If you've been successful in sales or another area, are enthusiastic, motivated, and committed to the idea of selling real estate, and have good people skills, this might be the right choice for you. However, it's not something you can jump right into. You need the right schooling, and some experience before you can begin selling homes and properties.
To be a real estate agent, you'll also need to be licensed. The requirements for licensing vary from state to state, so you'll have to check with the department of real estate or real estate commission in your state to find out what you need. However, there are a few things that are universal. In every state, you must be over eighteen, have a GED or high school diploma, be licensed, and take a written exam.
In most cases, you'll have to take some classes before the exam can be administered and you can be licensed. You can get a list of locations where courses are available from the state real estate commission. You may also need to submit a background check, and there's probably a minimum score for the exam in order to be licensed. After passing the licensing exam, you may have a limited period of time to register with an agency or brokerage.
If you want to learn about the real estate world to find out if it's for you, talking to someone who's already working as an agent can be a real help. They can tell you where to register for classes and take the exam, what the work is like, how commissions are split and how often you'll be paid, and what you'll be responsible for if you decide to go into this line of work. Great options for this interview include talking to friends and relatives in the business and visiting local brokerages. Don't be afraid to make use of existing contacts!
If you've decided that becoming a real estate agent is the course of action you want to take, the next step is picking a school. You can find courses in many different locations, and every state has requirements about the number of hours of schooling you must take. Check this information before you register. Courses are taught at many community colleges and junior colleges, but be sure to compare schools before you choose.
Some schools offer better course, better schedules, and have a higher rate of completion. Find out how much will these courses cost, and what is the school's exam completion rate. It's important to know whether or not students from the school pass their examination and go on to become successful real estate agents.
It's also possible to take real estate courses online, but there are some things you need to do if this is your preferred method. First, make sure that your state department of real estate will accept online credits, and only attend courses that will be accepted to you. Compare schools and make sure that you're getting customer service and teaching that are up to the right standards. Some online colleges are just scams, so you need to know that you're getting what you're paying for. Check out the school's reputation if you're not sure.
Once you've finished schooling, it's time for the exam. Find out where you're going to be taking it at least the day before, so you know how to get there. Study, but don't stress yourself out, since this can be worse - many students prefer not to cram the night before. Make sure you take all the supplies with you that you'll need for exam day, and remember to get enough sleep!
You'll need your photo id and an official test notice to take the exam and you may also need a calculator. Subjects for the exam will vary by state, but most will involve questions on real estate law, financing, taxes, contracts and property sizes. There will also be questions about specifics in your state. The length of time you're given for the test also varies by state.
Once you pass, it's time to start looking for a brokerage which you can notify of your passing, and which will hire you. Like everything else, you'll need to compare agencies. Commission, benefits, and sales records will all vary from agency to agency. Once you've chosen a real estate broker, you'll need to get in contact with the real estate commission to get your license and have it activated. Then you can get started on your new career! Real estate is a fast growing profession and is a great choice for anyone who wants to make homebuyers happy.
