1. Save up 3-5 years of income because it takes that long to get started.
2. Earn a college degree in real estate finance, real estate development, accounting and/or law.
3. Indenture yourself to a top commercial broker in the region and work as their runner for a few years making just enough money to rent a studio apartment and eat top ramen but were the $1,000 suits and drive the MBZ every day to keep up appearances.
By then the market should have turned and you can once again make a decent living.
Seriously, it's a tough road and not a simple transition. If you ever want specific advice, let me know, I've been at this for a while.
Aug 3, 2009