Knowing how to get a real estate license is the first step to enjoying a fruitful career in real estate. Here’s how to get started.
Ready to take on the world of real estate?
If you answered yes, then you have made a great choice. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 444,100 jobs for real estate agents in the United States in 2016. This is likely to have increased since that time.
If you wish to be employed as a real estate agent you will need to ensure that you get your license.
Perhaps you are wondering exactly how you can go about doing this. Here are some tips that will help make the process of getting your real estate license a smooth one.
1. Research
Every state has its own specific requirements. The first thing you should do is find out the minimum requirements for licensing.
Here are some common minimum requirements:
• High School Diploma
• Real estate training
• Background Check
• Fingerprint check
• State residency
This is a short list, so check your state’s real estate commission site for more details.
2. Take a Pre-Licensing Course
There are many ways to complete your training in real estate. This makes it easy for you to choose a method that is accessible and comfortable for you.
You can choose to do a home study, go to real estate classes at universities and technical schools. You can even do online classes.
Ensure that you select a reputable school that will show you the legalities of the business. A good school will also show you how to help clients choose the best places to live as they make the journey towards home ownership.
3. Apply and Take the State Exam
When it is time to apply to take the exam, you should be aware that there is often a licensing fee involved. You may have to do a fingerprint and background check before you can even apply to take the exam in some states.
Find out if you need these because they can take several weeks to process and can slow down your licensing.
In some cases you will need to pass a national exam and a state exam, so be prepared to take both. Often this is done in separate sittings.
4. Get a Broker Before Getting Your Real Estate License
In order to work in the field for the first two years, you will be required to work with a broker such as Ashby & Graff Advantage. This will give you experience and sharpen your negotiation skills.
It is a good idea to start looking around and seeing if there is a broker who is willing to sponsor you even before you complete your training.
Final Thoughts
A career in real estate begins when you get your real estate license. However, there are many steps you need to take in order to ensure that you get licensed.
If you take the time to find out your state requirements, take the right classes and do all the necessary preparation before exam day, you should realize your dream of becoming a real estate agent.
