Finding a flexible, rewarding career with significant growth potential can be especially challenging for single moms. If you’re looking for a career change, becoming a real estate agent (called “broker” in Washington) could be the perfect solution. As a single mom real estate agent in Washington, you’ll have the unique opportunity to run your own business while enjoying the support of a community of service-minded professionals eager to help you succeed.
This blog will explore why real estate is a good job for single moms in Washington. We’ll also discuss potential challenges you may face and provide a step-by-step guide to help you get licensed in the state.
Key Takeaways
- Real Estate Offers Flexibility for Single Moms: As a single mom real estate agent in Washington, you can manage your work schedule around family commitments, including school drop-offs and activities.
- Lucrative Income Potential: Real estate can be a financially rewarding career, even part-time. With commission-based earnings, single moms can achieve financial independence, earning significant income by selling just a few homes annually.
- Parenting Skills Translate to Real Estate Success: Skills like time management, empathy, problem-solving, and networking—developed through motherhood—are invaluable for navigating the challenges of the real estate industry and building strong client relationships.
- Straightforward Licensing Process in Washington: Becoming a licensed real estate broker in Washington is accessible and affordable, requiring only 90 hours of pre-licensing education, passing an exam, and completing a background check—all of which can be accomplished in two to three months.
Why Real Estate Appeals to Single Moms
Is real estate a good job for single moms in Washington? You may already be drawn to the real estate industry because you’re passionate about home design, architecture, and helping others find their dream homes. While this passion alone is a compelling reason to become a real estate broker as a single mom, here are some additional benefits of pursuing a career in real estate in Washington.
Real estate brokers enjoy a flexible schedule.
A flexible work schedule is a game-changer for single moms. As a real estate broker, you can arrange client meetings and property showings around school drop-offs, pick-ups, and other family commitments. Administrative tasks, like responding to emails or preparing listings, can be completed when you’re at home with your kids.
Additionally, many real estate brokers work in teams, allowing you to count on teammates for property showings or client interactions when unavailable. By combining teamwork with effective time management, you can thrive as a real estate broker while staying fully present for your children when they need you most.
Real estate can be highly lucrative in Washington.
Most people won’t consider a career change without first understanding how much you’ll make in their new role. According to ZipRecruiter, real estate agents in Washington earn an average income of $97,169. Most real estate brokers work on commission, so the more you sell, the more you can earn.
Licensed real estate brokers have a wide variety of career path options.
One of the real estate industry’s best-kept secrets is the diverse career opportunities available to those with a Washington real estate license. While many brokers build successful careers in residential sales, others choose paths such as property management, leasing, or specialized niches like commercial real estate, investment properties, or luxury homes.
You can become a Washington real estate broker in two or three months.
Real estate brokers in Washington must earn a license, but the prerequisites are straightforward and don’t require a college degree. Unlike many other career training programs, the entire real estate licensing process in Washington can typically be completed in just two or three months. The courses and training are affordable and accessible to anyone with an internet connection.
Real estate helps you connect with your community.
Real estate is a natural fit for community-minded individuals, and as a single mom, it offers a unique opportunity to build meaningful relationships in your local area.
Real estate can be an excellent part-time gig in Washington.
Are you looking for a side gig to supplement your regular salary? Single moms working in real estate can bring in an excellent part-time income.
Most real estate brokers earn a commission of up to 3% of the property’s sale price, which they share with their real estate brokerage. The average Washington home value is $589,180, according to Zillow, January 2025. For the average home in Washington, you would earn $17,675 (which you would split with your brokerage). Real estate can be a lucrative side gig even if you only sell a few homes per year.
Unique Skills Moms Bring to the Real Estate Industry
Worried you don’t have the necessary qualifications to become a real estate agent as a single mom? While real estate school will teach you Washington laws and regulations, you may already possess many core skills from being a mom that can help you thrive in the industry.
- Time Management: Balancing family schedules, school activities, and household tasks gives moms exceptional organizational and multitasking skills. These abilities are vital for managing client meetings, property showings, and administrative duties.
- Empathy and Communication: Moms excel at understanding and addressing others’ needs, a critical trait for building trust with clients and guiding them through emotional decisions like buying or selling a home.
- Problem-Solving: From resolving sibling disputes to managing unexpected childcare issues, moms become natural problem solvers. This creativity and resourcefulness are invaluable in navigating challenges during real estate transactions.
- Patience and Resilience: Parenting teaches patience and the ability to stay calm under pressure—essential qualities when handling complex deals or unexpected hurdles in the real estate process.
- Networking: Moms are often excellent networkers. You’ve likely built relationships with teachers, coaches, local business owners, and other parents through school events, extracurricular activities, and community involvement. These connections can serve as a solid foundation for growing your client base as a real estate agent.
With these skills, a strong work ethic, and a passion for helping others, you’ll be well-positioned to build a thriving real estate business in Washington.
Challenges Single Moms May Face in Real Estate
No career is without its challenges. Here are a few things a single mom real estate agent in Washington should consider before diving into the industry:
- Inconsistent Income: As a real estate broker, your earnings will fluctuate. Some months will be highly lucrative, while others may be slower. Budgeting and a side gig can help you get through the lean months.
- Non-Traditional Hours: Clients often prefer to meet in the evenings or on weekends when they’re not working regular 9-to-5 jobs, which may require careful scheduling.
- Self-Employment Responsibilities: Like any business owner, you’ll need to handle quarterly tax payments and be responsible for your own health insurance and retirement planning.
Don’t let these challenges discourage you. With dedication, hard work, and a service-minded approach, single moms can excel in Washington’s real estate industry and build a fulfilling business.
Steps to Getting Started in Real Estate in Washington
Is real estate right for you? Here are the steps to get started.
Complete pre-licensing education
Enroll in the required 90-hour pre-licensing coursework with an approved real estate school. Choose between classroom learning, self-paced online courses, or livestream options.
Pass the Washington real estate exam
Pass both the state and national portions of the licensing exam. If needed, you can retake the exam for an additional fee. Exam prep courses, like those from Rockwell Institute, can help boost your confidence and chances of passing.
Submit fingerprints for a background check
After passing the exam, complete a background check by submitting fingerprints at an IdentoGo center.
Apply for your license
Submit your application and fees to the Washington State Department of Licensing to finalize the licensing process.
You can complete the real estate licensing process in WA in as fast as two or three months.
Are you a single mom in Washington needing a new career? Real estate is a great industry. Rockwell Institute has all the coursework and resources you need to help you earn your broker license. Get started on your new career today!
