Each state has different requirements for becoming a real estate agent, which can be time-consuming. Therefore, you must understand what must be done before beginning your career in this field.
Pre-licensing coursework and passing the licensing exam are typically necessary to acquire a real estate license. These can be completed at either college, an approved real estate school, or online.
Most Common Requirements to Become a Real Estate Agent
Basic Requirements
State-by-state, the requirements for obtaining a real estate license differ, but generally speaking, you must be at least 18 years old and possess either a high school diploma or a GED certificate. You also need to submit fingerprints and pass a background check; this process takes 90-180 hours before the examination.
Many colleges and real estate schools provide pre-license courses to help people prepare for their real estate exams. You can take the course in person or online, depending on your state. Companies such as Aceable Agent, The CE Shop, and Colibri Real Estate offer courses across America.
Educational Requirements
State by state, the educational requirements to become a real estate agent vary considerably. Most states require a high school diploma and a pre-licensing course before you can take your real estate exam.
Though unnecessary, many employers prefer candidates with a four-year degree or certificate in real estate. However, it’s essential to remember that certification does not imply more knowledge or expertise than those without one.
Once you meet your state’s licensing requirements, apply for your license with your state’s real estate commission. You must pass a background check and pay an application fee to be granted permission.
Additionally, you must obtain an affidavit from a sponsoring broker to prove your eligibility and education level. This broker will verify your readiness to work and your qualifications.
It can take a few weeks to a full year to fulfill all licensing requirements, but it’s best to start the coursework immediately after deciding that real estate is the right career for you. Furthermore, remember that renewing your license every two years is mandatory.
Exam Requirements
Along with pre-licensing coursework, you must pass the licensing exam. This test consists of multiple-choice and true-false questions on federal and local laws. The length of the test will be different from one state to another.
Sponsoring Broker Requirements
Be sure to find a trustworthy broker who will sponsor your real estate license. They can serve as both mentors and guides throughout this exciting new journey. Do some research on their reputation both locally and nationally before signing on with them.
Joining Associations
While it’s not required that you join any associations, it can be a great way to build your real estate career.
As an agent or broker, it is highly recommended that you join your state and local real estate associations as well as the National Association of Realtors. These groups offer networking opportunities, professional resources, and training programs.
What to Expect as a Real Estate Agent
Excellent sales skills and an acute sense of customer service are required for a real estate agent to be successful. This is especially essential in commission-based careers, where your earnings depend on how many home sales you make.
Real estate agents spend their days meeting with potential clients and educating them on market conditions, mortgage rates, and other aspects of buying or selling a home. Furthermore, they use data from the multiple listing service (MLS) database to locate homes that suit their client’s individual requirements.
Real estate agents can work as agents with brokerages, property management groups, or independent contractors. The most common way to break into the industry is as a sales trainee at one of those firms.
Once you’ve gained experience as a sales trainee, you can advance to more senior roles within the company. You need great people skills and the ability to negotiate with clients effectively, but with more access to valuable business resources and other support staff members.
As your real estate career develops, consider working for a large brokerage. This will allow you to network with other agents and gain an edge over other local agents.
Depending on your region, real estate agent work can be both office and fieldwork. You’ll need to travel to their homes or property at various times throughout the day, night, and weekends to provide service to clients.
