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Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Licensed Real Estate Agent: Pre-Licensing, Exam, and Continuing Education Requirements
Are you thinking about becoming a real estate agent? Well, you’re in luck! There’s no specific degree required to become a real estate agent (although some college education can certainly be helpful). But before you jump in headfirst, there are a few things you should know about the educational requirements for becoming a real estate agent.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that every state has its own requirements for becoming a licensed real estate agent. In general, though, here’s what you can expect:
- Pre-licensing education: Most states require that aspiring real estate agents complete a certain number of hours of pre-licensing education before they can sit for the licensing exam. These courses cover topics such as real estate law, contracts, and principles of agency. The number of hours required can vary from state to state, but it’s usually around 60-90 hours.
- Licensing exam: Once you’ve completed your pre-licensing education, you’ll need to pass a licensing exam. This exam typically consists of a national portion, which covers general real estate principles and laws, and a state-specific portion, which covers state-specific laws and regulations.
- Continuing education: Most states require that real estate agents complete a certain number of hours of continuing education every year (or every two years) in order to maintain their license. This helps ensure that agents stay up-to-date on industry developments and best practices.
So, do you need a college degree to become a real estate agent? Technically, no. But that doesn’t mean a degree isn’t useful. A degree in real estate, business, or a related field can undoubtedly give you a leg up when it comes to understanding the ins and outs of the industry. Plus, many real estate brokerages and companies prefer to hire agents with a college degree.
But even if you don’t have a degree, that doesn’t mean you can’t succeed as a real estate agent. Plenty of successful agents have little to no formal education in real estate. What really matters is your drive, determination, and willingness to learn. If you’re willing to put in the work to get your license and stay up-to-date on industry developments, you can definitely make a career out of the real estate.
And let’s be real, a big part of being a successful real estate agent is having the right personality for the job. If you’re outgoing, personable, and have a knack for building relationships, you’ll be well on your way to success.
So, What Do You Need To Do To Become a Real Estate Agent?
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check your state’s requirements: As mentioned, every state has its own requirements for becoming a real estate agent. Start by checking with your state’s real estate commission or licensing board to find out what you need to do to get your license.
- Take pre-licensing education: Most states require that aspiring real estate agents complete a certain number of hours of pre-licensing education before they can sit for the licensing exam. You can usually take these courses online or in person at a local real estate school.
- Pass the licensing exam: Once you’ve completed your pre-licensing education, you’ll need to pass the licensing exam. This exam consists of a national portion and a state-specific portion, and you’ll need to pass both in order to get your license.
- Find a brokerage: Once you have your license, you’ll need to find a brokerage to work under. This can be a traditional brick-and-mortar brokerage, or it can be an online brokerage like Redfin or eXp Realty. Many brokerages offer training and support for new agents, so it’s worth considering what kind of support you want when choosing a brokerage.
- Get out there and sell! The most important thing for a real estate agent is, of course, selling property. This means finding clients, showing them properties, negotiating deals, and ultimately closing sales. This can be a challenging and unpredictable job, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
So, there you have it! Becoming a real estate agent doesn’t require a specific degree but a certain amount of education and a license. With the right education, determination, and personality, you can definitely make a successful career out of the real estate. Just remember to stay up-to-date on industry developments and best practices, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Good luck!
