Thinking about jumping into real estate—but not quite ready to quit your day job? You’re not alone. Many people who begin a real estate career in Florida already have another job, family duties, or both.
The good news? Yes, you can absolutely start a real estate career while working full-time. You just need a clear plan, the right mindset, and a little support along the way.
At LEAP Orlando, we help students every day. They balance full-time jobs while earning their real estate license. Many of them go on to start successful careers.
Here’s how to make it work.
Start a Real Estate Career While Working Full-Time: Is It Really Doable?
Let’s be honest: It won’t be easy. You’ll have to juggle your current job, licensing requirements, and studying. But it’s 100% possible.
Nurses, teachers, office managers, and Uber drivers have all passed their exams while working full-time. They succeeded by being intentional with their time.
You don’t need to quit your job to get started. In fact, most people wait until after they’re licensed (and even after their first few closings) to go full-time in real estate.
Step 1: Find the Right Pre-License Program
If you’re working full-time, flexibility matters. You need a program that works with your schedule—not against it.
That’s why LEAP Academy offers:
- Online real estate courses you can take at night or on weekends
- Self-paced learning, so you control the speed
- Instructor support if you get stuck or need help with test prep
- Mobile-friendly access, so you can study during lunch breaks or commutes
Some students finish the 63-hour Florida course in just a few weeks. Others spread it out over a couple of months. There’s no “one way” to do it.
Step 2: Make a Study Plan That Fits Your Life
This is where the real magic happens: turning small pockets of time into progress.
Here are a few tips from our students:
- Wake up 30 minutes earlier and study before work
- Use your lunch break to review flashcards or quiz questions
- Dedicate 2–3 evenings a week for focused learning
- Block off weekend time (even 1–2 hours makes a big difference)
Consistency is more important than cramming. A little bit every day will get you to the finish line faster than you think.
Step 3: Set Realistic Expectations
Starting a real estate career while working full-time means setting boundaries and being patient with yourself.
- You might miss a few social events while you study.
- You might feel tired after a long day and still have to push through.
- You might take longer than someone without a full-time job—and that’s okay.
This isn’t about doing it fast. It’s about doing it right—and building something that lasts.
Step 4: Plan for What Happens After You’re Licensed
Getting your license is step one. But what happens next?
- Will you start part-time, handling clients after work or on weekends?
- Will you save up to eventually go full-time?
- Will you keep your day job and treat real estate as a side income?
There’s no one right answer. Many LEAP Academy graduates begin with part-time jobs. They move to full-time real estate after closing some deals and saving money.
We suggest picking a brokerage that helps part-time agents or has a mentorship program. This can help you start in the business.
Real Stories from LEAP Academy Students
“I work in healthcare full-time and did my real estate course in the evenings. It wasn’t always easy, but the flexibility made it possible. Now I’ve got my license, and I’m working open houses on weekends.” – Tracy, Kissimmee
“I studied for 90 minutes every morning before work. After two months, I passed my exam. I’m still at my office job, but now I have extra income from real estate on the side.” – Jeff, Sanford
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Do This
If you want to start a new chapter but can’t quit your job, you can begin real estate part-time. You can keep your job. You can study at your pace. You can take small steps toward something big.
At LEAP Orlando, we provide you with the tools and support you need. You can start a real estate career while working full-time. We help you succeed on your own terms.
Ready to get started on your time?
Join our flexible pre-license program at LEAP Orlando today. Start your new career without leaving your current job.
