Real estate brokers and sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. Although brokers and agents do similar work, brokers are licensed to manage their own real estate businesses. Sales agents must work with a real estate broker.

Most real estate brokers and sales agents are self-employed. Although they often work irregular hours, many are able to set their own schedules.

Every state requires real estate brokers and agents to be licensed. Requirements vary by state, but all states require candidates to be at least 18 or 19 years old, have a high school diploma, complete a number of hours of real estate courses, and pass a licensing exam.

The median annual wage for real estate brokers and sales agents was $45,610 in May 2015.

Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is projected to grow 3 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations. Employment generally follows the overall health of the economy and the real estate market.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for real estate brokers and sales agents.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of real estate brokers and sales agents with similar occupations.

Learn more about real estate brokers and sales agents by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.