In 2011, the housing market continued to stabilize and some areas of the country saw improvement in sales. Data from the Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey shows that while primary residence buyers dipped, the share of investment buyers entering the market rose to 27 percent from 17 percent. Investment buyers entered the market via buying distressed properties and often working with a real estate professional to assist in their purchase.

Resonating with a strengthening economy, commercial real estate markets turned the corner. Demand stabilized in 2011 and is expected to grow in 2012 for all property types. In turn, vacancy rates are declined and rents are poised to advance. With rising household formation and tight supply, the apartment sector is especially well positioned for 2012. For the first time in several years, the median gross income of REALTORS® rose from the previous year. The typical income among members was $34,900 in 2011 compared to $34,100 in 2010. The rise in member income reflects an increase in business activity, as well. The typical brokerage specialist had 10 transaction sides in 2011 compared to eight transaction sides in 2010. The median sales volume also rose to $1.3 million in 2011 from $1.1 million in 2010.

The typical REALTOR® is an independent contractor affiliated with an independent company catering to local markets. Members typically have been with their firm for six years and 72 percent of members do not receive fringe benefits at their firm.

The median age of REALTORS® has steadily increased in recent years from 51 years of age in 2007 to 56 in 2012. The majority of members are women with a college education. REALTORS® frequently have had careers in other fields prior to real estate, the most common being in management, business, and financial professions, followed by sales and retail. Only five percent indicated that real estate is their first career.

REALTORS® are embracing new technologies and marketing strategies that buyers are finding useful in their home search process, including websites, blogs, and social media. In addition to membership in the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS®, real estate professionals have other ways of distinguishing themselves, including affiliate memberships, professional designations, and certifications. Many REALTORS® take advantage of each of these opportunities. Short Sales and Foreclosures remains the most popular certification, continuing a two year trend.

Looking forward, 76 percent of REALTORS® are very certain they will remain in the business at least two more years. This share is higher than last year, indicating the growing optimism that is seen in today’s market. Newer members in the business are less certain they will remain in real estate, while more seasoned members are more certain.

This page features a summary of our Member Profile. Get a copy of the full report here.