Why Most New Realtors® Struggle in Their First Six Months

Why Most New Realtors® Struggle in Their First Six Months — And How the Right Support Can Change Everything

The First 6 Months: A Make-or-Break Phase for New Realtors®

Over the course of my real estate career, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring more than 200 Realtors®—many of whom either began or restarted their careers under my guidance. Some were just starting out, eager but unsure. Others were on the brink of giving up after trying every possible route with no success. Today, nearly all of them are thriving, earning six-figure incomes—and some, seven.

So what made the difference?

Let me walk you through a story—one that’s far too common—using John, a fictional character based on real-life situations I’ve seen repeatedly.

John’s Journey: From Hopeful Beginnings to Harsh Realities

John always admired the real estate lifestyle. His Realtor® friends drove luxury cars, lived comfortably, and always seemed to have flexible schedules. He had bought and sold properties a few times himself and figured, “Why not save that commission and earn some extra money?”

With a decent job already, John decided to get licensed and take on real estate part-time. But like many new agents, he felt nervous about telling too many people—especially colleagues at work—for fear it might affect his position. Quietly, he began building a mental list of contacts and potential leads.

A License, a Brokerage, and a False Start

When John finally got licensed, he interviewed a few brokerages—as he was told to do in class—and chose one with hundreds (even thousands) of agents, based solely on the commission split and a promise of “top-tier training.”

Unfortunately, what John didn’t know was that over 95% of the agents at that brokerage weren’t even closing deals consistently. But he was optimistic, waiting eagerly for his network to reach out.

Then came the shock.

One of John’s close friends invited him to a housewarming party—for a home he had just purchased. When John asked why he wasn’t chosen as the Realtor®, his friend replied, “I didn’t even know you were in real estate.”

That’s when John realized: he’d been a secret agent. Literally.

A second blow came when John’s own cousin bought a house through someone else, explaining that he “didn’t want to mix family with business”—but the real reason was lack of confidence in John’s ability.

No Mentorship. No Guidance. No Direction.

Disheartened, John approached his Broker of Record and some senior agents in the office, only to be met with vague advice, discouragement, or worse—indifference. He was told there was no need to come into the office. The training sessions were generic and outdated. Most days, John sat at home, unsure of what to do.

Eventually, like many before him, he gave up and went back to his 9-to-5 job.

What Went Wrong?

John wasn’t lazy. He wasn’t untalented. He didn’t lack motivation.

What he lacked was a proper platform.

He needed structured guidance, daily accountability, real mentorship, and a clear action plan. The first six months in real estate are critical—this is when confidence is built, systems are learned, and habits are formed.

Without the right environment, even the most hardworking individual can lose steam.

Ask Yourself These Questions

If you’re a newly licensed Realtor® (or know someone who is), ask yourself:

1. Do you wake up with no idea what to do each day?

2. Does your brokerage tell you there’s no need to come into the office?

3. Is there a mentor who will accompany you on buyer/seller appointments for the first few months?

4. Do you rarely meet your Broker of Record?

5. Has no one ever encouraged you to elevate your business to the next level?

6. Are your training sessions uninspiring or optional?

7. Are your friends in other brokerages thriving while you feel stuck?

If you’re saying “yes” to most of these… it’s time to rethink your strategy.

Your Platform Determines Your Performance

Talent and hustle are important—but without the right tools, mentorship, and business model, you’re running uphill with no map.

Choosing the right brokerage isn’t just about splits or logos—it’s about who’s going to walk the path with you.

Look for:

• A daily business structure and support system

• Mentors who offer shadowing and real-time advice

• Training that’s modern, market-relevant, and hands-on

• A collaborative environment that pushes you forward

Final Thoughts

Real estate can absolutely change your life—but only if you’re set up to succeed. Don’t let the first six months be the reason you walk away from what could be a six- or seven-figure career.

If you’re a Realtor® who’s ready to grow (or restart), find a platform that actually builds people—not just recruits them.

Because even the smartest professionals need a mentor to reach the top.

Interested in learning how a performance-driven brokerage model can fast-track your success? Reach out today for a no-pressure career consultation. Let’s build your future in real estate—the right way.