So you want to be a real estate agent in Florida? That is great! This is an exciting and challenging industry that can be very rewarding. You will need to do a few things to become a real estate agent. Remember that becoming a real estate agent is not easy; it takes hard work and dedication. If you are willing to put in the effort, you can achieve your dreams of becoming a successful real estate agent!
The Process of Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Florida
You need to fulfill specific requirements before starting your journey to become a real estate agent. You need to be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent qualifications, and you need to have a US social security number. Furthermore, you will have to pass a criminal background check. If you have all of this and you are ready to start helping people buy and sell property in the Sunshine State, here is what you have to do to get your license:
- Take your pre-license course
- Apply to take the Florida Real estate exam
- Take and pass the Florida State Real exam
- Affiliate with a broker
- Join a local Realtor association
These steps are critical and essential for becoming a real estate agent in Florida. However, there are other things you can do to help you succeed in this industry. It would be best if you continued to build your knowledge by taking real estate courses and seminars. You should also get involved with your local Realtor Association; this will give you access to resources, education, and networking opportunities that will help.
Becoming a Real Estate Agent Starts with a Pre-license Course
To be a successful real estate agent, you must first pass the class exam. The state-approved 63-hour pre-license course focuses on all things related to being in business and learning the laws and practices specifically for this industry. Topics include:
- The fundamentals of the real estate industry
- Statutes and regulations governing real estate
- Relationships between agencies
- How to comply with State and Federal Laws
- Real estate legislation
- Mortgages and financing options
This prepares students adequately before taking their next step towards becoming licensed, which consists of passing the test with a score of at least 70 percent. The course will give you the knowledge and confidence to pass the state licensing exam on your first try. Sign up for your pre-license course today with America’s Real Estate School!
Apply to Take the Florida Real Estate Exam
The Department of Business and Professional Regulations (DBPR) needs your electronic fingerprints to run a background check before you apply to take the state exam. You will need them at least five days before you send in the license application, so we recommend getting this done as soon as possible! The typical cost of this is around $50 to $80, depending on the vendor you use. During this process, you will also need to provide:
- Your Social Security
- ORI number.
You then apply and pay the fee either online or by mail. The DBPR reviews all applications, and The Pearson VUE company will notify you by email when they approve your application. This process can take up to 30 days. After this process is complete, you are off to take the state exam!
Take and Pass the Florida State Real Exam
Pearson VUE administers the state exam process and offers the course in various formats and locations. You should receive an email from them letting you know that you are eligible to take the test. This email will also include your nine-digit candidate ID number. You will need this number to sign your exam with Pearson VUE. You have to pass with a score of at least 75 percent. When you pass the exam, download and print your license; once activated, you will have a valid license for up to 24 months, depending on the day you passed the exam.
Affiliate with a Broker
Now that you have your license, you need to affiliate with a licensed broker. It will not be active unless you have done so. Your sponsoring broker will then activate your license. Get excited; you are now becoming a real estate agent!
Join a Local Realtor Association
Joining the local board of your broker is a great way to start your journey when becoming a real estate agent. You will be more involved in real estate and will probably want to join their corresponding association. The dues and offerings vary from place to place, so make sure you explore all options before deciding on anything final. Once you decide and join your local board, you will officially be a member of the Florida Realtors state association and the National Association of Realtors.
Becoming a Real Estate Agent with America’s Real Estate School
Now that you have your basics in becoming a real estate agent down, it is time to obtain your license. The best way to do this is by becoming a licensed real estate agent with America’s Real Estate School. We offer both the pre-licensing and post-licensing courses necessary to become and stay a successful real estate agent. Our online courses are easy to use and allow you to work at your own pace, making them perfect for any busy schedule. Call us today at (800) 604-2737 or contact us to register today.
