Individuals who are interested in sales sometimes turn to real estate, as it can be a lucrative market for those who can properly turn a house around. Having sales experience may help an individual thrive in the field. However, real estate does not require much education, which is why some people turn to it as a career opportunity.

Although the industry was hurting with the rest of the economy, sales figures in Manhattan indicate that there may be hope for the industry in the New Year, according to the New York Times.

"Considering where we came from, the results this quarter were much better than we could've imagined a year ago at this time," Jonathan J. Miller, president of the appraisal firm Miller Samuel, which prepares the market report for Prudential Douglas Elliman, told the news provider. "There are a lot of challenges ahead for housing, but I think the worst is behind us."

As the industry begins to show signs of improvement, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the profession is expected to create 14% more employment opportunities by 2018.