The loss of Realtors does not show up in national or even local statistics because agents are sole proprietors. In Charlotte alone, over 22% of the agents have left the industry since 2009. The national unemployment rate does not include those who have left the workforce OR sole proprietors. Remember most sole proprietors are looking for work to survive. The economy is not creating the environment for work to be created. As a sole proprietor, I am looking for work -- where will it come from next???