Career Development•2025-01-02•9 min read

    10 Mistakes First-Year Real Estate Agents Make (And How to Avoid Them)

    By Bean Group Team

    10 Mistakes First-Year Real Estate Agents Make (And How to Avoid Them)

    The first year in real estate is make-or-break. Industry statistics show that 87% of new agents fail within five years, with most dropping out in year one. Understanding common mistakes—and how to avoid them—dramatically improves your odds of success.

    The First-Year Reality

    87% of agents don't make it to year five. But those who avoid common mistakes and build proper foundations often go on to six-figure careers.

    Mistake #1: Treating Real Estate Like a Hobby

    ✗Working "when you have time" instead of dedicated hours
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Block specific hours for prospecting, lead follow-up, and skill development—even if you're part-time. Consistency beats intensity.

    Mistake #2: Neglecting Lead Follow-Up

    ✗Following up once and moving on when there's no immediate response
    ✓
    The Fix:

    80% of sales require 5+ contacts. Implement a systematic follow-up sequence: same day, day 2, day 4, week 2, then monthly. Use a CRM religiously.

    Mistake #3: No Lead Generation System

    ✗Waiting for business to come to you; relying solely on sphere
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Choose 2-3 lead generation pillars and commit to them: open houses, geographic farming, social media, networking events, online leads. Work them consistently.

    Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Brokerage

    ✗Choosing based on commission split alone without considering support
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Evaluate training, mentorship, technology, culture, and support systems. A 90% split means nothing if you're not closing deals. The right environment accelerates success.

    Mistake #5: Underpricing to Get Listings

    ✗Taking overpriced listings to "get the business" then watching them expire
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Present market data confidently. Walk away from unrealistic sellers. One overpriced listing damages your reputation more than no listing at all.

    Mistake #6: Not Investing in Education

    ✗Thinking passing the exam means you're ready to sell
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Licensing teaches compliance, not sales. Invest in negotiation training, scripts practice, and market knowledge. Top agents never stop learning.

    Mistake #7: Poor Time Management

    ✗Spending hours on admin tasks instead of dollar-productive activities
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Time-block your calendar: lead generation first (morning), client meetings (midday), administrative (end of day). Protect prospecting hours fiercely.

    Mistake #8: Not Building a Database

    ✗Keeping contacts in your phone without a system
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Your database is your business. Add every contact to your CRM with notes and follow-up dates. Aim for 200+ contacts in year one.

    Mistake #9: Failing to Set Financial Expectations

    ✗Expecting immediate income without reserves
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Plan for 3-6 months before your first closing. Have 6-12 months of expenses saved. Real estate income is delayed—plan accordingly.

    Mistake #10: Going It Alone

    ✗Trying to figure everything out yourself instead of seeking help
    ✓
    The Fix:

    Find a mentor, join a team with training, or align with agents you admire. Learning from others' experience shortens your path to success.

    How Bean Group Helps New Agents Succeed

    Our Level 1 Associate program addresses every common first-year challenge:

    ✓Structured Mentorship – Weekly accountability with experienced agents who've been where you are
    ✓CRM & Systems – Ready-to-use technology that handles follow-up systematically
    ✓Lead Opportunities – Access to leads while you build your sphere
    ✓Training Library – Continuous education on scripts, negotiation, and market expertise
    ✓$4K Cap Advantage – Keep more of what you earn to reinvest in your growth

    The agents who succeed aren't necessarily the most talented—they're the ones who avoid predictable mistakes and commit to consistent action.

    Ready to start your real estate career the right way?

    Let's discuss how Bean Group can accelerate your success.

    Ready to Take the Next Step?

    Let's discuss how Bean Group can help you achieve your real estate goals.

    Schedule a Call

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