Gaining a real estate license in Georgia is an excellent way to break into the industry. The cost of entry is minimal, making it both cost-effective and highly rewarding. Before you decide to get a real estate license, you should know the cost of this type of license in Georgia.
How much will it cost to get a real estate license in Georgia?
When it comes to how much a real estate license in Georgia costs, there are several elements that must be taken into account: the amount of pre-licensing coursework needed, the exam fee, and the background check process.
Most states require aspiring real estate professionals to complete specific pre-licensing courses before they can obtain their license. These classes can range in length from 20 hours up to 200.
Georgia requires students to complete 75 hours of pre-licensing education approved by the commission to earn their license. These courses can be taken online, giving students the freedom to study at their own pace.
Once students have successfully completed the course, they can take their state exam. This test consists of 152 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.
Pre-License Real Estate School Course Cost
In Georgia, you must complete a 75-hour pre-license course and pass an exam at a testing center to become licensed in real estate.
Preparing for the state exam requires taking an online real estate course. These programs are tailored to help you pass on your first attempt.
Kaplan Real Estate Education is a popular option, accredited by both IDECC and ARELLO. Additionally, they provide various packages for students looking to save money.
Another alternative is Aceable Agent, which offers pre-licensing education and exam prep. Its courses can be completed on desktop or mobile apps and feature-level assessments, practice tests, and topic summaries to guarantee you’re ready for test day.
The cost of this type, of course, can range from a few hundred dollars to nearly one thousand dollars.
License Fee
Georgia offers one of the lowest real estate license fees of any state, at $170 for a salesperson or broker license. This fee covers your initial four-year license term as well as 36 hours of Continuing Education courses each year.
Exam Fee
The Georgia real estate license exam fee is $121 each time you take the test. You may pay this fee with a credit card, cashier’s check, or money order.
Background Check
Background checks are an integral part of Georgia’s real estate licensing process. Not only does this help prevent fraud, but it also provides consumers with minimum requirements and industry oversight that ensure their safety.
Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) reports can be obtained from your local police station or sheriff’s office. However, if you are a Georgia resident who was convicted of a crime outside Georgia, an additional National Crime Information Center report must also be submitted.
The fee for your fingerprinting will be $51.50, which will include the FBI fee.
Costs to Become a Real Estate Agent: Additional Fees
Brokerage Desk Fees
Real estate agent brokerages are responsible for keeping a portion of the commission earned by their agents. This money goes toward covering office space, staff costs, advertising expenses, insurance premiums, computers, and licenses – among other costs.
Brokers typically charge a monthly desk fee to cover these resources. Prices for desk fees can vary by location but usually range between $35-$75 per month. However, this fee can go up to as much as $100 per month or $3,600 per year.
Broker’s desk fee is designed to cover the expenses associated with office space, mentoring, marketing materials, and other services the broker expects its agents to receive. While some companies charge higher desk fees than others, it’s worth exploring your options in search of the best deal possible.
REALTOR® Dues
As a real estate agent in Georgia, you must pay dues to both the state and national associations. These fees protect your license from legal issues while providing access to various benefits. While some of these fees might be optional, you will likely want to join associations. Expect to pay $150 to $900 per year for dues.
Marketing Materials
Marketing materials used in your business are essential for building a name for yourself and distinguishing yourself from competitors. They allow you to communicate your successes, abilities, and personality to clients and prospective buyers alike, thus helping you uncover potential buyers.
Yard signs are among the oldest and most reliable real estate marketing materials. They promote your business name to potential clients and can be distributed around town for open houses or to highlight specific properties.
Expect to pay between $200 and $3,000 annually for marketing materials.
Future License Renewals and the Post-licensing Course
Georgia requires real estate license renewal every four years. You will need to take a 25-hour post-licensing course within your first year of being a salesperson in Georgia. This course will cost $100 or more, depending on the school you choose.
Is a Real Estate License Worth the Cost?
Are you considering changing careers? Real estate may be the ideal fit. You’ll have an amazing chance to showcase beautiful homes and assist people in finding their ideal residence. For those looking to become successful in the real estate industry, the cost of getting a Georgia real estate license is well worth it.
