What are the steps to becoming a real estate agent?
Now that you’re ready to become a real estate agent, the next step is obtaining your real estate license. The requirements for real estate licensing vary widely from state to state. Some states require a certain level of education, and/or a certain number of credit hours in real estate coursework before you can take your licensing exam
. Understand your state’s requirements
The first step in learning how to become a real estate agent is to research your state's pre-license course requirements. Each state is different so it's important that you pay attention to which courses are required for your state.
2. Select a real estate school
Make sure you select an ARELLO-accredited real estate school that offers pre-licensing coursework specific to your state. You will also want to decide if an online school or a classroom is the best option for you. We’ve put together a list of five key questions to ask when choosing a real estate school that can help you make an informed decision.
3. Complete your pre-licensing coursework
All states require some form of pre-licensing coursework before you can take the real estate licensing exam. The type and amount of coursework needed will vary from state to state. Determine how much your pre-licensing coursework will cost in case you need to save some money or get financing before you launch your real estate career.
4. Study for your real estate pre-licensing exam
Before you can take your state real estate exam, you’ll have to pass the pre-licensing exam at the end of your coursework. Many students choose online coursework, in which case this exam will be online, too. Don’t be intimidated by the thought of studying for an exam, even if you’ve been out of school for a while. These study hacks can help you maximize your time and set you up for success on test day. Once you pass, you'll need to obtain your official transcripts or a certificate of course completion.
5. Apply for and schedule your state real estate exam
Once you pass your real estate pre-licensing coursework, it's time to sign up for your state licensing exam. Usually, the application fee is about $25. Research when and where the next real estate exam will be in your state. These are most frequently administered by third-party testing centers. Make sure you get information about parking, hours and any materials you’ll need to bring with you on test day.
6. Select a broker
Depending on your state, you may be required to be sponsored by your broker in order to take the real estate exam. Choosing your broker may happen at this stage, or it may happen later, once you pass your test and are ready to start working. Selecting a broker to work for is one of the biggest steps of your real estate career. Your broker can influence how you get paid, how much you earn, your niche and what resources are available to help you advance in your career. Make sure you do your research on this step and find a broker who truly meshes with your goals.
7. Pass your state licensing exam
Taking and passing your state licensing exam is one of the most important steps on our checklist of how to become a real estate agent. Each state has different passing requirements for the licensing exam. To help ensure you pass your exam the first time, remember to consider taking a real estate exam prep course.
8. Join professional real estate organizations
Once you’ve passed the exam and earned your real estate license, you’ll want to become a member of your state and local Multiple Listing Services (MLS) and perhaps the National Association of REALTORS®. These organizations provide valuable networking tools and professional resources. As a member, you’ll be able to attend national conferences and get access to valuable research that can help you stay updated on trends and best practices in your niche.
9. Complete necessary real estate post-licensing coursework
A handful of states require you to complete real estate post-licensing coursework within the first 6–12 months after you obtain your real estate license. Don’t let this slip from your radar.
10. Launch your real estate career
Once you have all your systems in place, let everyone know you’re in the real estate business. Soon you’ll start interacting with potential buyers and sellers, and you’ll be in business! Now comes the part you’ve been waiting for — your first transaction. Even if you feel confident it’s always a good idea to have a more experienced agent check your work to make sure you’re doing the very best for your clients. After it’s all done, sit down, give yourself a pat on the back and smile — you’re officially a real estate agent.
