Thinking about a career in Real Estate?
There’s never been a better time to earn your real estate license and get started in the business. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment of real estate agents and brokers to grow by 14% between 2008 and 2018.* Starting your career now will put you in a great position to establish yourself as an ally to buyers and sellers in your community, and build your foundation for long-term success.
So, what does it take to get started? The licensing requirements and fees are different in every state. The only general national requirements are that you must be a U.S. citizen, be over the age of 18, and pass a background check. But the basic requirements to become a real estate are:
STEP 1: Pre-Licensing Education
Every state in the U.S. requires that you complete some sort of pre-licensing education before becoming a real estate agent. Each state has different pre-licensing requirements, and some states also require post-licensing education. To see your state’s specific requirements, visit the website of your state’s real estate commission.
STEP 2: Choose Your Brokerage
Before you can begin work as a real estate agent/salesperson, you need to partner with a brokerage. Brokers are the agencies that manage real estate professionals. A broker can be an incredible resource for you, and it’s important that you take the time to select a broker you feel can help you be successful. Here are a few things to consider:
- Does the brokerage you are considering offer any sort of mentorship for new agents?
- Do you want to work with a brokerage that is more hands-on, or one that allows you more freedom to work independently?
- How do current and past agents who have worked with that brokerage feel about the organization?
Choosing the brokerage that fits your goals can make all the difference in achieving satisfaction and success in your new career.
STEP 3: Pass the Licensing Exam
The final step to earning your license and becoming a real estate agent is passing the licensing exam. Each state’s exam is different, and includes a state and national portion. The key to passing your real estate exam, like any exam, is preparation.
Where to Begin:
When you’re ready to get started, turn to Real Estate School Online. We have partnered with the nation’s premiere online real estate education providers to give you access to exceptional pre-licensing, post-licensing, exam prep, and continuing education courses in most states throughout the country. And we are constantly adding new courses.
To see which courses are available, select your state from the map below:
