Retirement looks different for everyone. While some are ready to kick back and relax, others feel energized by the idea of a new adventure. If you’re looking for a meaningful, flexible, and potentially lucrative second act, real estate might be calling your name.

Whether you’re seeking extra income, a renewed sense of purpose, or a way to stay active and social, becoming a real estate agent in retirement could be the perfect fit. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of launching a second career, why real estate is a great option, and how to get licensed in Ohio.

Key Takeaways

• Rediscover Purpose and Passion: A new career can bring meaning, structure, and joy to your retirement years.
• Real Estate Offers Flexibility: Work part-time or full-time on your own terms—and on your own schedule.
• Boost Your Finances: The average income of a full-time real estate agent in Ohio is $165,250.
• Getting Licensed Is Doable: You can become a real estate agent in just a few months.

Why Start a Second Career in Retirement

Many older adults find fulfillment in trying something new and challenging during retirement. Here are some of the top reasons seniors are rejoining the workforce:

Pursuing passions

After years of working to support others, retirement offers a chance to do what truly excites you. If you’ve always been interested in real estate, now’s your time to explore it.

Finding purpose

A new career can bring back that feeling of accomplishment and daily motivation. Helping people find homes is deeply rewarding and provides a strong sense of purpose.

Staying sharp

Real estate keeps your mind active. From learning licensing material to negotiating deals, you’ll continue to grow and challenge yourself.

Building connections

You’ll interact with clients, brokers, and peers, making it easy to stay socially engaged and feel connected to your community.

Supplementing income

Whether you’re saving for travel, helping family, or simply padding your retirement fund, real estate can be a smart financial move.

Part-Time Real Estate Careers for Seniors in Ohio

You don’t have to work full-time to succeed in real estate. Many retirees choose to do real estate part-time, setting a schedule that works around other priorities.

In Ohio, real estate agents typically work on commission, which is usually around 3% of the property’s cost. With the average home price around $241,500 (Zillow, June 2025), you don’t need to close many deals each year to make a meaningful income.

Flexibility in Real Estate Careers for Seniors

One of the top perks of a real estate career is the freedom it offers. You set your own hours, choose your niche, and decide how much you want to work.

While many clients are available on evenings and weekends, retirees may prefer to specialize in niches that operate during standard business hours. Consider:

• Working with downsizing seniors
• Focusing on vacation properties or commercial spaces
• Partnering with other agents for showings and client support

Real estate as a side gig in retirement is more than possible. It’s often ideal.

Financial Considerations and Income Potential

There are some up-front costs to become a real estate agent in Ohio, including classes, fees, and exam preparation. Expect to invest $1,400 to $2,000 to get started.

Once licensed, you may also pay for:

• Local MLS and REALTOR® membership dues
• Website and marketing materials
• Broker desk or tech fees

But the return on investment can be well worth it. The average income you could get as a licensed real estate agent in Ohio is $165,250 per year, based on a 2024 survey of Hondros College alumni. Part-time agents report earning $46,250 in Ohio. That’s a great way to support your lifestyle without clocking in 40 hours a week.

Am I Too Old to Get Into Real Estate?

Absolutely not! In fact, retirees often have a unique advantage when stepping into the real estate world. You’ve spent a lifetime building transferrable skills and relationships, and both can give you a head start.

• Strong communication and listening
• Organizational and time management skills
• Problem-solving and negotiation experience
• Empathy and a service-oriented mindset

Plus, many seniors have deep roots in their communities. You’ve built connections through work, family, volunteering, and social circles, giving you a built-in network of potential clients and referrals. That’s gold in the real estate business.

Your life experience is not just relevant, it’s a superpower. Clients value agents who bring wisdom, patience, and a calm, steady presence to every transaction. If you’ve ever helped someone make a big decision, comforted a friend, or guided a team, you’re more prepared than you might think.

How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Ohio

Becoming a real estate agent in retirement is easier than you might think. The entire process can be completed in two to three months. Here’s how:

• Complete 100 hours of required Ohio pre-licensing education
• Choose a sponsoring broker to work under after licensure
• Apply to take the exam and submit a background check
• Pass the Ohio real estate exam (state and national portions)

At Hondros College, we offer everything you need to succeed—including live, online, and self-paced course options to fit your lifestyle.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Second Career

If you’re ready for a new challenge and want to make your retirement years even more rewarding, real estate could be the perfect fit. You’ve already built a lifetime of experience, now turn that into a flexible and fulfilling new career.

Call Hondros College at 1-888-HONDROS (466-3767) or connect with an educational advisor today.

Disclaimer: The Salary Guide is for general informational purposes only, based on an August 2024 survey of Hondros College alumni and publicly available industry sources. While Hondros College strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, reliability, or applicability of the information. Earnings and outcomes vary widely based on factors like location, experience, and market conditions and should not be considered guarantees. This guide does not constitute professional advice. Users should consult additional sources for personalized guidance.

Explore a New Chapter: Get the Real Estate Career Switch Guide