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Starting a career in New York real estate is more than just passing a test; it's about choosing a path of service and lifelong learning. Michael Aharoni, the manager of our Farmingdale office and a certified instructor at the Real Estate School of New York State (ResNice), believes the journey truly begins once you have your license in hand.
In this episode of the Work Hard, Play Hard, Give Back podcast, Mike Litzner and "Mac" discuss the transition from student to professional, the nuances of the NY licensing exam, and the deeply personal mission behind veteran advocacy in homeownership.
Getting Licensed: From 77 Hours to the State Exam
In New York, the gateway to a real estate career is the 77-hour salesperson course [00:09:56]. Whether you choose in-person, online, or self-paced learning, the focus is on mastering the fundamentals to pass the state test. However, Michael emphasizes that 95% of what you learn in class is academic; the "practical application" starts the moment you join a brokerage [00:06:50].
Many successful agents today are "dual career" professionals—transitioning from service-oriented fields like teaching, nursing, or the first responder community [00:19:35]. The ability to communicate and serve others is the common thread that leads to a thriving real estate career.
Pro Tip: Don't just look for a brokerage that gives you tools. Look for a foundation. Most agents fail in their first six months because they lack the mentorship and coaching required to turn a license into a business [00:07:10].
The Power of Specialized Designations
Professional growth doesn't stop at the initial license. Michael advocates for advanced certifications like the Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) and the Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI) to stay ahead of industry changes [00:11:55].
Following the 2024 NAR settlement changes, understanding fiduciary duties—specifically the "OLD CAR" acronym (Obedience, Loyalty, Disclosure, Confidentiality, Accountability, and Reasonable Care)—is more critical than ever for providing value to a home buyer [00:12:45].
Home at Last: A Mission for Our Veterans
Michael's "Give Back" pillar is centered on his non-profit, Home at Last. After noticing that many veterans were being taken advantage of by predatory lenders or agents who didn't understand VA loans, he testified before Congress to advocate for better education and protection for military families [00:34:33].
Home at Last provides free counseling to ensure veterans aren't overcharged on fees or missed exemptions, such as the VA funding fee for those with a disability rating [00:36:24]. It's a mission to ensure those who protect our freedoms can achieve the American dream of homeownership.
Building a Culture in Farmingdale
As the manager of the Farmingdale office, Michael's leadership style is defined by an "open door" policy and a focus on family-oriented culture [00:02:29]. He acts as a psychiatrist, mentor, and coach for both high-volume top producers and brand-new "newbies," ensuring the environment feels like a home rather than just a workplace.
Whether you're selling a home or starting a new career, the relationship doesn't end at the closing table; it begins there [00:43:44].
Thinking of a Career Change? Real estate is a service industry, not just a sales position. If you're ready to start your 77-hour journey, explore our careers page to learn more about joining the Farmingdale team.
Ready to see what the market looks like in Farmingdale or Bethpage? Get your CB Estimate today.
