The “hidden” costs of being an agent are one of the most overlooked parts of a new real estate career.

1. Association Dues

Annual membership for OREA, CREA, and your local board: $1,800–$2,500.

2. Desk and Brokerage Fees

Monthly payments for using brokerage services and technology: $50–$500/month.

3. Errors and Omissions Insurance

Required by RECO, typically $400–$600/year.

4. Marketing

Branding, brochures, ads, social media, and cards: $1,000+/year.

5. Client Gifts

Gifts for clients, events, and open houses: variable, often $100–$1,000 annually.

6. Continuing Education

Licensing and update courses: $200–$500/year.

7. Vehicle Expenses

Traveling for showings and meetings is not reimbursed.

8. Office Supplies and Technology

Printers, computers, cell phone plans, CRM systems.

9. Professional Photography and Staging

To produce high-quality listings (costs passed to agent when brokerage doesn’t cover it).

10. Taxes

Set aside income for quarterly tax instalments. Read our A Guide to Taxes for Real Estate Agents in Canada.

External References and Deeper Reading

See more: The Top 10 Hidden Expenses for Ontario Real Estate Agents