That potential $80,000 isn't in the first year. I work for the highest ranked life insurance company in the industry and third year salary is on average $82,xxx but thats if you make it to the third year because its an industry where many, many people fail. Also stay the fuck away from a company that your compensation is based on "the people under you", thats the definition of a pyramid scheme. My housemate got himself into a pyramid scheme with someone from PrimAmerica - did not end well.
I tell you this so you take those numbers with a grain of salt and don't have delusions of grandeur. I know when I walked in I was thinking this is amazing but when you see how difficult it is and how many people fail, then you begin to realize that the ones who are successful become very successful but most others fail.
If someone offered you a salaried $60,000 and not a projected total compensation after commission then, in my eyes, you're foolish for passing up the offer. If it was $60,000 after commission then thats a different story but to be flat salaried at $60k, especially if its an easy job, is a blessing.
Personally, I'll take the $35-$40k base with unlimited earning potential from commission, simply because its the career field I have wanted to go into all my life - but its certainly not easy.