The economy is still spinning as the banks and lenders wrestle with a glut of property investments. Sound like doom and gloom? Not necessarily. Reports are showing that there really are definite signs of an improving economy and a return to a healthy real estate market.

In July, residential prices in the U.S. recorded a quarterly gain. According to PropertyWire, U.S. property prices rose 1.7% in the first quarter of 2009, marking the first gain since 2006. And in California, a survey by the California Association of Realtors showed that residential property sales increased 27% through the end of 2008 and into the beginning of 2009. What does this all mean? Stated simply – there is a lot to be optimistic about in the real estate market. There are more homes on the market at affordable prices and homebuyers are taking their time to find the right real estate agent and peruse the market for just the right buy.

Real estate agents are responsible for helping clients purchase and sell real estate. They need to have a strong awareness of the local communities in order to help match prospective buyers with their preferred type of home and location. Real estate agents are in charge of the contracts, negotiations and legal requisites of each sale. They must have a strong knowledge of local zoning and tax laws as well as being responsible for organizing property inspections.

If you want to become a part of this lucrative and successful industry, you need to be committed. Becoming an agent is not an overnight process; it can take up to 3 to 5 years to firmly launch and make a name for yourself. You may have to work with little to no income in the beginning, so it’s important to have some sort of financial backing behind you. You’ll be required to pay to advertise your listings, as well as taking classes to learn the ins and outs of the business.

You need to become licensed. This is a requirement across all states, however these requirements can vary from state to state i.e. some states demand future real estate agents pass a written exam. You can find out your state’s requirements by contacting your local board of realtors or state division of real estate.

A big part of becoming a successful real estate agent is marketing. You need to promote yourself and get your name out there. Consider personalized magnets, calendars, direct mail, and paid advertisements around your local township.

There are other job opportunities in real estate besides becoming an agent. For instance, you could become a broker and assist customers with the purchase and sale of apartment and office buildings, retail shops, warehouses, shopping centers, and industrial parks.