Before you dive headfirst into this career, let’s have a real chat. Not the sugar-coated version you see online. Not the “I made R100K in 30 days” highlight reels. Just the truth. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear idea if real estate is actually the right move for you, or if you’re better off running in the opposite direction.
The Reality Check No One Gives You
Let me start by saying that real estate isn’t for everyone. And that’s okay. But going into this career with your eyes wide open will save you from a whole lot of unnecessary stress, wasted time, and financial strain.
Let’s break it down. The good, the bad, and everything in between.
The Good Stuff
1. Flexibility
Being your own boss is one of the biggest draws. No time clock and no micromanagement. But flexibility is a double-edged sword. Without self-discipline, it’s the fastest way to go broke.
If you treat this business like a side hustle, that’s exactly how it’ll pay you. The most successful agents treat real estate like a full-time job, even if they’re still juggling other commitments. The goal is to find the balance between freedom and structure.
2. Unlimited Income Potential
There’s no income ceiling in real estate. I’ve seen agents hit six or even seven figures in their first year. But I’ve also seen more agents struggle to crack R30,000 per month. The difference comes down to systems, support, and work ethic.
3. Human Connection and Impact
If you love people and want to make a real difference in their lives, this is your lane. You’re not just selling property. You’re guiding families through major life decisions. When you get it right, it’s deeply rewarding.
4. Personal Growth
This career will stretch you in every direction. You’ll learn more about yourself than you ever expected. The person you are today won’t be the same person you’ll be after 12 months in real estate. And that’s the best part.
5. Creative Freedom
Real estate is a creative business. From marketing strategies to personal branding and content creation, you’ve got the freedom to build a business that feels like you. Want to go all in on social media? Do it. Prefer old-school networking? That works too.
The Hard Truths
Let’s talk about the side most people don’t post about.
1. Income is Unpredictable
One month you could earn R200K. The next? Zero. If you’re used to a fixed paycheck, this can be a serious adjustment. You need to manage your money carefully and build a financial buffer.
2. It’s Incredibly Competitive
It feels like everyone has a real estate license these days. Your cousin. Your Uber driver. That guy from gym. Getting licensed is easy, but standing out is the hard part.
Being “nice” won’t cut it. You need strategy, presence, and positioning.
3. It’s Not a 9-to-5
Expect to work long days, nights, and weekends, especially in your first year. This is a business you build from the ground up, and it doesn’t come with shortcuts.
4. You’ll Be Uncomfortable Often
Cold calling. Video content. Learning new tech. Public speaking. There will be something you hate doing, and you’ll have to do it anyway. Discomfort is part of the process.
5. The Market Is Always Changing
One minute the market’s hot. The next it’s dead quiet. Interest rates shift. Regulations change. Strategies that worked last year suddenly flop. If you can’t adapt fast, you’ll get left behind.
So, Who Thrives in This Industry?
If you’ve got discipline, you’re off to a good start.
If you can delay gratification and stay consistent even when results aren’t instant, you’ll go far.
If you’re resilient, adaptable, curious, and care about people, you’ll thrive.
And if you’re willing to take full ownership of your success with no excuses, you’ll build a business that changes your life.
Real Estate Might Not Be for You If…
- You crave stability more than opportunity
- You need someone constantly checking in to keep you accountable
- You want instant results
- You’re in it just for the money, not the people
- You tend to shift blame when things go wrong
No shame in that. It’s just not the right fit for everyone.
What If You’re Starting Part-Time?
That’s totally okay. But here’s the key: use your time wisely.
If you’re working 9 to 5, your evenings and weekends need to be used for prospecting, content creation, and networking. No Netflix. No endless scrolling. Hustle now, rest later.
Set a clear goal for yourself, something like “Once I’ve done X number of deals, I’m going full-time.” Without that, you’ll stay stuck in limbo.
Ready to Take the Leap?
If you’ve read this far, you’re probably serious. Here’s what to do next:
✅ Start the Process
Look up the steps to get qualified for your province. Begin the paperwork. Get clarity on what’s required.
✅ Build a Game Plan
Figure out your budget, schedule, and brand. Don’t wing it. Treat this like the business it is.
✅ Surround Yourself with the Right People
Your environment matters. The brokerage, mentors, and team you choose will either set you up for growth or keep you spinning your wheels.
Already a Qualified Agent?
If you’re already in the industry but feeling stuck, underpaid, or unsupported, let’s talk.
I’ve partnered with agents across South Africa who were hustling at traditional brokerages without seeing the results they deserved. Once they had the right mentorship, systems, and flexibility, they started thriving.
And you can too.
