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I had been teaching for almost 30 years. After I turned 50, however, it began to get overwhelming for me and somehow, the passion wasn't there anymore. I became anxious to retire; but with the economy in recession, my investments were losing money and there didn't seem to be any hope of retirement in the near future. I became depressed and began looking for a way out. I had watched my daughter become a successful realtor and decided that I would give it a try. I am still absolutely amazed when I look back at where I was then and where I am now. Who would have thought that a grandmother in her 50's could successfully start a brand new career and love it?

I began studying for the State Realtor's test. It was summer break so I had time. I had heard that it was a difficult test, but knowing I was a smart woman, a high school science teacher with 2 Masters Degrees, I was naively confident. I spent the next few months agonizing over material that was so much harder than I had anticipated. I spent hours every day going over the information, taking practice tests (and failing many of them) and worrying that I would never get it right. In early September, I took the exam. When I found out I had passed I was ecstatic! I called everyone I knew. I celebrated with my family. I knew I wasn't a realtor yet, but I was on my way!

My wonderful daughter took me under her wing. I was still working as a teacher, so real estate was a just part-time venture for me but she introduced me to her broker, who agreed to sign me. She helped me make my first business cards and learn how to manage in the business. We became partners and to my daughter's surprise, I was able to teach her a few things too.

As diligent and hard-working as my daughter is, she has a great deal of difficulty approaching strangers. Now, perhaps it is because a high school teacher learns to be secure and confident, perhaps it's just in my nature, or perhaps I just didn't know any better, but I had no apprehension about approaching prospective clients. I talked to everyone. I passed out my business cards and I asked for listings over and over again. My enthusiasm went unrewarded for awhile but finally things began to turn around. I got one small listing, then another. I still remember the horror on her face when I strolled up to the door of a million dollar estate, introduced myself and offered my services. It took a little time, but I got that listing!

Shortly after that, I had my first closing and earned my first commission check. I still can't believe it. I no longer worry about how I will manage after retirement. I know that for the first time in my life, my finances are in my hands. I control my future. Amazing. Who says you can't change careers at 50?

Learn more about this author, Heidi Attir.
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