I would blog about it!  And, I so agree w/ Roger D. Mucci suggestion. I'd also consider defining your brand/niche and creating a new logo for it.  And, of course, you should send an email out to sphere and/or cards.

That is tough!  I'm trying to do the same (out of IT and into Real Estate).  Just getting the word out there and making sure people know what you do.  That's the best advice I have.

I like what Roger D. Mucci said...sounds like a way to lose weight too if that is on your to do list "blog your ass off"

 Good morning John. I see that you have a lot of good answers here. I am in the process of changing to the team concept because teams are vogue right now.

For AR I suggest you write a blog telling us about your move into this new phase and work focus. For other contacts maybe an e-blast with similar content.

Hope you find joy and satisfaction in the new venture!

Lots of blog posts, a few mass emails to your referral network, and dont forget the socal media places.

Best of success to you as you change direction in the new year John!

I spent almost 20 years in Radio Dispatching and over 20 years Traveling the country painting and exhibiting at art festivals.  I just focused on my new environment and forged ahead.

Research and start sharing info that will show you are an expert in this new field and write lots about it. Before long everyone will get the idea and have forgotten what you used to do.

Update your profile first and foremost, leave out what you use to do. Then start blogging about your new niche.  That is what I did.  I was a Short Sale person for several years. I quit talking and blogging about it and started talking and blogging about other things.

Start by updating your websites, let Google start picking up on the new headlines and start a new branding campaign on social media. Also start putting out content on the new brand. Thats where I would start to re-brand.

Maybe a new name?

Many professionals have changed careers and enjoyed success in real estate. Plan your success track and make it happen.

First find your real estate niche. Find someone to mentor you .

 The bulk of your business comes from your sphere of influence, I would make everyone there aware of your new path so they will follow.

John,
# 1 Be competent in the new area.

# 2 Interact with people who will need your help in the new area.

Exactly how they will play out in your circumstances I can’t tell you, but I have done 1 & 2 a number of times over the last 40+ years.

I have experienced something like this. I've been a mortgage lender 29 years. In 2010 after the crash I wrote novels and literary fiction on the side while my children did homework. I couldn't decide if I ought to be open about the two things on any one site for a while. I did set up profiles in my new endeavor with many images and spoke about my journey on a blog site. I found many writers who also have serious day job to support their family. Being creative fulfilled a part of me and made my job as a mortgage broker better, stronger, richer...

 Don't take down all the information and great links you have built over time. Add on top about your new venture. I'm exicted to read what you are planning in detail. 

Open a few new sites in the target of the new business with new photographs of you and your wife, but cherish all that you built for your family. #proud of you!

Many refer calls to other people w or w/o a commission.

A realtor in my neighborhood for 40 years had a brokerage. She got calls just for a few weeks.   Another one became a aerobics trainer. She was actually my broker and both will not look back.... Adios.

Hi John - I'd suggest diving right in.  Write about what you're doing, planning, and looking to do.  If certain home types or communities will be your focus, follow the lead of others here.  A very Merry Christmas to you as well!