Real Estate Agents and Brokers

The country's expanding population also creates additional demand for real estate services. A trend toward mobility, usually among Americans in their prime working years, indicates a continued need for real estate professionals. In addition, a higher percentage of affluence among this working group indicates that more Americans will be able to own their own homes.

An increase in agents' use of technology, such as computers, smartphones, and databases, has greatly improved productivity. Real estate Web sites now allow agents and customers to view multiple property listings without leaving the office. However, the use of this technology may eliminate marginal jobs, such as part-time workers, who may not be able to invest in this technology and compete with full-time agents. Job growth is potentially limited by the fact that many potential customers are conducting their own searches for property using the Internet.

Employment of real estate brokers and agents is projected to grow 7 percent through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. While this is faster than the average for all occupations, it is important to note that the field of real estate is easily affected by changes in the economy. Periods of prosperity bring a lot of business. Conversely, a downturn leads to a lower number of real estate transactions, resulting in fewer sales and commissions for agents and brokers. Beginning real estate agents and brokers face keen competition from those who are well established, and more experienced in the field. Ambitious people with strong selling and communication skills will fare the best in the job market.