Is Part Time Real Estate Worth It in 2025?

Real estate has long been considered a full time hustle. But in today’s dynamic landscape, more and more agents are asking a bold question: Can I make this work part time and still thrive?

The answer: Yes, but not without strategy.

Whether you're a busy parent, juggling another career, or simply testing the waters, becoming a part time real estate agent can unlock powerful opportunities if you know how to manage the trade offs.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to succeed as a part time real estate professional in 2025: the benefits, the challenges, the tactics and how to know when it’s time to go all in.

What Does “Part Time” Really Mean?

Let’s clear something up:

If you’re working real estate while juggling any other job, you’re part time even if you’re clocking 30+ hours a week.

Being part time isn’t about effort it’s about availability and expectations. It means:

• Managing client needs with limited hours.
• Building a pipeline while keeping another income stream.
• Scaling gradually while learning the ropes.

And that’s not a bad thing. In fact, many of the most successful agents started this way.

Why Agents Choose Part Time Real Estate

Here are the most common reasons agents go part time:

• Job Security: They can’t immediately give up their full time income.
• Parenting or caregiving responsibilities
• Testing the waters before committing full time.
• House flippers or investors who want more control in transactions.
• Remote workers who want to generate extra income while keeping their current job.

Part time real estate allows you to earn while you learn and build long term flexibility.

How to Get Started as a Part Time Agent

Becoming a part time agent follows the same process as going full time:

1. Take your real estate course
2. Pass the licensing exam
3. Find a brokerage that supports part time agents
4. Start lead generation and build your CRM
5. Commit to continuing education and license renewals

The only major difference? Time management.

Your schedule is now your lifeline. If you’re not planning every hour with intention, you’re risking burnout or stagnation.

Pros of Working Part Time in Real Estate

• ✅ Lower Pressure: You’re not depending on every commission to pay rent.
• ✅ Time to Learn: Master the market, scripts, and systems without rushing.
• ✅ Flexible Entry: No need to “go all in” immediately.
• ✅ Build on Your Terms: Test strategies, branding, and marketing at your pace.

Storytime: One agent worked weekends only for a year hosting open houses on Saturdays and following up Sundays. Within 14 months, she had closed 10 deals and transitioned into real estate full time with a full pipeline.

The Challenges of Being a Part Time Realtor

Let’s be honest it’s not all freedom and flexibility.

Here’s what you’ll need to overcome:

• ❌ Client Availability: You still need to answer texts at 9PM or meet inspectors midday.
• ❌ Slower Growth: You won’t scale as fast without consistent hours.
• ❌ Competing Commitments: Other jobs might conflict with client needs or open houses.
• ❌ Reputation Risk: Some clients might hesitate to hire someone they perceive as "less available".

To succeed, you must show up like a full time pro, even if you're part time on paper.

How Much Can You Earn Part Time?

According to surveys:

• Agents working under 20 hrs/week earn ~$26,000 annually.
• Agents working over 20 hrs/week average ~$46,000.

Those numbers grow with consistency, systems, and referrals.

If you only need to supplement income or are building toward full time this is a solid starting point.

Time Management: The Key to Part Time Success

Here’s a sample winning schedule for part time agents:

Time BlockFocus Area7–8 AMScript practice, local market updates8–10 AMProspecting (calls, texts, emails)Lunch breakQuick follow ups, social media postsEveningsAppointments, networking, lead nurturingWeekendsOpen houses, buyer tours, client calls

Tip: Batch your lead generation, automate your follow up, and use a CRM religiously. Every minute matters.

Should You Stay Part Time or Go Full Time?

Ask yourself:

• Am I hitting a ceiling with my current hours?
• Do I consistently close deals and want to grow faster?
• Can I survive financially for 6 months without income?
• Do I have systems ready to scale?

If the answer is yes, it might be time to transition to full time real estate.

Transitioning from Part Time to Full Time: A Game Plan

1. Set a revenue benchmark to trigger your move.
2. Clear financial runway (3–6 months of expenses saved).
3. Tell your broker they might send you more leads.
4. Start investing in marketing: SEO, social, paid ads.
5. Leverage your part time experience: Highlight your deals, testimonials, and growth.

Remember: you’re not starting from scratch you’re leveling up with a foundation in place.

Final Thoughts: Is Part Time Real Estate Right for You?

Being a part time agent doesn’t mean you’re any less capable.

It means you’re strategic.

In 2025, flexibility is a power tool if paired with commitment, systems, and a hunger to serve clients exceptionally well.

Start smart, grow intentionally, and know that real estate will return the energy you give it.

"Work it like it’s full time even if your hours say otherwise and success will follow."

FAQ

1. Can I be successful as a part time real estate agent? Yes many agents start part time and build strong businesses. Success depends on your time management, systems, and consistency.

2. How many hours should I dedicate per week? At least 10–20 hours weekly to gain traction. Prioritize prospecting, follow ups, and client appointments.

3. Will clients trust a part time agent? As long as you’re available, responsive, and professional most clients won’t care if you're part time.

4. What’s the biggest challenge for part time agents? Balancing another job while being present for clients. Flexible scheduling and clear communication are key.

5. When should I go full time in real estate? When you have a stable pipeline, financial cushion, and confidence in your ability to sustain deals consistently.