Obtaining a Real Estate License

There's something about a career in real estate that calls to many people, especially those considering a career change. Real estate is a good option for anyone thinking about shifting careers because a license can be obtained relatively quickly and easily, and without any major financial investment. When one compares this to pursuing a full college degree, a career in real estate seems like a much easier option.

A new career in real estate awaits! © buchachon ' Fotolia.com

In general, it is not all that hard to get a real estate license. There is some coursework to complete, and a state licensing exam to pass. You may also need to make some connections within the real estate community. Read through the following steps to see just how easy it can be to become a licensed real estate agent.

Education

Before setting off down the path toward a career in real estate, you will need to first enroll in an educational course. These classes can be taken in person, at a local college or real estate office, or they can be taken online. The amount of coursework you need to take depends on the licensing requirements of your state. Before getting started, do some research into your state's requirements to make sure the course you attend is sufficient to qualify you for the license.

There are a few advantages in choosing to take a course in person. For one, the learning environment will be more personal, and you can learn more from the questions of others in the class. Also, you can talk directly to your teacher. Along the way, you may find yourself making some useful connections with those already in the real estate business. Those connections can help down the road when it comes to looking for a job.

On the downside though, attending classes can be problematic because the schedule can be fairly rigid ' you will be required to attend at the same time each and every week. Some may appreciate this more traditional learning environment, but others may have trouble getting their classes to fit into their already busy schedules.

If you opt for online classes, there will be no trouble on the scheduling front. You can do the work whenever you want, from wherever you want. That freedom is appealing to a lot of people, and works great for those that have full-time jobs already. Also, if you are in a hurry to obtain your license, online classes allow you to proceed at your own pace. If you are willing to work hard, the education requirement can be fulfilled in a matter of weeks.

Exam

After completing your coursework, you can fill out an application to take the state real estate licensing exam. The exam will test your knowledge of real estate rules and laws, and your classes should have provided you with all the information you will need. By being committed to your coursework and putting in the appropriate hours studying, the exam should not be a big hurdle towards getting your license.

Obtaining a real estate license doesn't have to be difficult © iQoncept ' Fotolia.com

One aspect of passing the exam that applies in some states is being sponsored by a currently licensed agent. If this is a requirement in your state, it might be smart to take your courses in person so you will have the opportunity to network with local agents who could sponsor you for the exam.

Overall, the process of getting a real estate license is not hard. The keys to success in this pursuit are good old preparation and hard work. None of the individual steps are particularly challenging as long as you remain focused on the goal. The bottom line is that if you are motivated to become a real estate agent, the licensing process will not stand in your way.

 

About the Author: Shannon Durr is a former real estate professional with over 13 years of experience.  She current writes at charlesbarnes.com as well as other sites.  She has taught many real estate classes and is committed to offering sound, real life advice. When she is not writing, she loves to be outdoors and travel with her husband and 3 beautiful girls.  Follow her on twitter @ShannonDurr1