While the costs of being a real estate agent may not seem high, expenses can add up quickly and significantly impact an agent's bottom line. Transportation costs alone from driving to show properties and meet clients averages over $1,700 per year. Additional necessary expenses include auto insurance, office supplies, software, marketing costs such as websites and online advertising, continuing education requirements, broker fees, and licenses and permits. The document outlines the various operating, transportation, marketing, education and other costs agents face on a regular basis, with estimates for each expense category, emphasizing that the total cost of doing business as a real estate agent is increasing rapidly.
