Balancing a Full-Time Job Overseas and Being a Real Estate Agent: A Guide for OFWs
Being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is not just about earning money to support your family; it’s about securing a better future for yourself and your loved ones. But what if you could maximize your earnings and create long-term wealth while continuing to work abroad? One option that is gaining popularity among OFWs is becoming a real estate agent on the side.
While juggling a full-time job overseas can be challenging, the real estate business offers flexibility and opportunities for those looking to earn extra income and build a sustainable future. Here’s how you can balance being an OFW with a real estate career and why it could be the perfect side hustle for you.
Why Real Estate?
Real estate is one of the most lucrative industries, offering the potential for significant financial gains through commissions and property investments. For OFWs, real estate can be an excellent way to supplement your income, build wealth, and plan for your return to the Philippines.
Real estate also offers flexibility in terms of working hours. Whether you’re managing your property investments or assisting clients, you can schedule your tasks around your full-time job. Many successful real estate agents work remotely or during their free time, making it possible to balance both commitments.
1. Start Small and Build Your Knowledge
If you’re new to real estate, the first step is to get familiar with the industry. Start by researching the real estate market in the Philippines, especially in the areas where you are interested in selling properties. You can also take online courses or attend webinars to learn the basics of property sales, negotiation, and marketing strategies.
In the Philippines, becoming a licensed real estate agent requires passing a real estate exam and obtaining a license from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). For many OFWs, this is the first step toward entering the field. It may seem like a lot of work, but with determination and time management, it’s entirely possible to achieve.
2. Leverage Your Network
One of the most powerful assets for any real estate agent is a solid network. As an OFW, you’re already part of a global community of fellow Filipinos, many of whom are potential clients or investors looking to buy property back home. Use social media, community events, and online platforms to connect with potential clients who are interested in investing in real estate in the Philippines.
You can also leverage your family and friends back home to help spread the word about your real estate services. Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool, and your trusted circle can refer you to clients looking for properties to buy or rent.
3. Manage Your Time Effectively
Balancing a full-time job and a real estate career requires excellent time management skills. As an OFW, you may have a demanding work schedule, so it’s crucial to allocate specific hours for your real estate tasks. You could dedicate weekends or evenings to real estate activities like contacting leads, attending online meetings, and following up with clients.
Since much of real estate work can be done remotely, you can manage your business even from abroad. Communication tools like email, video calls, and messaging apps will help you stay connected with clients and colleagues in the Philippines.
4. Build Your Online Presence
In today’s digital age, having an online presence is essential for real estate agents. Create a professional website or social media pages to showcase your services, listings, and successful transactions. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn can help you attract potential clients, as many people turn to these platforms for property information.
You can also take advantage of real estate portals and online listings to advertise properties and reach a wider audience. The more visible you are online, the more opportunities you’ll have to generate leads and close deals.
5. Understand the Philippine Real Estate Market
Real estate markets can vary significantly from one country to another, so it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the Philippine real estate market. Pay attention to trends in property demand, government regulations, and key developments that could affect property prices.
Researching new projects, developments, and infrastructure changes in the Philippines will help you stay informed and offer the best advice to your clients. Being knowledgeable about the market gives you a competitive edge and builds trust with potential buyers and sellers.
6. Set Realistic Expectations and Goals
As an OFW with a full-time job, you may not be able to commit to full-time real estate sales right away. That’s okay. Set realistic goals that align with your available time and energy. Focus on building your client base, gaining experience, and expanding your knowledge before scaling your real estate business.
With time and experience, you may be able to transition into real estate full-time when you’re ready to return to the Philippines or if you choose to stay in the industry long-term. Until then, treat it as a side hustle that can supplement your income and grow into something bigger.
7. Benefits of Being a Real Estate Agent as an OFW
- Extra Income: Earning commissions from property sales can significantly increase your financial resources. It’s a way to maximize your earnings while working abroad.
- Long-Term Investment: Real estate allows you to build wealth over time through property investments. You can earn rental income or capitalize on property appreciation when you decide to sell.
- Flexibility: Real estate offers a flexible schedule that you can adjust around your primary job. Work as much or as little as you want, depending on your capacity.
- Personal Growth: Being a real estate agent challenges you to learn new skills, such as sales, negotiation, and marketing. It’s a great opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Conclusion: Real Estate as a Path to Financial Freedom
Becoming a real estate agent while working overseas as an OFW may seem daunting, but with the right mindset, time management, and strategies, it’s entirely possible to succeed. It’s an opportunity to earn extra income, gain financial independence, and secure a better future for you and your family.
I’ve been connected to a few real estate developers and my recent one is with SMDC Properties Philippines. Started in 2018 as a partner where i just refer possible clients in exchange for commissions, then became a full time agent and now one of the directors of SMDC Properties. And all this happened while having a full time day job working overseas. I was employed on two different companies in two different countries full time. Never in my wildest dreams that this would be possible but i’m telling you, it can be done!
If you’re interested in real estate but are unsure where to start, begin by educating yourself, leveraging your network, and setting realistic goals. In time, this side hustle could transform into a full-fledged career, giving you the freedom to build wealth and achieve your dreams.
Interested? Let’s talk!
IAMTITOTAKA