According to the University of Virginia's Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service the state’s 8.72 million population is growing and becoming more diverse. Slow growth is expected all the way until 2040.
That’s great news for the 36,000 Realtors in Virginia. It means there should be even more opportunities to sell homes and more niches that you can corner. For the go-getters and hustlers, Virginia is the perfect place to start or expand a real estate career.
Breaking Down the Number of Virginia Real Estate Agents
As the real estate industry transitions, agents in Virginia have continued to meet the needs of buyers and sellers in the state. Just how many real estate professionals are involved in transactions each year can seem a bit unclear when you look at the different information sources.
One of the most accurate sources for the number of real estate agents comes from the Virginia REALTOR association. They state that there are 36,000 Virginia members. But the one thing to remember is that number includes everyone - agents, brokers and leasing agents. Another thing to consider is that just because a real estate agent is a member of the Virginia REALTOR association that doesn’t mean they’re active. AND most but not all real estate agents are Realtors.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has a very different figure for the number of real estate agents in Virginia. Their latest data puts the figure at 6,350 real estate agents in Virginia and real estate brokers at 1,360. There are also 4,860 real estate association managers. However, their numbers are based on individuals who are reporting wages for year round full-time work, and it doesn’t include anyone filing as self-employed.
Many real estate agents work part-time, which is why the BLS numbers are pretty far off from the Virginia REALTORS association.
Where the Most Real Estate Agents Are Located in Virginia
Virginia has a high concentration of real estate agents compared to other states. Something else that the BLS data reveals is where there are the most real estate agents in Virginia. The northern and southeast regions have the most agents. The top areas include:
Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metro
Richmond
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metro
The areas around the hotspots are also very active. That means if you are looking to start a real estate career in Virginia, around those areas you might need to do what you can to stand out in the crowd. Statistics show that Virginians prefer to work with real estate agents that they know or have a connection with, so networking can really help.
Think of any type of connection you could have: friends from college who live there, extended family, or even a large group of people who may share a common interest as you. While you are starting to build your career in real estate, get connected with a well-known group or club that can help you get those connections you need.
Another thing that can give you a step up in a competitive field is taking continuing education real estate courses and earning certifications. It tells potential clients that you’re a professional that has the expertise they need to buy or sell a home in Virginia.
If you need to take Virginia pre-license real estate courses or continuing education you can find online programs at Aceable!
Updated 12/2/24