How to Become a Real Estate Agent

If you are thinking of beginning a career in real estate, you probably have questions about what a real estate agent does, what it takes to get your real estate license, and tips to make the most of this exciting career.

Whether you are changing careers after many years in another industry or beginning as a new real estate agent with only a small amount of professional experience, you can quickly become a real estate agent and grow a thriving real estate career.

Become a Real Estate Agent

Even though each state has its own requirements and process when it comes to becoming a real estate agent, all begin with completing a few key steps.

Keep in mind that you will need to be at least 18 years old in order to be eligible for a real estate license; you will also likely need to have obtained a high school diploma (or its equivalent).

Step 1: Complete a Pre-License Education Course

The first step to getting your insurance license is to take the required pre-licensing education classes. Your state will set the pre-licensing education hour and topic requirements for the real estate license.

Most states require courses that cover the fundamentals of working in real estate, which can include:

• Principles of Real Estate (45-60 hours): This course is required in most states.
• Real Estate Practice (45 hours): Most states require this or a similar course.
• Law of Agency (30 hours)
• Law of Contracts (30 hours)
• Promulgated Contract Forms (30 hours)
• Real Estate Finance (30 hours)

Some states allow “real estate elective” courses, which cover topics such as law of agency, law of contracts, promulgated contract forms, real estate finance, and other commonly-used concepts.

You will need to check with your state’s requirements before registering for courses to make sure that your classes will satisfy all applicable pre-licensing education requirements.

You can consider taking an exam prep course for additional resources and study materials. These courses can range from a focused study session completed during a weekend to a multi-week exam overview. Look for a course that includes practice exams and sample questions to make sure that you are familiar with the test, as well as for courses that are state-approved.

Tip: Check with your pre-licensing education provider to see if they include test prep in your pre-licensing education class or offer discounts for additional exam prep courses to former students. You may even be able to take a prep course with the same instructor.

Step 2: Complete the License Application

As you approach the end of your pre-licensing education courses, you can begin your license application. You will be asked to provide your contact information and Social Security Number to begin the application.

Many states have an online portal system with a secure log-in to collect this information. You may also be required to provide copies of your pre-licensing education course completion paperwork with your application when it is completed.

The cost of the application ranges from $45 to $205, depending on which state you are licensing in.

Some states require that you register for and pass the licensing exam before submitting your application. Other states ask that you begin your application, then take the exam, and finally submit your final completed application.

Step 3: Get Fingerprinted and Complete a Background Check

Once you submit your application, most states require you to get a background check and have your fingerprints taken. These costs are in addition to the application fee, usually between $35 and $100.

Most states include a permission form for the appropriate state and federal authorities to complete a background check with the application paperwork. The time required to get the completed background check can vary, even within the same state.

As the applicant, you just need to wait, but you can usually check the status of your application and background check using an online system and the same login that you created to submit your application.

Fingerprinting must be taken by an approved authority. Some states do this through a third-party private company, while others have local law enforcement agencies complete fingerprinting. Keep in mind that even if you have already had your fingerprints taken for another job or license, you will need to do this step again specifically for your real estate license application.

Step 4: Real Estate Licensing Exam

After completing your pre-licensing education and application, it’s time to get ready for the real estate license exam.

While the topics covered in your classes make up the bulk of the test, you should spend some time getting familiar with the test, using materials from your classes, a study guide, or a specific exam prep course.

The real estate exam is state-specific. It contains between 100 and 150 multiple-choice questions. Test takers are given between three and five hours to complete the exam. Some states divide questions into two sections: national and state. You will not have access to any study materials during the test or during breaks between the sections.

Each state designs its state real estate exam to cover the essential information a real estate agent needs to know. The topics are very similar across states, but sometimes states choose to focus more on a particular law or regulation that is unique to their state.

The New York real estate salesperson exam is divided into the following topics:

• License Law and Regulations
• Law of Agency
• Legal Issues (includes estates and interests, liens and easements, deeds, title closing, and costs)
• The Contract of Sales and Leases (includes leases, contracts, and contract preparation)
• Real Estate Finance
• Land Use Regulations
• Construction and Environmental Issues
• Valuation Process and Pricing Properties
• Human Rights and Fair Housing
• Real Estate Math
• Municipal Agencies
• Property Insurance
• Taxes and Assessments
• Condominiums and Cooperatives
• Commercial and Investment Properties
• Income Tax Issues in Real Estate Transactions
• Mortgage Brokers
• Property Management

Most states cover fundamental information needed to conduct a real estate transaction, as well as state laws and regulations that real estate agents must know and follow. You should also be familiar with the licensing process in your state, as you may be asked about licensing requirements, continuing education, and the renewal process.

When you arrive at the test center, you will need to have two forms of photo ID matching your name and address on your application. A test proctor will go over the procedures and policies and make sure that you do not have any prohibited items. Prohibited items include notes and study materials, personal electronic devices, bulky jackets or coats, purses, and backpacks.

The real estate exam costs between $35 and $130 for each attempt. Spending time and money on an exam prep course can help you pass the first time that you take the real estate exam. Paying for additional exam prep can greatly increase your chances of passing the real estate exam.

Each state sets its own passing score, but most fall between 70% and 75% to pass. If you pass, you usually do not get detailed score information.  If you fail, you will get a more detailed report that can help you refocus your studying efforts before you take the exam again. Your score is automatically reported as part of your application.

Study Tips for the Real Estate Exam

The best way to pass the real estate exam is to be prepared by studying. Your required pre-licensing education classes will teach you the fundamentals that you need to know, while an exam prep course can help you become more familiar with the test’s format and how to take a computer-based test.

Practice tests are one of the best ways to study for the real estate exam. Your pre-licensing education classes will often include practice tests, a great opportunity to gauge your progress and prepare for the exam. You can also seek out additional practice tests from your state or an exam prep course.

To make the most of your practice tests, treat them just like the real thing. This means turning off your personal electronic devices, setting a timer, putting away your notes, and relying on your knowledge of real estate. If you find that your score is not as high as it needs to be, look at which sections you need to concentrate on as you prepare for test day.

Step 5. Get an Appointment From a Broker

After you learn and demonstrate your professional knowledge on the real estate exam and complete the license application, you will need to get a formal professional appointment with a supervising broker. A real estate sales agent must work under a broker.

You can get this appointment before you are licensed, during the licensing process, or after you complete the first steps. But you will need to be affiliated with a broker before you are fully licensed to work as a real estate agent.

A real estate broker can work with clients to buy and sell real estate without supervision. They can also choose to lead a team or open their own business. Some states refer to the entry-level license as a Provisional Broker or Associate Broker. These license holders must also work under a broker, just like a sales agent.

Note: If you have a job offer or broker sponsor lined up before you begin your real estate license process, talk to them about covering part or all of the costs of your license. Some brokers may be willing to cover the costs of your pre-licensing education, application fees, or exam costs.

Step 6: Application Review and License

The final step to becoming a real estate agent requires that you wait for your state to process your application and issue your real estate sales agent license. Processing times vary by state, workload, and even time of year, but most take a few days to a few weeks. You will likely be given a review timeline when you submit your application.

One of the best ways that you can make sure this step runs smoothly is to review your application closely before you submit. Leaving parts blank or incomplete can result in your application being returned or even rejected. If your state’s real estate commission asks for additional information, be sure to respond promptly to keep your application review on track.

If your application is not approved, you may need to spend more time demonstrating your potential to work as a real estate agent by working successfully in another position. Submitting character references and having a strong resume can help you overcome any black marks on your record.

What Does a Real Estate Agent Do?

Beginning a career as a real estate agent is an exciting time. The great news is that your day-to-day job responsibilities will never get boring, as a real estate agent’s day includes a lot of unique tasks and is different everyday.

A Real Estate Agent’s Job

The core job description of a real estate agent is to help clients buy and sell real estate properties. In reality, the job entails a lot more: networking with potential clients, researching the real estate market and trends, marketing themselves and the homes for sale, generating new leads, and so much more.

There is no such thing as a typical day for a real estate agent, as they are often out and about in the community. Many agents find this flexibility is one of the best parts of their job and love the opportunity to be away from a traditional desk.

A few key terms you will find while becoming a real estate agent include:

• Real estate sales agent: The person usually interacting directly with clients. They must be licensed by their state and work under a broker supervisor.
• Real estate broker: This person can work with clients, lead a team or firm, or a combination of both. They must also be licensed with a special broker’s license and are able to work completely independently.
• Realtor®: This professional designation is given to real estate sales agents and brokers who are members of the National Association of Realtors®. 
• Brokerage: This is the firm or company that organizes and oversees the work of the agents and brokers. Brokers can choose to work for an established brokerage or start their own brokerage business.
• Real estate license: This professional license is issued at the state level. All real estate agents and brokers must have the appropriate real estate license.

A Real Estate Agent’s Day

The day-to-day work for a real estate agent usually includes working directly with clients, researching and analyzing properties currently on the market, and preparing documents such as purchase offers or contracts. Many of these tasks can be done on a laptop between appointments or showings.

Every day is different for a real estate agent. The following is just one example of how a real estate agent may spend their time.

If you have a special event or commitment during the day, you can often schedule your professional commitments around it. Your day will also vary depending on how aggressively you want to pursue new clients. Some real estate agents make lead generation and marketing a big part of their day, while others prefer to get new business through client referrals.

How Flexible is a Real Estate Career?

Real estate is great for those who want a part-time or flexible schedule. A part-time real estate career might include fewer showings, a smaller list of clients, or a more specialized niche. Part-time agents can choose to work the same hours each day, such as 8:00 am – 12:30 pm, or work full eight hour work days for two or three days each week.

Some real estate agents “take off” one or two days each week for personal pursuits or other jobs. Others structure their day around their children’s school or other commitments. Many real estate agents say that the flexibility of the day-to-day work is one of their favorite parts of the job.

A career in real estate is highly customizable to match the skills and goals of each real estate agent. Whether you are looking for a part-time job or want to make real estate your full-time income, you can find a workflow that works for you.

Become a Successful Real Estate Agent

Once you become a real estate agent and have mastered the day-to-day work, you will be ready to take your real estate career to the next level. You can grow your network, start your own business, or take on additional real estate work as you become a top real estate agent in your area.

Qualities of Successful Real Estate Agents

You can tailor your real estate career to use your strengths. There are a few qualities that many successful real estate agents have and develop.

• Detail-oriented: Real estate agents must be good with details, especially when it comes to writing contracts, marketing homes for sale, and working with clients to find a home to purchase. Real estate agents must also be able to do basic real estate math to analyze listing and purchase prices.
• Flexible: Opportunities and work often come at short notice for real estate agents. The best agents are able to quickly adjust their day or workload to take advantage of opportunities to meet with new clients, see new properties, or network.
• Prefer dynamic work: Because a real estate agent’s day is always changing and evolving, successful agents tend to like this kind of schedule. 
• Self-motivated: Your earning potential as a real estate agent is only limited by your own drive and goals. You can improve your skills as an agent to increase your income.

Should I Become a Realtor®?

After you become a fully licensed real estate agent, you can look into becoming a Realtor®. This professional designation is not a separate license but identifies you as a member of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). Joining the National Association of Realtors® offers many professional opportunities for real estate agents and brokers.

One of the main factors to determine if joining the NAR is the right path for you is what is expected or typical at your real estate firm. If most of your coworkers are Realtors®, chances are your sponsoring broker will encourage you to join as well. If the main principal members of the company are Realtors®, the company will need to pay a non-member fee for any agents that choose not to join. Most companies prefer to take advantage of the network and benefits.

You do not need a special license to become a Realtor®, but you will need to pay association dues and agree to the NAR’s code of ethics. While the dues can add up ($150 for the National Association, plus state and local association dues), the benefits of being a Realtor® usually outweigh these costs. See if your broker or company will cover your annual dues. Many do, because they are required to pay a non-member fee for those agents who choose not to join.

As a Realtor®, you will have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), professional education resources, and a broad network of other agents, brokers, and real estate professionals. You can also get discounts on things like insurance, marketing materials, and business products.

Real Estate Agent vs. Broker

Once you have some experience as a real estate agent, you may be ready to take on the responsibility of leading a team or working for yourself.

To become a real estate broker, you must take additional classes and verify your real estate experience. Each state sets their own requirements, but many require broker pre-licensing education and three to five years as an agent.

Real estate brokers are still able to work directly with clients and many do. Some brokers prefer to lead and manage a team of agents. Others go on to open their own brokerage firm. Getting your real estate broker’s license allows you to customize your career path.

Maximizing Your Real Estate Agent Income

As a licensed real estate agent, you can take on additional responsibilities to maximize your earning potential. One of the best parts about working as a real estate agent is the opportunity to set your own earning limits.

Property Management

Many real estate agents also manage rental properties for their clients. This often includes marketing homes for rent, finding tenants, arranging repairs and maintenance, and collecting rent.

Start a Team

If you choose to get your real estate broker’s license, you can lead a team of real estate agents. You can share your experience and expertise, as well as help newer agents network and establish their own careers. In exchange for your contributions, you will often get a small percentage of their commissions.

Become a Real Estate Entrepreneur

There are a variety of paths for entrepreneurs in the real estate industry. As a licensed real estate broker, you are able to start your own company or brokerage. This can be a big leap for even experienced real estate brokers, but is something to work toward during your career if you want to run your own business.

You may also decide to invest in real estate. This can mean owning residential rental properties or commercial real estate. As a licensed real estate agent, you will know the ins and outs of your community and be ready to make a purchase offer on a property that you feel is a good investment.