From Struggles to Success: Ethan Forbes’ Rise in Real Estate
A Young Achiever’s Journey
Ethan Forbes, a 24-year-old real estate agent on the Sunshine Coast, recently shared an inspiring journey from financial struggle to earning nearly $300,000 a year. Initially, Forbes faced a challenging start, earning nothing for his first six months in the industry, during which he found himself nearly broke.
Forbes’ path into real estate was marked by hard work and determination. After completing a brief, three-day course to enter the field, he understood that real success required more than just initial training.
Sacrifice and Dedication
In his first year, Forbes committed to long hours, working 12-hour days, seven days a week. His efforts involved extensive networking, often resulting in rejection, as he tirelessly sought out potential vendors. "I went really hard in that first year. I knew I had to make it work," he stated.
Unlike traditional employment with a fixed salary, Forbes’ income is commission-based, meaning his earnings fluctuated based on his sales. He embraced this risk-reward model, stating, "If I don’t get off my backside and work, I won’t make a living."
Despite his growing success and financial rewards, the demands of his job came at a notable cost. Forbes noted that his commitment to work meant sacrificing time with family, friends, and personal interests. However, he began to experience the results of his hard work, with his relentless efforts leading to additional income.
Achievements on the Rise
After just two years in real estate, Forbes announced impressive figures for the current financial year, reporting over $500,000 in gross commission income, shared with his agency, LJ Hooker. His average sale price ranges between $800,000 and $850,000, with notable sales reaching as high as $1.3 million.
Forbes reflected on his earnings, saying, "This year has been the most money I have ever made. It’s quite mind-boggling." However, he admitted the nature of real estate leads to income that can be unpredictable. For instance, in December, he achieved sales of $250,000 but also experienced dry spells, like earning nothing in the first quarter of 2025.
Mental Health and Balance
While proud of his achievements, Forbes acknowledged the emotional toll that comes with the territory. The constant pressure to perform can weigh heavily on one’s mental health, with feelings of burnout being a recurring challenge. He shared that the nature of the job often means facing rejection from potential clients and occasional setbacks in listings.
With renewed focus, Forbes is now working on establishing a healthier work-life balance. Although he still works six days a week and is available to clients around the clock, he has reduced his hours to between eight and nine each day, attempting to maintain his well-being alongside his professional responsibilities.
Authenticity in Real Estate
Forbes expressed his desire to break the stereotypical image of real estate agents, stating, "My least favourite thing about being a real estate agent is that I’m a real estate agent." He understands the negative perceptions many have of agents and wants to present a more relatable image. "I’m just a bloke, I’m 24 years old, and I’m here to help people," he affirmed, striving for transparency and honesty in his dealings with clients.
In summary, Ethan Forbes demonstrates how dedication and hard work can lead to significant success, even in a challenging industry. His story is a testament to the importance of resilience, the willingness to learn, and the continuous effort required to thrive in the demanding world of real estate. As he moves forward, Forbes plans to uphold his commitment to helping others while balancing the demands of his career and life outside of work.
