Real estate professionals thrive on the independence of self-employment, with 87% of members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) working as independent contractors. While this flexibility offers freedom to set schedules and grow businesses, it often comes without essential benefits like health insurance.

Only 74% of self-employed workers in the U.S. have health insurance, leaving many without the protection they need. If you’re in this position, you may wonder where most estate agents get benefits to stay covered and maintain their well-being.

Explore affordable realtor health insurance options to protect your health and maintain your independence.

Are Health Insurance Benefits Provided for Realtors?

Most real estate agents don’t receive health insurance benefits because they work as independent contractors rather than W-2 employees. Without a traditional employment structure, which often includes employer-sponsored plans, realtors can work part-time hours or serve clients in specific locations but must handle their own benefits.

While this lack of employer coverage might seem a disadvantage, it opens the door to more flexible and cost-effective realtor health benefit plans. Independent agents can explore various options tailored to their specific needs so they can find coverage that aligns with their lifestyle and budget.

Exploring Health Insurance Options for Realtors

Since employer-sponsored plans aren’t typically available, realtors must explore alternative ways to secure coverage. Here are the primary options for realtor insurance:

1. Association Health Plans (AHPs)

Real estate associations, like NAR, offer access to health insurance through programs such as the REALTORS® Insurance Place. These programs include ACA-qualified health plans, dental and vision coverage, and other health-related options. Availability and eligibility can vary by state, so it’s important to review specific offerings.

2. Private Health Insurance Plans

Realtors can purchase private health insurance plans through insurers or brokers like United National Healthcare. These plans let you choose from various coverage levels, deductibles, and provider networks. Private plans can be tailored to cover specific needs, such as catastrophic coverage or comprehensive family plans.

3. Health Insurance Marketplace (ACA Plans)

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace provides coverage options for self-employed individuals, including realtors. Depending on income, realtors may qualify for subsidies that reduce monthly premiums. ACA plans cover essential benefits such as preventative care, hospital visits, and prescription drugs.

4. Short-Term Health Insurance

Short-term health plans offer temporary coverage for realtors during gaps in employment or transitional phases. They often feature lower premiums but may exclude essential benefits like maternity care or pre-existing conditions.

5. Small Business

Realtors who start their own companies and hire employees can use small business health insurance to provide coverage for their team. It offers a structured way to meet employee needs, making it easier to attract talent while maintaining a professional and supportive work environment.

How To Choose the Best Health Insurance for Realtors

Finding the right health insurance as a realtor means considering your specific needs and work style. Here’s what to think about to choose coverage that fits your life:

Coverage Needs

• Decide whether you need individual or family coverage, and consider specific health services.

• Family plans provide comprehensive care for dependents, while individual plans focus on personal needs like prescriptions or specialist visits

Premium Costs

• Consider the plan’s monthly cost and how it fits your budget while providing necessary benefits.

• Balancing premiums with coverage is key; a lower premium may mean higher out-of-pocket costs during unexpected medical needs.

Deductibles and Out-of-Pocket Costs

• Understand the costs you’ll pay before insurance kicks in and the maximum you'll spend annually.

• A plan with a higher deductible often has lower premiums but requires more upfront costs, while a low-deductible plan offers greater predictability.

Network Accessibility

• Make sure the plan includes your preferred doctors, hospitals, and specialists to avoid extra costs.

• Staying in-network keeps costs lower, so confirm your healthcare providers are included before choosing a plan.

Flexibility

• Look for plans that accommodate unpredictable income or seasonal schedules common in real estate.

• Plans with adjustable payment structures or savings options like Health Savings Accounts provide financial stability during slower income periods.

Protect Your Health as a Realtor: Choose United National Healthcare

Prioritizing your health as a realtor is essential for maintaining a successful career and a balanced personal life. Finding the best health insurance for realtors means exploring options designed to support your profession and lifestyle.

United National Healthcare offers plans tailored to meet the needs of realtors, with affordable premiums, flexible networks, and options for both individual and family coverage. We provide personalized solutions that align with the demands of a real estate career.

Discover why our plans offer the best health insurance for realtors—contact our team today for a customized quote to learn about your options and choose the best fit for you.