Part One – Introduction to the Real Estate Industry

Part one of the book provides an overview of real estate and real estate careers. Chapter 1 introduces the basics of real estate as well as of the real estate industry. Chapter 2 looks at the different types of residential as well as commercial real estate. Chapter 3 provides a survey of 35 real estate and related careers.

Part Two – Introduction to Real Estate Sales

Part two looks at what successful real estate agents do, from establishing property values to closing deals. Chapter 4 looks at valuation (pricing) of real estate. Chapter 5 looks at how agents handle occupied properties they list for sale. Chapter 6 looks at how agents handle vacant properties. Chapter 7 looks at what agents do to market properties. Chapter 8 looks at how agents manage offers. Chapter 9 looks at how agents handle closings (escrow).

This part of the book is laden with technical details and procedures. They are provided to you so you can determine if real estate sales are genuinely for you. If you find the particulars manageable and of interest to you, then you can use this portion of the book as a reference guide as you pursue this career. Much of the discussion in this part of the book is based on California real estate law and may or may not apply in your state.

Part Three – What It Takes to Succeed in Real Estate Sales

Part three looks at what it takes to be a successful real estate agent. Chapter 10 looks at the skills you should possess as an agent. Chapter 11 looks at how to choose the right brokerage to join. Chapter 12 looks at how you should market yourself, your brand, and your services as an agent once you join a brokerage.

Part Four – Additional Real Estate Careers

Part four provides a more in-depth look at additional career opportunities in and related to the real estate industry. Chapter 13 looks at real estate finance. Chapter 14 looks at property management. Chapter 15 looks at real estate auctions. Chapter 16 looks at 1031 exchanges. Chapter 17 looks at residential leasing. Chapter 18 looks at commercial leasing. Finally, Chapter 19 looks at investing in real estate.