From Struggles to Success: Ethan Forbes’s Journey in Real Estate
Ethan Forbes, a 24-year-old real estate agent on the Sunshine Coast, has shared his remarkable journey from earning nothing for six months to amassing nearly $300,000 in annual income. His perseverance in the high-stakes world of real estate serves as an inspiration for those contemplating a similar path.
Initial Struggles
Forbes began his real estate career by completing a straightforward three-day course before plunging into the industry. However, the initial excitement quickly gave way to the harsh realities of the sector. He explained to Yahoo Finance that after starting out, he found himself “broke” for the first half-year, without a cent to his name. This period of hardship forced him to confront the challenging nature of commission-based income—if he didn’t sell, he didn’t earn.
The Hustle
Determined to succeed, Forbes threw himself into rigorous work habits. For his first year, he committed to working 12-hour days, every day of the week, stepping outside his comfort zone by door-knocking and seeking potential sellers. "I had to make this work," he recalled, emphasising the grind required in such a competitive market. His efforts were driven by the understanding that without a guaranteed salary, he had to hustle to stay afloat: “If I don’t get my act together, I’m going to starve.”
Sacrifices Made
However, this dedication came at a cost. Forbes revealed that his relentless schedule strained relationships with family and friends, and he often found himself missing out on hobbies and personal time. Despite the sacrifices, he began to witness the rewards of his labour. "I’m finally starting to see the fruits of my labour from those long days spent knocking on doors without recognition," he noted.
Incredibly, his hard work soon translated into impressive financial gains. During the last financial year, Forbes earned a remarkable $300,000, which included his superannuation and taxes. For the current financial year, he reported earning over $500,000 in gross commission income, sharing a portion with his agency, LJ Hooker.
Income Fluctuations
Forbes’s income is anything but stable; it varies dramatically from month to month. For example, in December, he achieved a staggering $250,000 in sales by listing 12 properties, earning him a take-home of $125,000. But the very next quarter reminded him of the unpredictability of real estate when he earned $0 over the first three months of 2025.
Mental Health Challenges
While grateful for his success, Forbes candidly exposed some of the mental health challenges he encountered. The rejection inherent in real estate, along with the pressure to perform, took a toll on his well-being. "You experience high moments and low moments," he reflected, underscoring the importance of resilience in navigating the industry.
As he continues to thrive, Forbes is vocal about his commitment to achieving a balanced lifestyle. While he still works six days a week and is available for clients around the clock, he has moderated his hours to better support his mental health, focusing on working between eight to nine hours a day instead of 12.
Connecting with Clients
In an industry often characterised by negative perceptions—where agents can sometimes appear detached or insincere—Forbes aims to redefine the agent-client relationship. He candidly expressed his dislikes about being a real estate agent, linking it to the stereotypes associated with the profession. “I’m just a bloke, only 24, and here to genuinely help people,” he said, showcasing his down-to-earth approach.
Conclusion
Ethan Forbes’s story reflects the complexities and potential triumphs of a career in real estate. Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to personal growth, he has transformed his initial struggles into a promising career. As he continues to navigate the highs and lows of the market, his journey serves as a powerful reminder of the rewards that come from dedication and resilience in pursuit of success.
