what course to take to be a real estate agent

by Burdette Kessler 10 min read

What classes to take to become a real estate agent?

Step by Step Guide to Become a Real Estate Agent in 60 Days or Less!

  1. Check State Requirements. The best way to start out if you want to become a real estate agent in 60 days is to check your state requirements.
  2. Take Pre-Licensure Course. Once you have checked your state requirements for how to become a real estate agent, it is time to choose a pre-licensure course.
  3. Take Exam Prep. ...
  4. Apply and Take the State Exam. ...

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Is a degree required for being a real estate agent?

Usually, Real Estate Agents don't need a college education. The most common degree for Real Estate Agents is Bachelor's Degree with 59% graduates, with only 20% Real Estate Agent graduates earning Associate Degree. Real Estate Agents who decided to graduate from college often finish University of Phoenix or Arizona State University.

What are the requirements to become a real estate agent?

While requirements vary by state, nearly all states require applicants to:

  • Be at least 18 years or older
  • Have official residency in the US
  • Have a high school diploma or an equivalent of a high school degree
  • Complete a pre-licensing course
  • Take and pass the real estate exam

How to become real estate agent in 5 steps?

Steps to Becoming a Real Estate Agent

  1. Research the Industry. Before you become a real estate agent, it’s a good idea to get to know the industry. ...
  2. Interview Brokerage Firms. As a real estate agent, you need to be licensed through a brokerage firm. ...
  3. Take Your Pre-license Training and License Exam. ...
  4. Sign Up With Your Brokerage Firm. ...
  5. Join Local, State and National Real Estate Agent Associations. ...

What education do I need to be a real estate agent?

High school diploma or equivalentReal Estate Broker / Entry level education

What should I learn to get into real estate?

You can become a real estate agent in about four to six months, depending on where you live. Online prelicensing classes can speed up the process. Requirements vary by state, but the general steps are to take a real estate prelicensing course, take the licensing exam, activate your license, and join a brokerage.

How long does it take to get a real estate license?

4-6 monthsOn average it takes at least 4-6 months to get a real estate license in a traditional classroom. If you're taking your real estate pre-licensing course online, it can take as little as 8 weeks depending on how fast you want to pace yourself.

How much do real estate agents make?

The standard commission for estate agents is 8.25% of the sale. However, there are no regulations governing the amount an estate agent should be paid.

How to Become A Real Estate Agent

Still, buying and selling real estate isn't as easy as it might look. And it's a notoriously tough industry for newbies; some real estate experts l...

Step 1: Take A Pre-Licensing Course

Cost: $200 to $300States require people to take pre-licensing training from a certified institution before they can sit for the real estate licensi...

Step 2: Take The Licensing Exam

Cost: $100 to $300Revisit your state real estate commission's website for instructions on how to sign up to take the licensing exam. (Most states o...

Step 3: Get Your Real Estate Ducks in A Row

Pass the test? Congratulations! Here's what you need to do next to start engaging with clients: 1. Activate your license through your state real es...

Step 4: Consider Becoming A REALTOR®

In order to become a full-fledged Realtor®—a licensed agent with the ability to use that widely respected title—you need to be a member of the Nati...

Step 5: Join A Brokerage

In order to become a real estate agent and legally practice real estate, you must work under a supervising broker. Brokers are licensed by the stat...

What degree do I need to become a real estate agent?

There are also bachelor's degree and master's degree programs available in real estate. These programs can be especially beneficial for those who wish to pursue additional opportunities above that of a real estate sales agent in the field, such as a broker or property manager.

How old do you have to be to become a real estate broker?

Some common requirements include being eighteen years of age, holding a high school diploma, passing a licensing exam, successfully completing a background check, and getting sponsorship from a licensed real estate broker.

What are some examples of pre-licensure real estate classes?

Some examples of what will be taught in a pre-licensure real estate classes include: Real estate terminology. Fair housing laws.

Where can I take pre-licensure classes?

State-approved pre-licensure classes can be found at private organizations specializing in real estate training as well as public colleges and universities. Depending on the provider, classes can meet on weekends, weekdays or online, but keep in mind that some states permit online courses while others require in-person education.

Is it hard to pass real estate exam?

Real estate exams can be difficult to pass, but with proper preparation, you'll be on your way to passing and earning your real estate license. Read on to learn about the four exam-prep steps you should take in order to ace your test.

How much does it cost to become a real estate agent?

Cost: $200 to $300. States require people to take pre-licensing training from a certified institution before they can sit for the real estate licensing exam. The required number of training hours can vary significantly by jurisdiction: In Virginia, for example, real estate agents must take 60 hours of pre-licensing training, ...

How many questions are asked in the real estate exam?

Both typically consist of 60 to 100 multiple-choice questions, including math questions that require you to use a calculator (e.g., prorating taxes for a specific property).

What is a broker license?

Brokers are licensed by the state to oversee real estate transactions and ensure that real estate salespeople (that’s you!) are adhering to the required legal and ethical standards.Think of it as a similar safeguard to how stockbrokers must work at a licensed firm to trade stocks, rather than just winging it on their own.

How often do you have to take the Florida license exam?

In some states like Florida, 50% fail the first time . The bright side is you can usually take the exam as often as you want over a two-year period. But once two years elapse, applicants are required to retake the pre-licensing course.

Is it easy to sell real estate?

Still, buying and selling real estate isn’t as easy as it might look. And it’s a notoriously tough industry for newbies; some real estate experts like industry vet Tom Ferry estimate that 87% of all new agents fail within the first five years. All of which means you should carefully weigh the risks and rewards of joining this profession.

Do brokerages pay when you complete a transaction?

In other words, you get paid only when you complete a transaction, and you typically won’t receive benefits. Due to this pay structure, brokerages are typically eager to welcome new agents, since it comes at no cost to the company.

Research Your State Requirements

If you decide becoming an agent is right for you, you will need to take specific classes and pass the real estate exam. Every state has different licensing requirements in terms of how many hours of education you need to take.

Take a Pre-licensing Course

To become a real estate agent, you’ll need to take a pre-licensing course. The amount of coursework you will need will vary from state to state. For example, in Georgia, you need to take 75 hours of classes before taking the licensing exam. In Texas, you need 180 hours of coursework.

Take the Licensing Exam

After you complete your pre-licensing education, you will need to take the final exam. The exam is taken through the state and your real estate school should provide you with information on how to schedule and register for the test.

Activate Your License

After your pass your exam, you will need to submit an application along with any required fees to your state real estate organization. Fees usually run between $200 and $400.

Consider Becoming a Realtor

Now that you know how to become a real estate agent, you may want to think about becoming a realtor.

Join a Real Estate Brokerage

As a new agent, you need to join a brokerage. The brokerage help you market yourself, find clients, and get valuable real estate experience.

Create a Strong Online Presence

Marketing yourself properly will help you attract more clients and earn more revenue. With 82% of buyers starting their real estate search online, it’s essential to have a strong online presence.

How long does it take to become a real estate agent?

The entire process to become a real estate agent can be done as fast as you want. On average, agents will take four to six months to complete the pre-licensing classes. If you don’t need to work a full-time job as you train, you can complete the course much faster.

How many hours of training is required for a real estate license?

The classroom version may cost more than the online version. Each state is a bit different. Some states will require around 60 hours for pre-licensing training, while others may require double or more. You will learn the principles necessary and the practices and legal aspects of the real estate industry. 2.

How much does it cost to get a real estate license?

After completing the pre-licensing courses, you’ll need to pass the real estate licensing exam. It will cost between $100 and $300 to take the test, depending on your state. The exam will include sections for the federal real estate laws and general real estate principles.

How many people want to become a real estate agent in 2021?

Real Estate » How To Become a Real Estate Agent. Information Last Verified: June 28, 2021 by Jordan Fabel. More than 14,000 people want to know how to become a real estate agent every month in the United States. With about 2 million real estate licenses out there, it’s a popular profession. It’s not easy to become a real estate agent, ...

Is it important to choose the right brokerage?

The right brokerage can make a huge difference for a new real estate agent. While the rest of the process of becoming a real estate agent is important, this is another very important step. Choosing the wrong brokerage may lead to failure, even if it’s a good brokerage.

Is it worth getting a real estate license?

While getting your real estate license might take some time, it can be worth it . A successful agent can make a very nice living. It’s not easy to help buyers and sellers with their real estate needs, however. The real estate industry is known for being difficult for newbies.

Do real estate agents get paid?

Typically, real estate agents don’t get paid a salary. Most brokerages pay 100% commission. This is something you may need to be prepared for, as it can take several months to close your first real estate deal and get paid. However, once you get things moving, you can make a very nice living as a real estate agent.

What is real estate agent?

Real estate agents working for buyers focus on assisting prospective home or property owners. They specialize in the acquisition side of transactions. This usually includes helping buyers locate properties that meet their needs and fit specified budget requirements, handling paperwork, and coordinating inspections.

How often do I need to renew my real estate license?

Once you pass the appropriate exam, you can receive your real estate license. Most candidates receive an application for licensure in the mail once they've passed the exam. They must complete the application and return it, along with fingerprints and any applicable fees. In most states, real estate professionals must renew their licenses every few years.

What is commercial real estate?

Commercial Real Estate: Commercial real estate agents focus on buying, locating, and selling properties for businesses and organizations . Unlike homes or apartments, these properties are zoned for commercial use, and often have to meet more stringent regulations. While this often includes city properties, it can also include developmental or agricultural properties, such as those used for farming or mining.

What is dual agent?

Dual agents assume the responsibilities of both buyer and listing agent within the same transaction. They represent the interests of the seller and the new property owner, which can shorten the negotiation process and simplify accrued commission fees.

What is a listing agent?

Listing agents work on the seller side of real estate transactions. Their responsibilities include putting new properties on the market and crafting listing advertisements. They also show properties, coordinate property inspections, and engage in negotiations during the sales process.

What is an associate broker?

Associate brokers are entry-level brokers who work for more experienced firms, which hold or sponsor their licenses. They take on more responsibilities than real estate agents, but still need additional supervision not required for brokers with more senior titles.

What is a managing broker?

Managing brokers oversee the daily operations of large real estate firms in the commercial sector. They manage staff and work to obtain new clients through referrals. They usually have advanced management skills, along with significant real estate experience as agents or REALTORS®.

How old do you have to be to become a real estate agent?

To become a real estate agent, you need to: Be at least 18 years of age and a US resident. In the US, the most basic requirements before you can take the licensing courses and exam are that you are at least 18 years old (or 19, depending on the state) and have legal resident status. States may also require prospective agents to have ...

How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Florida?

These courses vary widely by state—for instance, in Florida, it takes around 60 hours of work, while in California, it’s about 135. Pass your state’s licensing exam. After completing your pre-licensing courses, you’ll be eligible to take the real estate licensing exam.

How long does it take to pass the real estate exam?

The exams vary by state, but all are multiple-choice and take between 90 minutes and three hours to complete.

What is a realtor?

Realtor: Realtor is a special designation for real estate agents that are active members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and adhere to its code of ethics. Some real estate agents become realtors for extra credibility and to take advantage of NAR’s additional tools and courses. Seller’s agent: A seller’s agent represents ...

What are the different types of real estate agents?

5 Types of Real Estate Agents. Here are the different types of real estate professionals: Broker: A real estate broker is an agent who is licensed to run their own firm. They can either work independently (as opposed to under a brokerage) or serve as a brokerage for other agents. Buyer’s agent: A buyer’s agent represents the interests ...

What is a real estate agent?

A real estate agent (also called a real estate salesperson) is a licensed person who helps buyers, sellers, and renters of property enter into and complete transactions. Basic real estate agents must work underneath a real estate broker (either an individual or a firm) and are paid by commission, earning a small percentage from each real estate ...

Can a real estate agent work part time?

They can work either part-time or full-time and may typically work weekends when sellers or buyers are more readily available. “Real estate agent” is a general term that refers to an array of real estate professionals, including brokers, buyer’s agents, dual agents, realtors, and seller’s agents, each with their own specific expertise.

How many hours of real estate training do I need?

Depending on your state, you must complete between 60 and 90 hours of real estate training to begin. Most real estate classes cover soft skills, such as time management. You also learn real estate basics and discover how to list, price and sell properties.

What do you do when you are a real estate agent?

When you enter a career as a real estate agent, you also show homes to prospective buyers in addition to answering any questions they have. You record offers and show them to the sellers. In some cases, sellers will want your advice on whether they should sell the property or hold onto it for a little longer.

What can I learn from a psychology degree?

You learn the basics of human behavior and why people do the things they do. This degree program covers emotions and the various ways people manage them in their daily lives, providing valuable insights into the human mind. You will even learn about different personality disorders and how to manage them.

What can I learn from a finance degree?

As you study finance, you learn the basics of economics, financial reporting and more. You discover how to predict future market trends and what investments are worth making. You can calculate your spending and predict how much profit you will generate in the following months.

How much does a real estate agent make?

On average, entry-level real estate agents earn about $45,000 per year, which translates to approximately $18.00 per hour depending on how much you work each week. You can advance your career by becoming a real estate broker and earning $55,000 each year.

What is the emphasis of real estate?

Real Estate Studies Emphasis topics include leasing of real estate, sales, and mortgage lending. Gain the technical, business, communication, and management skills to advance your career in the field of real estate and become an effective business leader, studying sales, market analysis, finance, ethics, law, and more.

Do I need a degree to become a real estate agent?

Although you don’t need a degree to become a real estate agent, having one lets you stand out from the crowd when looking for places to work.

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Exam Preparation Courses

  • Before you head to the testing center to take your licensing exam, many people find it helpful to take an exam preparation class. While the pre-licensing courses satisfy your state’s requirements, an exam preparation coursewill help you study specific material that will be on your test. When s…
See more on realestateexpress.com

Post-Licensing Courses

  • Some states require you to take additional classes within months of obtaining your license that will prepare you for your first license renewal. These courses typically help you understand new laws and regulations in real estate and assist with your business planning. When you check your state’s full real estate license requirements there should also be a note about post-licensing cou…
See more on realestateexpress.com

Continuing Education Courses

  • Each state has different rules about the amount of continuing education classes required for reach real estate agent, but it’s important to know that you’ll most likely have to factor in some continuing education each year. So when you’re wondering “what are the classes I need to become a real estate agent?” know that your education goes beyond just getting licensed. To co…
See more on realestateexpress.com

Pre-Licensing Courses to Take Before You Become An Agent

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You’ll want to start your journey to becoming a real estate agent with classes from an accredited real estate licensing school — which is the first thing to focus on when trying to determine “what are the classes I need?” To become a real estate agent, you must take the pre-licensing course no matter what state you live in. Th…
See more on mckissock.com

Exam Preparation Courses

  • Before you head to the testing center to take your licensing exam, many people find it helpful to take an exam preparation class. While the pre-licensing courses satisfy your state’s requirements, an exam preparation coursewill help you study specific material that will be on your test. When searching for the right exam preparation course, look for one that offers a money-back guarante…
See more on mckissock.com

Post-Licensing Courses

  • Some states require you to take additional classes within months of obtaining your license that will prepare you for your first license renewal. These courses typically help you understand new laws and regulations in real estate and assist with your business planning. When you check your state’s full real estate license requirements there should also be a note about post-licensing cou…
See more on mckissock.com

Continuing Education Courses

  • Each state has different rules about the amount of continuing education classes required for reach real estate agent, but it’s important to know that you’ll most likely have to factor in some continuing education each year. So when you’re wondering “what are the classes I need to become a real estate agent?” know that your education goes beyond just getting licensed. To co…
See more on mckissock.com