[jodi]

I've been a PT agent for nearly 6 years now - and it was EXTREMELY hard to break in. I had to bust my butt when I was doing it FT. Now, I work PT in a different job and have a steady income plus benefits - I still sell real estate PT, mostly for family and acquaintances. I could make a lot more if I was willing to put the time in, but I hate prospecting. I just received my 1099 and I made nearly $8500 last year - not bad for basically working the summer months.
I have to agree with a pp who said that the seasoned agents, who truely work FT and put the effort in, probably won't be too affected. They get the majority of the business, and there will always be houses to sell. As for me, I don't rely on the income, so I'll take anything that comes my way, but won't be hurt if it doesn't. All it costs me is my dues and MLS access fees, but one transaction per year will usually cover that.