Are you thinking about getting your real estate license in North Carolina but wondering if it’s worth the investment? You’re not alone. One of the most common questions aspiring agents ask is, “How much do real estate agents make in North Carolina?” The answer depends on a few key factors: location, experience, the type of brokerage you work with, and how much effort you put into growing your business. But here’s the good news—real estate in North Carolina can be a lucrative and flexible career path, especially if you approach it with the right mindset and tools.
Let’s break it all down and help you decide if real estate is the right move for you.
What Is the Average Real Estate Agent Salary in North Carolina?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual income for real estate agents in North Carolina is around $60,000, but this number only tells part of the story. Real estate income varies widely depending on your region and sales volume. Many agents start part-time or supplement their income with another job in the early stages. However, successful full-time agents can earn six figures within a few years of entering the business.
Let’s look at some averages across different experience levels:
| Experience Level | Annual Income Estimate |
|---|---|
| New Agent (Year 1) | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| 2-3 Years | $40,000 – $65,000 |
| 3-5 Years | $60,000 – $100,000+ |
| 5+ Years (Top Performers) | $100,000 – $250,000+ |
Some agents, especially those working in luxury markets or managing teams, earn even more.
What Factors Affect Real Estate Agent Income in NC?
Your potential income depends on several things:
1. Location
Agents working in fast-growing urban areas like Raleigh, Charlotte, Durham, or Wilmington often earn more due to higher property values and stronger housing demand.
2. Your Hustle and Lead Generation
Real estate is a performance-based business. The more leads you generate and convert, the more homes you sell—and the more money you make. Many agents use tools like Google Ads, social media, referrals, and real estate CRM platforms to build their client base.
3. Commission Splits and Brokerage Fees
Most agents don’t earn a salary. Instead, they earn a commission when a home sells—usually 2.5% to 3% of the sale price. If you sell a $300,000 home, that’s $7,500 to $9,000 in gross commission. But keep in mind, you often split that commission with your brokerage.
Commission split examples:
- New Agent Split: 50/50
- Experienced Agent: 70/30 or 80/20
- Top Agent or Flat-Fee Brokerage: 90/10 or 100% commission
4. Part-Time vs. Full-Time
Many people start real estate as a side hustle while they build up their client base. That’s totally fine! But full-time agents typically earn more because they’re investing more time in prospecting, showing homes, and marketing.
5. Your Niche and Branding
Some agents specialize in niches like luxury homes, military relocations, or first-time homebuyers. Carving out a niche can lead to stronger referrals and faster growth.
Real Estate Agent Income by City in North Carolina
Here are some ballpark income figures by metro area:
| City | Estimated Average Income |
|---|---|
| Raleigh | $65,000 – $110,000 |
| Charlotte | $60,000 – $105,000 |
| Durham | $55,000 – $95,000 |
| Asheville | $50,000 – $90,000 |
| Wilmington | $55,000 – $95,000 |
| Fayetteville | $45,000 – $85,000 |
Keep in mind, these are just averages. Top agents in any of these cities often exceed six figures.
What Are the Expenses Involved in Becoming a Real Estate Agent?
Before you start making money, you’ll have some startup costs. These include:
- Prelicensing Education: ~$300-$500 (Costs Less At First Flight Real Estate Academy)
- Postlicensing Education: ~ $500 – $750 (Costs Less At First Flight Real Estate Academy)
- NC Licensing Exam Fee: $56
- NC License Application Fee: $100
- Background Check & Fingerprinting: ~$40
- MLS & Association Dues: $500-$1,200 annually
- Supra Key/Lockbox Access: $100-$200/year
- Business Cards, Signs, Marketing Materials: ~$200 to start
Total estimated startup cost: $1,000 to $1,500.
These investments can pay off quickly if you close even one transaction.
How Do New Real Estate Agents Get Paid?
Real estate agents only get paid when a transaction closes. This is known as 100% commission-based pay. Your first few months (or even your first year) may be slower while you build a pipeline of leads, but you can start closing deals within 60-90 days after licensure if you’re proactive.
Pro tip: Partner with a mentor, take a real estate coaching course, or join a team to ramp up faster.
Can You Really Make a Living in Real Estate?
Yes—but it takes work. Think of real estate like running your own business. The more you invest in training, lead generation, and client relationships, the more you can earn. Agents who treat real estate like a full-time career often exceed $100,000/year by year three.
What’s the Schedule Like for Real Estate Agents?
One of the biggest perks of a real estate career is flexibility. You can create your own schedule and work from home, but you also need to be available when your clients need you—evenings and weekends included.
Real estate is perfect for self-motivated individuals who want independence without being tied to a 9-to-5 desk job.
Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent Right for You?
If you’re entrepreneurial, people-oriented, and ready to take control of your career, real estate in North Carolina offers huge potential. With low startup costs and unlimited earning capacity, it’s one of the most accessible professional opportunities available.
It won’t happen overnight, but if you stay committed, keep learning, and focus on service, the rewards can be life-changing.
Ready to Start Your Real Estate Career?
At First Flight Real Estate Academy, we help future agents like you launch successful, sustainable careers in North Carolina real estate. Our online, self-paced prelicensing courses are affordable, NCREC-approved, and designed to fit your schedule.
Take the first step toward a career with flexibility, independence, and real earning power!
Let’s Get Started