Real estate is an exciting and rewarding field. If you enjoy working with people and helping them find a home, obtaining a real estate license is your next step. Here are some tips to help you understand what it takes to become a real estate agent.
Research Requirements
The most important step to becoming a real estate agent is to do a lot of research. While starting a career as a real estate agent is fairly easy compared to other jobs, it’s essential to find out what your state requires. Each state has different requirements and regulations including fees, licensing courses, age, background check, etc. Make sure you follow the required steps to obtain a license in your state.
Take Pre-Licensing Courses
Now that you know what rules and regulations you must follow, it’s time to take pre-licensing courses. Your options for taking courses is variable including traditional schools, online schools and real estate schools. Check in to several options because some schools may be less expensive than others. The number of classes and hours vary depending on each state so find out what your state requires, especially if you’re completing your schooling online. Consider taking more courses to obtain additional licenses such as a community association management license.
Take the Exam
Once you’ve taken all the required courses and completed your hours, it’s time to take the licensing exam. There are typically two portions to the exam: the first portion covers national real estate laws and procedures and the second portion covers specific state real estate principles. Each section is scored separately but you’ll need to pass both sections in order to obtain your license. Don’t worry if you fail one or both sections because you have the opportunity to retake the exam.
Consider Your Options
Once you’ve passed the licensing exam, get to work! Hopefully, you’ve already started networking with people so that you can get your business started. It’s a good idea to consider becoming a realtor and joining a brokerage as well. A realtor and agent are often mistaken for the same job but a realtor adheres to strict standards and is a member of the National Association of Realtors. They enjoy specific tools and benefits and typically have more credentials and certifications.
Many agents work under a broker and get paid a percentage of the commissions from your real estate transactions. As you’re getting started as an agent, be willing to be flexible with your schedule in order to be available to your clients.
If you’d like to become a real estate agent, do some research, take pre-licensing classes, take the exam and consider your options once you’ve passed the test.
