Move from I.T. to Real Estate?

[lankenau]

I've been working in I.T. in the pharmaceutical industry for the past 14 years and after a recent layoff, I've decided to research if pursuing some of my outside interests as a new career path is right for me. I've had a great deal of interest in real estate as far as matching up the needs of people with the right homes and neighborhoods. I've even suggested homes to friends to go visit and they've actually purchased or made offers on the homes.
I'd like to know if there are ways I can "test the waters" to determine if this is something I should consider as a career before making the effort to take courses and work for a real estate license? Any feedback is appreciated.

I'd also like to discover what other careers in real estate besides being a realtor would be a path to pursue. I truly enjoy learning about communities, architecture, design, and helping people in their home search.

[Marty B.]

Maybe work for a large property management company with a diverse array of rental properties? I don't think you have to have a real estate license if you're talking rentals. There are also small combination real estate / property management companies. Maybe you could get on one there being responsible for rentals, but with the understanding that you're interested in working your way up to real estate sales.

[lankenau]

Thanks for the advice. Definitely food for thought..