How to Become a Real Estate Agent

Becoming a real estate agent can be an exciting and rewarding career path. Let me guide you through the step-by-step process of becoming a successful real estate agent.

Bryan Reynolds

Author

Licensed Real Estate Agent

Bryan Reynolds, a Licensed Real Estate Agent and seasoned marketing professional, brings over 20 years of industry experience to his insightful blog posts. His vast knowledge ensures readers are getting expert advice they can trust.

Step 1: Understand the Basics of the Real Estate Industry

As a potential real estate agent, it's essential to understand the basics of the real estate industry.

The housing market is dynamic, with rising interest rates impacting potential buyers.
Real estate law and real estate transactions are crucial aspects of your job.
You'll need to guide clients through buying and selling residential or commercial property.

Transitioning into the real estate industry requires a substantial commitment but can lead to a successful career as your own boss.

Step 2: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you start your journey, make sure you meet the basic requirements for becoming a real estate agent.

High school diploma or equivalent
At least 18 years old (requirements vary by state)
U.S. citizen or legal resident

Choosing a new career is a significant decision, so ensure you're prepared for the journey ahead. It's important to remember when learning how to become a real estate agent.

Step 3: Complete Your Real Estate Courses for Prelicensing Education

Next, you'll need to complete your real estate prelicensing education.

Community colleges, real estate schools, and online platforms offer real estate courses.
Coursework typically includes topics like real estate principles, real estate law, and practice real estate.
You'll need to complete a certain number of credit hours, typically between 60 and 90.

After completing your pre-licensing courses, you're one step closer to becoming a licensed agent. This is an important next step when learning how to become a real estate agent.

Step 4: Pass the Real Estate License Exam

The next step is to pass the real estate exam for a license.

The exam tests your understanding of real estate law, principles, and practices.
A passing grade is usually 70%, but this varies by state.
You may retake the exam if you do not pass on your first attempt.

Passing the real estate licensing exam is a critical milestone in your real estate career.

Step 5: Find a Sponsoring Brokerage firm

Before you can practice as a licensed real estate agent, you'll need to find a sponsoring licensed broker.

Brokers provide on-the-job training and guide new agents through their first few transactions.
Many brokers also provide marketing materials and office space.
It's important to find the right broker who can provide the support you need.

Working with a broker is an opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and build your client base. As a new licensed real estate salesperson, you want to work with real estate brokers who offer great ongoing continuing education, support, resources, and more.

Step 6: Apply for Your Real Estate License

The final step is to apply for your real estate license.

You'll need to provide official transcripts from your prelicensing education and proof of passing the state exam.
Some states also require a background check.
Once approved, you'll receive your new real estate license and can start practicing.

After receiving your license, you're officially a real estate agent and can start assisting clients buy and sell properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a college degree to become a real estate agent?

No, a high school diploma is usually sufficient. However, some brokers prefer agents with bachelor's degrees.

Can I work independently as a real estate agent?

Yes, but many new agents choose to work under a broker for additional training and support.

What are the educational requirements to become a real estate agent?

Requirements vary by state, but most require completion of pre-licensing courses and passing the state exam.

Can I practice real estate in multiple states?

Yes, but you'll need to meet each state's license requirements, which may include additional education and exams.

What does a real estate agent do?

Real estate agents assist clients in buying and selling properties. This can involve hosting open houses, negotiating contracts, and guiding clients through the closing process.

How much can I expect to make as a real estate agent?

Income varies greatly depending on location, market conditions, and how many deals you close.

How long does it take to become a real estate agent?

It typically takes several months to complete the required education, pass the exam, and obtain your license.

Is there a demand for real estate agents?

Yes, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady job growth for real estate agents over the next decade.

What's the difference between a real estate agent and a real estate broker?

A broker is typically more experienced and has additional education and licensing requirements. Brokers can work independently or hire agents to work for them.

It's a Great Career Choice

Becoming a real estate agent can be a rewarding career choice. It requires dedication, hard work, and continuous learning. But with the right preparation and mindset, you can find success in the dynamic world of real estate. Good luck on your journey towards becoming a real estate professional.

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Step 1 – You have to get licensed.

And to get licensed, you have to go through some classes. So, in my case I have two licenses one in Missouri and one in Kansas. For Kansas, I go through the Kansas real estate commission, or KREC. They have a website that’s easy to navigate and you can find accredited schools to get your required hours for you license.

Step 2 – Take your exams.

And there are a couple. There’s a state and a national exam. And they do require that you pass the national exam with 75%. You do get to take it over. It is a difficult test and most real estate agents don’t pass it their first time.

I didn’t.

So you do really have to take it seriously and study for it.

Step 3 – Find a Broker

Once you’ve passed your exams and been issued your license, or licenses depending on which state you’re working in, you find a brokerage to take your license to. It’s unlikely, that as a new agent, you’ll have enough experience to meet the state requirement to become a broker. Some states you will some states you won’t. 50 different states, 50 different ways of doing it. But in Kansas and Missouri you have to have a certain amount of experience before you can apply for a broker’s license. So a new agent will have to find a broker to hold their license. And then once you’re there, you’re a real estate agent. And you must take some initiative for step 4.

Step 4 – Going out and finding clients.

Or as some people call it ‘hitting the pavement.’ Now, you can look got people you know and have worked with before. Go to networking events, you can buy internet leads. There’s a number of ways you can do it. But most agents will still say even as far as technology has come, the basics of getting on the phone and getting in front of people still work the best.

So, if you want to be a real estate agent, there’s basically 4 steps.

Take your classroom hours,
take your exam,
find a broker,
get after it.

If you’re looking to be a new real estate agent, best of luck to you and happy house hunting.