Understanding Real Estate Agent Earnings in Georgia: What You Can Expect

By Olivia ParkerLast Updated June 27, 2025

Introduction: Real Estate Agent Income in Georgia

Georgia’s real estate market offers diverse opportunities for agents, but earnings can vary dramatically depending on experience, location, hours worked, and market conditions. Understanding what affects income and how to access these opportunities is crucial for anyone considering or advancing a career in real estate.

Average Salary and Income Ranges

According to recent data from Salary.com, the average annual salary for a real estate sales agent in Georgia is $45,446 , with most professionals earning between $44,396 and $57,806. Entry-level agents typically earn around $43,440, while top earners can make up to $69,059 annually [1] . However, Indeed’s data, derived from thousands of job postings, shows a higher average of $107,587 per year for Georgia agents [3] . This discrepancy highlights the impact of commission structures, regional differences, and reporting methodologies.

Other sources, such as AceableAgent, report an average income of $96,796 based on commission earnings and broader market trends [2] . For those working in cities like Savannah, the average annual salary is about $106,337 , with some agents earning up to $200,000 depending on their sales volume and specialty [5] .

Factors Affecting Real Estate Agent Income

Several critical factors influence how much a real estate agent can make in Georgia:

Location: Urban and suburban areas, such as Atlanta and Savannah, generally offer higher earning potential due to higher property values and transaction volumes.
Experience: More seasoned agents command higher commissions and build networks that result in more transactions.
Hours Worked: Full-time agents make significantly more than those working part-time. Colibri Real Estate data shows agents working 40-50 hours per week average $125,000, while part-timers (<20 hours) average just $21,000 [4] .
Specialization: Niche markets such as luxury homes or commercial properties can yield higher commissions.
Market Conditions: Strong, growing markets support higher sales volumes and prices, directly impacting agent earnings.

Agents should assess their local market and consider specializing or increasing work hours to maximize income. Joining professional organizations, such as the Georgia Association of REALTORSÂ®, can also offer networking and educational opportunities that strengthen career prospects.

Commission Structures and How Agents Get Paid

Most real estate agents in Georgia earn income through commissions, typically ranging from 5% to 6% of a property’s sale price. Commissions are split between the buying and selling agents, and then split again with their respective brokerages.

For example, on a $300,000 home sale with a 6% commission, the total commission would be $18,000. This is usually divided as follows:

Listing Agent: $9,000
Buyer’s Agent: $9,000

Each agent may then share 20-50% of their commission with their brokerage, depending on their agreement. Therefore, agents often focus on increasing the number of transactions, targeting higher-value properties, or negotiating better splits with their brokerages to improve earnings.

How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Georgia

To pursue a real estate career in Georgia, follow these steps:

Complete a Georgia Real Estate Pre-Licensing Course: Accredited providers offer these courses online and in-person. Search for approved Georgia real estate schools through the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC).
Pass the State Licensing Exam: Register for the exam through the GREC. Study materials and practice exams are available from reputable education providers.
Apply for Your License: Submit your application to the GREC, including background checks and proof of education. The official GREC website provides forms and guidance.
Find a Brokerage: You must affiliate with a licensed brokerage to activate your license. Research local brokerages and interview to find the best fit for your goals.
Join Professional Organizations: Consider joining the Georgia Association of REALTORSÂ® and the National Association of REALTORSÂ® for networking, training, and access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

If you need help finding accredited educational providers, visit the Georgia Real Estate Commission’s official website or contact them directly for the current list of approved schools. Many local boards and major brokerages also offer informational seminars and mentorship programs.

Maximizing Your Earnings as a Georgia Real Estate Agent

Agents aiming to increase their income should:

Work Full-Time: The more hours invested, the higher the earnings potential. Full-time agents consistently outperform part-time peers [4] .
Specialize: Focusing on high-demand areas, such as luxury homes or commercial real estate, can lead to higher commissions.
Network: Building a strong referral network through professional organizations and community involvement can increase transaction volume.
Continue Education: Take advantage of continuing education to stay current on market trends and legal requirements.
Leverage Online Marketing: Utilize social media and online platforms to reach more buyers and sellers.

If you’re interested in exclusive offers on pre-licensing courses or want to learn more about Georgia real estate careers, many established education providers offer online information sessions. To access these opportunities, search for “Georgia real estate pre-licensing course” and review offerings from state-approved schools and major brokerages.

Challenges and Solutions

While earnings can be significant, new agents often face challenges such as establishing a client base, managing irregular income, and learning local market dynamics. Solutions include:

Mentorship: Partner with experienced agents for guidance and support.
Marketing: Invest in personal branding and targeted advertising.
Financial Planning: Budget carefully to navigate periods with fewer transactions.
Adaptability: Stay flexible and ready to shift focus based on market trends.

Many local REALTORÂ® boards offer workshops and new agent programs to help overcome these hurdles. If you’d like more guidance, contact your local board or search for “Georgia REALTORÂ® new agent resources.”

Alternative Pathways and Career Growth

If traditional sales aren’t a fit, consider related roles such as property management, real estate appraisal, or transaction coordination. These positions often require separate certifications but can offer more predictable earnings and less reliance on commission-based income.

For those seeking advancement, pursuing broker licensure or specializing in commercial real estate can lead to higher compensation and leadership opportunities.

Key Takeaways

Real estate agent earnings in Georgia typically range from $45,000 to over $100,000 per year, with top performers earning significantly more . Income is highly variable and depends on local market health, hours worked, specialization, and experience. To access these opportunities:

Start with accredited pre-licensing education and pass the state exam
Choose a brokerage that supports your career goals
Invest in ongoing education, networking, and marketing

For official guidance, contact the Georgia Real Estate Commission or your local REALTORÂ® board. With dedication and strategic effort, agents in Georgia can build rewarding careers with substantial earning potential.