A Day in the Life of a Part-time Real Estate Agent

Thinking about getting your real estate license but not ready to go all in? A part-time real estate career could be the perfect fit. Whether you’re testing the waters, juggling another job, or simply craving more flexibility, this inside look shows what a typical day really feels like when you’re working real estate on your terms.

What Does a Part-Time Real Estate Agent Actually Do?

If you're considering becoming a real estate agent but not ready to go all in, you might wonder: What does a typical day look like if I'm only doing this part-time? Can you juggle clients, paperwork, and showings with another job or a busy life?

The answer: Yes. But like any side hustle with real income potential, it takes consistency, smart planning, and a little hustle.

We're breaking down what your daily (and weekly) routine might actually look like, how much time you'll spend on core tasks, and how real part-time agents make it work.

Morning: Lead Generation and Follow-Up (30–60 Minutes)

Most part-time agents use mornings to get ahead before the rest of their day kicks in. This time is usually blocked off for lead generation, the lifeblood of your business.

What That Might Look Like:

• Checking your CRM for tasks or follow-ups

• Texting or emailing leads from the day before

• Posting a market tip or listing photo to social media

• Touching base with your "sphere," friends, neighbors, or former coworkers
  
  

Even 30 minutes a day can make a significant difference. The key is consistency.

Tools like CRMs and social platforms can help you stay top-of-mind with buyers and sellers, especially when paired with consistent lead generation tacticsLead Generation Tools Tips Real Estate Agent Blog that fit your daily schedule.

Midday: Admin Tasks or Learning (20–45 Minutes)

If you're working from home, on a lunch break, or have a quiet moment during the day, this is your window for quick admin wins or learning.

Admin Tasks You Can Tackle Quickly:

• Updating your CRM

• Reviewing market data or price changes

• Scheduling showings for the weekend

• Creating a digital flyer or listing post

• Watching a short webinar or continuing education module

This part of the day is flexible, so you can fit it in where you can. Many agents use mobile-friendly tools to handle all this from their phones. From signing documents to managing transactions, real estate techReal Estate Agents Ultimate Guide Proptech Blog is helping part-time agents stay efficient from anywhere.

Evening: Client Work and Showings (60–120 Minutes)

Most part-time agents stack appointments in the evening. Buyers and sellers are usually available after work too, so it’s a win-win.

Typical After-Hours Activities:

• Showing homes

• Listing presentations

• Buyer consultations

• Writing or reviewing offers

• Calling leads who requested info that day

If you're working with just a few clients at a time, you can often fit everything into two or three evenings per week. And with tools like DocuSign and Dotloop, you can keep deals moving even after hours.

Weekends: Open Houses and Field Time (3–6 Hours)

Weekends are your most valuable window as a part-time agent. It’s when buyers are out, sellers are prepping, and real estate activity peaks.

What You Might Do:

• Host or co-host an open house

• Preview homes for clients

• Meet a photographer at a listing

• Network with agents or prospects at a local event

Sundays are often a planning day. Agents use this time to draft newsletters, schedule social posts, or organize their calendar for the week ahead.

A Realistic Weekly Flow

A typical week might include three short work sessions during the week and one longer block on the weekend. Flexibility is key. You’re not expected to work every day, but when you do, make the most of it.

Common Tools Part-Time Agents Rely On

You don’t need a big tech stack, but these tools help keep part-timers productive:

• CRM: Follow Up Boss, Wise Agent, Zoho CRM

• E-signature: DocuSign, Dotloop, Adobe Sign

• Scheduling: Calendly or Google Calendar

• MLS Access: Local board or brokerage-provided

• Social Posting: Canva + Meta Business Suite

• Mobile Scanner: Adobe Scan or Genius Scan

CRM toolsBest Real Estate Crm Theclose.com and e-signature softwareBest Electronic Signature Software Theclose.com are especially helpful if you're managing clients during your off hours.

Can You Actually Make Money Part-Time?

Yes, but it depends on how active you are. The average commission on a home sale ranges from 5% to 6% of the sale price, typically split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. On a $300,000 sale, that’s around $9,000 per agent. Close a few deals a year, and it adds up.

Real estate continues to stand out as a side hustle for its income potential and scheduling freedomReal Estate Side Hustle Flexibility And High Income Potential Blog, especially for those with a solid referral network or marketing system in place.

Challenges to Expect (And How to Handle Them)

The Reality:

• Clients may want daytime availability

• It takes longer to build momentum

• Balancing multiple roles can lead to burnout

Smart Fixes:

• Co-list or partner with a full-time agent

• Use automation for lead nurturing and follow-up

• Be upfront with clients about availability

• Set boundaries—and block focused time on your calendar

Many part-time agents use their early wins to test the waters before transitioning into real estate full timeTransitioning Real Estate Career Step Step Blog, but there's no single path. You get to decide how far you want to take it.

FAQs About the Part-Time Real Estate Schedule

Do I need to be available during the day?
Not necessarily. Most clients are free on evenings and weekends—just be transparent upfront.

Can I keep my full-time job and still be effective?
Yes. Many agents balance real estate with full-time work, childcare, or other commitments.

Is real estate worth doing part-time?
It can be. Many agents use it to generate income, build a network, or explore a future career change.

What if I only have 10 hours a week?
Start there. Focus on lead gen and client care. Systems and consistency make a bigger impact than sheer hours.

Real Estate On Your Terms

Being a part-time agent doesn’t mean you’re less serious or successful. It means you’re building a business around your life, not the other way around.

With the right tools, habits, and support, you can start small and build at your own pace—whether that’s a few deals a year or a stepping stone to full-time freedom.

Want to Try a Day Like This for Real?

Your first step is licensing. Choose a flexible, online program you can do after work or on weekends—one that’s mobile-friendly and state-approved.

Ready to start? Get licensed with AceableAgentReal Estate License.