How to Get a Florida Real Estate License
Dreaming of a rewarding career in the Sunshine State’s dynamic real estate market? A Florida real estate license could be your key to unlocking the door.
This blog will guide you through everything you need to know, including the requirements, steps to licensure, and tips for success!
Why Get a Florida Real Estate License?
- Flexibility and independence: Be your own boss, set your hours, and have the freedom to choose how you work.
- Unlimited income potential: The more effort you put in, the higher your earning potential.
- Help people achieve their dreams: There’s immense satisfaction in guiding clients through one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.
- Dynamic and exciting market: Florida’s real estate scene is constantly evolving, offering new challenges and opportunities.
Requirements for Obtaining a Florida Real Estate Sales Associate License
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
- Residency: You don’t need to be a Florida resident to get a license.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Background check: Must have a clean background check with fingerprinting.
- United States Social Security number: This is mandatory.
The Steps to Getting Your License
1. Complete the Pre-Licensing Course
- 63-hour course requirement: The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) mandates a 63-hour pre-license course that covers essential real estate principles, laws, and practices.
- Approved providers: Choose from a variety of in-person or online courses offered by FREC-approved providers.
2. Pass the Course Final Exam
- Minimum passing score: Achieve a score of 70% or higher on the course final exam to proceed to the state licensure exam.
3. Submit Fingerprints and Background Check
- Electronic fingerprinting: Completing an electronic background check is mandatory.
4. Apply for Licensure
- Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR): Submit your license application through the DBPR website or by mail.
- Application fee: Pay the required application fee.
5. Take and Pass the Florida Real Estate Exam
- Pearson VUE: Schedule and take the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Exam through Pearson VUE.
- Minimum passing score: You need a score of 75% or higher to pass.
6. Activate Your License
- Employing broker: To activate your license, you must find a sponsoring Florida real estate broker.
- Post-licensing requirement: Before your initial license expires, complete a 45-hour post-licensing course.
Real Estate Broker vs. Sales Associate
In Florida, there are two levels of real estate licenses:
- Sales Associate: Work under the supervision of a licensed broker.
- Broker: Can work independently and manage their own brokerage firm. Brokers have additional education and experience requirements.
Costs of Getting Your Florida Real Estate License
Here’s a general breakdown of the costs involved:
- Pre-licensing course: $200 – $400
- Fingerprinting and background check: Around $50
- Application fee: Approximately $80
- State exam fee: Approximately $100
Tips for Success
- Choose a reputable real estate school: Do your research to find an accredited school with good reviews.
- Dedicate time to studying: Consistent study habits are essential.
- Find a supportive mentor: A mentor can offer invaluable guidance.
- Network, network, network!: The real estate industry relies heavily on relationships.
- Be passionate! Your enthusiasm will be contagious to clients
Additional Resources
- Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC): Provides comprehensive information about licensing, rules, regulations, and more.
- Florida Realtors: The state’s professional association for real estate agents, offering resources, education, and networking events.
- National Association of Realtors (NAR): National organization with extensive resources and educational opportunities.
Start Your Florida Real Estate Journey Today!
If you’re ready to embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career in the Florida real estate market, take the first step today!
The process of getting your license is straightforward, and the support from the resources above will help you along the way.
With hard work and dedication, you’ll soon be closing deals and helping people realize their real estate dreams in the sunshine state!
