Can You Obtain a Real Estate License Online?
If you want to start working as a real estate agent or broker in the US, you need a real estate license. The process is easy but can seem daunting, especially if this is your first time and you do not have the right guide. But you need not worry; we have you covered so you can obtain a real estate license online.
A real estate license is an official permit that allows anyone to legally assist others in buying, selling, or renting properties.
This license ensures that the person is qualified to work as a real estate agent or broker. To get this license, one must complete the required education, pass a state exam, and apply to the state’s real estate board.
Here is the best guide to help you obtain a license online and start your career instantly. It will also show you how to renew your real estate license every two years, which is a legal requirement in most states.
5-Step Guide to Obtaining a Real Estate License Online
Step #1: Research and Fulfill State Requirements
Start by learning about the regulations specific to your state for obtaining a real estate license. Ensure that your age and educational qualifications (high school diploma or equivalent degree) meet the standards. Also, make sure that you research the application process and fees.
There might be other prerequisite requirements, such as a clean background history. The good thing is that all the information is available online on various authority websites and social media platforms, making it easy.
Another thing is to check if your state has reciprocal licensing agreements. These agreements allow you to take the exam and get a license in one state but also legally practice in other states, depending on their rules.
Step #2: Choose a Reputable Real Estate School
The next thing you need to do is take a pre-license course, as most states require you to complete specific hours of pre-license course and familiarize yourself with the format and content of the state online real estate licensing exam. For this, choosing a reliable real estate online school or course provider is important.
A great real estate school in the US should have the following features:
- Various commissions and authorities across the US must certify institutions that offer online real estate education. So, before choosing an online school, ensure it has the proper certification and approvals and is an accredited and recognized school.
- Ensure the school charges reasonable fees and provides value for your money. Comparison websites can help you choose the country’s most affordable online real estate school.
- Additionally, look for universities that provide extensive student support, such as career resources and instructor access.
To evaluate the quality of a course, seek online reviews and ratings. If you are unsure where to start, you can find out here.
Step #3: Complete the Pre-Licensing Course and Exam
Once you choose your institution, enroll in the required pre-licensing classes. Depending on state requirements, these courses can range from 20 to 170 hours and typically cost between $200 and $1000.
After completing your courses, apply for the real estate exam. Some states allow you to apply before completing all your education hours, speeding up the licensing process.
The exam includes,
- 75 to 150 multiple-choice questions.
- The minimum passing score is 70%
- It lasts between 2 to 3.5 hours
- The fee can fall between $40 and $200.
Preparation is essential to pass the real estate licensing exam. To ensure you ace the test, take practice exams, focus on contracts, property laws, and real estate ethics, and stay updated on any rule changes. Furthermore, utilize digital resources like sample exams, e-books, video lectures, and online study groups.
Once you pass the exam, get a copy of your exam score or certification from your school.
Step #4: Find a Sponsoring Broker
Now, before you go ahead and apply for your license, you need a sponsoring broker. A sponsoring broker sponsors and mentors your first few years as an agent. They will help you learn how the real estate world works, teach you the ins and outs of the field, and help you settle into your daily operations as a real estate agent.
Therefore, carefully choose a broker with a strong reputation, expertise in their specialty, and up-to-date knowledge of rules and regulations.
Step #5: Fill the Real Estate License Application
Finally, complete your real estate license application by paying the application fee (which is typically under $100) and submitting the required documents. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to 6 months for you to get your license.
How to Renew Your Real Estate License Online?
You need to renew your real estate license every two years. This process has requirements that are typically easier than the initial application.
- The main requirement is to complete a continuing real estate education course, which you should do three months before applying for renewal. It allows ample time to register with the same online real estate school you used initially and fulfill the learning hours required by the authorities.
- You will also need to pay license renewal fees, which vary from state to state. It can range anywhere between $40 to $400.
- Additionally, each state may have other requirements you must fulfill before applying for the license renewal. Use online government portals or other reliable sources to obtain updated information about the process and follow it right.
Why to Obtain a Real Estate License Online?
Obtaining a license to become a real estate broker online has several perks.
- Adaptability: You can arrange your real estate online courses around your schedule and study independently. Some people study while balancing other responsibilities in their careers.
- Accessibility: Real estate online courses are available anytime and from anywhere. You can access them using any device, such as a computer or mobile phone.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Real estate online learning is frequently less expensive than traditional classroom learning.
- Diverse Resources: You can easily access a variety of real estate online materials, such as webinars, interactive courses, and movies.
Final Thoughts
The online real estate license world can be straightforward and rewarding with the right guidance and resources. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily obtain and renew your real estate license, setting the stage for a successful career in the real estate industry.
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