Are you considering a career in real estate? Earning your real estate license is the first step toward an exciting and rewarding profession. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring you know what to expect and how to succeed.

1. Research Your State’s Requirements

Real estate licensing requirements vary by state. Start by visiting your state’s real estate commission website to find details such as:

Minimum age and education requirements.
Required pre-licensing education hours.
Application fees and processes.
Background check requirements

State of Illinois Requirements

2. Complete Pre-Licensing Education

Enroll in a state-approved real estate pre-licensing course. These courses can often be completed online or in-person and cover topics like:

Real estate principles and practices.
State-specific laws and regulations.
Contracts and financing basics.

Make sure to choose a reputable school with high pass rates for the licensing exam.

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3. Submit Your License Application

After completing your pre-licensing education, submit your application to your state’s real estate commission. You may need to:

Provide proof of course completion.
Pay application and background check fees.
Undergo fingerprinting and a criminal background check.

4. Prepare for the Licensing Exam

The licensing exam tests your knowledge of both national and state-specific real estate laws and practices. To prepare:

Review course materials and take practice exams.
Use online resources or exam prep books.
Consider enrolling in a test prep course if needed.

5. Pass the Real Estate Exam

The exam typically consists of two sections:

National Portion: Covers general real estate principles.
State-Specific Portion: Focuses on your state’s laws and regulations.

Achieve the required passing score, which varies by state. If you don’t pass on your first try, you’ll likely have the option to retake the test after a waiting period.

6. Choose a Sponsoring Broker

Most states require new real estate agents to work under a licensed broker. Research brokers in your area and consider factors such as:

Reputation and training programs.
Commission structures and fees.
Mentorship opportunities and office culture.

Choosing a boutique-style brokerage like Trautman Agency here in Champaign, Illinois, offers a wide range of benefits. Boutique brokerages often provide personalized mentorship, a close-knit team environment, and tailored support to help you grow your career effectively.

JOIN OUR TEAM!

7. Activate Your Real Estate License

Once you’ve passed the exam and selected a sponsoring broker, you can activate your license. This step may involve paying a license activation fee and submitting additional paperwork.

8. Join a Local Real Estate Association

Joining an association, such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR), gives you access to valuable resources and tools, including:

Multiple Listing Service (MLS) access.
Professional development and networking opportunities.
Industry updates and support.

9. Start Building Your Career

With your license activated, you’re ready to launch your real estate career. Start by:

Marketing yourself and building a client base.
Networking with other professionals in the industry.
Continuing your education to stay current on industry trends.

Final Thoughts Getting your real estate license is a significant achievement and the gateway to a dynamic career. By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the process and set yourself up for success. If you’re ready to start your journey, there’s no better time than now!

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Real Estate License