How to Become a Real Estate Agent in California

If you consider a career in real estate, California may be one of the most exciting places to start. San Diego, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Fresno have some of the best opportunities for anyone trying to get into the job. Earning a Californian real estate license isn’t always as simple as it may seem.

The Qualifications of a Californian Real Estate Agent

First, you have to be at least 18 years old. You also need to complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education at an approved school. You must pass the California salesperson licensing exam and submit your fingerprints.

The process of becoming a real estate agent in California is similar to other states. Follow these steps to kick start your journey.

Understand State Requirements

The first state is to understand Californian real estate laws and how they may affect you as a real estate agent. Learn about the pre-licensing requirements and the courses that you will need to take.

It would also be wise to understand how the Californian real estate market is different from other states.

Choose a Real Estate School

Do our research and establish the best accredited real estate school for you. Note that real estate schools aren’t all the same. You must invest some effort into finding the best ones.

Determine if you will be attending an online or in-class school, depending on your specific situation.

Complete Pre-Licensing Coursework

Complete your pre-licensing coursework in the school you choose. You have to complete the coursework before taking a licensing exam. California requires you to complete 135 hours of education. You need to complete a BRE-approved college-level course.

Do Your Pre-Licensing Exam

Apply for your license exam after completing the required education. The application process requires submitting an application form and paying the license fee. You will need to submit two fingerprints if you apply for the first time. Your application expires unless you pass the exam within two years of application.

Preparing For the California Real Estate Exam

Apply for the state real estate exam and start preparing for it. Consider using a CA real estate prep course to aid in your preparations. Research on where the exam will be held. Usually, it is administered in third-party centers.

Get essential information regarding parking, materials you may need to bring, and the operational hours. You must score at least 70 percent to pass the exam.

Pick a Sponsoring Broker

A Californian real estate broker must sponsor you before you start your career. Choosing the right broker is very important, so you must take your time with it. Here are a few questions to keep in mind when picking a broker:

• What benefits do they offer?
• Do they have an excellent local and national reputation?
• Are their systems up to date with modern systems? How technologically advanced are they?
• What types of agents do they work with?
• Do they have room for growth?
• What type of commission structure is available

Finish Your Licensing Application

After passing the exam, you need to file a License Combo Application. You will then receive a Salesperson License Application (RE 202). The form needs to be completed and sent back with the relevant fee within a year of passing your exam. You won’t receive your license until DRE gets your fingerprint response information.

Complete the Post-Licensing Coursework

Consider completing your post-licensing coursework within six months of getting your license. You can launch your career right after.

Being a real estate agent in California takes time and effort. In addition to completing 135 hours of education, you have to pass several exams. There are many approved schools, and you can easily find a good one.

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