When deciding if becoming a real estate agent is for you, there are several things to take into account. You should research the cost of becoming licensed, how long it takes to receive your license, and what duties come after licensing.
The Cost of Obtaining Your Real Estate License in PA
In Pennsylvania, the cost to get a real estate license varies based on where you live, how much time is available for the course, and how long it takes to finish. Additionally, the type of course you select and its completion speed all affect how much it will cost.
Pre-Licensing Education – $299 to $629
In order to begin the process of obtaining your real estate license in Pennsylvania, you must first meet the prerequisite education requirements. This includes taking two Commission-approved courses and passing their respective exams – these classes can either be taken online or in a classroom setting.
On average, you can expect to invest 75 hours into these classes. This includes both the 30-hour real estate fundamentals course and the 45-hour course on practicing as a realtor in Pennsylvania.
PA Real Estate Exam – $49 per attempt
Once you have completed your coursework, you may apply to take the state-administered PSI exam. This test consists of 110 multiple-choice questions over three hours and requires that you answer 60 out of 80 on the national portion and 23 out of 30 on the state portion in order to pass.
The exam fee is $49 and is valid for one year. If you don’t pass either the national or state portion of the test, you can retake it at any PSI testing center.
When taking the exam, you must bring a form of identification such as a government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license or passport. You may also bring an additional form of ID like a military ID or student ID.
Obtaining a Background Check – $27 total
After submitting your application for licensure to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission, you must undergo a criminal history background check. This check is mandatory for all applicants to the PA Real Estate Commission and should be obtained within 90 days of submission at the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) website.
If you have a criminal record, the PREC may review your application and decide to deny it preliminarily. You may have the right to request reconsideration of your case through a hearing before the commission.
Background checks are the most essential step in obtaining your real estate license. This demonstrates that you are a responsible individual who will abide by all regulations that apply in this industry.
Finding a broker to collaborate with is essential. They will assist in building the experience and knowledge necessary for success as a real estate agent, and they’ll guide you through the licensing process and help fulfill mandatory education requirements.
How Much Does Real Estate School Cost in Pennsylvania?
If you are considering a career in real estate, you will likely need to complete 75 hours of pre-licensing courses. You have the option of attending live classes or online ones, which best suits your personal preferences and time commitment depends on which option works best for you.
Fortunately, many NY-approved online real estate schools can meet these requirements and provide modern learning tools that make it easier for you to be successful in your new career. Here are a few of the best:
Aceable Agent – $299 – $529
Aceable Agent, a relatively new real estate school, offers an appealing alternative for aspiring professionals who want their license without breaking the bank. They provide various innovative learning tools like games and simulations to keep you motivated during your online pre-licensing courses.
They offer exam prep tools and study guides to help you succeed on your final exams. These include quizzes, chapter summaries, and multiple-choice questions that will give an indication of your strengths and weaknesses as a prospective real estate agent.
The CE Shop – $419 – $685
For over 50 years, The CE Shop has been a trusted provider of online real estate education. Their affordable pre-licensing, exam prep, and continuing education courses are second to none, while their agent resources and career advice remain top-notch.
Their courses offer a friendly combination of text, video, and interactive elements that are easy to comprehend and engage with. Furthermore, you can access their real estate forums, where you can connect with fellow students and educators in the field.
Kaplan – $429 – $629
Established in 1938, Kaplan Real Estate Education has earned an enviable reputation among real estate students as one of the top tiers for residential real estate education in America. Their courses feature top-notch instructors, well-designed materials, and flexible learning formats to fit your learning style.
Kaplan offers several popular packages, such as the PL Fundamentals course, Practice course, and Exam Prep course. These courses provide all the material you need to prepare for your Pennsylvania license test at an excellent value.
Kaplan’s learning formats are popular with many students, as they allow you to study from home or the office and fit around your hectic schedule. Plus, Kaplan provides instructor support and interactive groups to further enhance your comprehension.
Colibri – $349 – $549
Though not as widely recommended as Kaplan, Colibri Real Estate offers a range, of course, options to customize your learning experience to meet individual needs and preferences. Their full course packages are tailored toward self-paced learners, while premium course bundles come with additional features like a real estate dictionary, instructor Q&A, and interactive elements to further enhance the learning process.
They provide a free trial period to let customers try out their premium packages before committing to an annual subscription. Often, the prices are discounted.
How Much Does It Cost to Take The Pennsylvania Real Estate License Exam?
The cost of taking this examination varies based on which license type you need. For salespeople, however, the exam is just $54, covering both national and state portions. PSI administers it under contract with the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission for this purpose.
