. People Always Need to Buy and Sell

No matter the market conditions—up, down, or steady—life events drive real estate transactions sometimes whether you’re ready or not.

6. The big D’s are the the drivers

Death, debt, divorce, dreams, and downsizing: are behind nearly every transaction.

7. Septic Systems & Perc Tests

20 years ago I had no idea I would know so much about septics and even know how to do a perc test.

8. Licensing Classes Don’t Prepare You for Real Agent Life

You learn the laws and technical aspects in class, but the real education begins when you start helping clients buy and sell properties.

9. My Best Advocates Aren’t Always My Clients

Sometimes, the strongest referrals come from people who know and respect your work—even if they’ve never hired you directly.

10. Repeat Business Is the Best Business

There’s no better feeling than a past client calling to say they trust you so much they need you again.

11. Negotiating Should Be a Win/Win

The best deals leave everyone satisfied and feeling like they’ve gained something. They’re also the deals that are easiest to work thru.

12. You Work 24/7

Real estate doesn’t come with a 9-to-5 schedule. That can be a blessing and a curse. Nights, weekends, and holidays are fair game.

13. Miles on Miles on Miles

From showings to inspections, continuing education classes to closings… I average about 32,000 miles a year.

14. You CAN Control Your Schedule

You have the freedom to set your own pace—but your income depends on how hard you work so real estate isn’t for the faint of heart.

15. Agents Come in All Types

There are good agents, great agents, and those who aren’t as dedicated as the rest of us. There are new agents, old agents and lots of us in the middle—patience and an open mind go a long way.

16. You Wear Many Hats

Agent, counselor, negotiator, marketer, problem solver, and sometimes even a shoulder to cry on—REALTORS do it all.

17. Be a Pessimistic Optimist

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst, and you’ll weather anything the real estate world can throw at you.

18. SO Much Paperwork

Even with technology, the volume of forms, contracts, and disclosures feels endless and that’s before we get to the closing table!

19. Tools in Your Vehicle

I didn’t foresee having my own set of tools in my vehicle—screwdrivers, utility knife, zip ties, nuts, bolts, screws, WD40, duct tape, electrical tape, two sledgehammers…

20. I ❤️ Acreages

From zoning classifications to well and septic systems, from barns and fence lines to CRP payments and Forest Reserve tax exemptions I love helping clients buy and sell acreages.

Okay, okay I couldn’t stop at 20… here’s 2 bonus items!

21. Who You Work With Matters

The team you choose, from lenders to home inspectors, title companies to septic installers can make or break a transaction. Some of the most important people though are your broker, office staff and behind the scenes miracle workers. Choose wisely.

22. I Still Love My Job

Through all the ups and downs, challenges, and rewards, I wouldn’t trade this career for anything in the world. I love my job.

Here’s to 20 years of learning—and hopefully many more!

Thinking about buying or selling in central Iowa? I’d love to help you navigate the process. Let’s talk! 😉