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FAQs

Your Real Estate Career Begins Here

Common Question

Most Popular Questions

What Are The Florida Real Estate Sales Associate License Requirements?

To qualify for a Florida sales associate license, the applicant must

  • have a Social Security number
  • receive approval of the license application
  • pay all required fees
  • meet all general licensure provisions including age, education, character, competency, submission of associated background history and fingerprints, as discussed in a previous section.

Prelicense Course:
Applicants for a sales associate license must complete 63 classroom hours of an FREC-approved pre-license course, referred to as Course I, to be taken at an accredited college, career center, or registered real estate school. The course includes the fundamentals of real estate principles and practices, real estate law and license law, and associated mathematics. The required hours consist of 60 hours of instruction, either in the classroom or through distance learning, and three hours allowed for the end-of-course examination.

State License Examination:
After completing the prelicense coursework and passing the end-of-course examination, an applicant has 2 years to take and pass the state licensure examination. If the applicant waits longer than the 2 years, he or she must retake the prelicense course to be eligible to take the licensure examination.

Applicants must schedule the exam directly with the testing vendor and pay the exam fee at that time. Prior to taking the exam, the applicant must present the prelicense course completion certificate and two forms of identification, one of which is to be government-issued and include a photo.

The examination is given on a computer-based system that allows students to answer questions or skip questions and go back to them later. It also provides a summary of how many questions have been answered, how many were skipped, and how much time is remaining on the test. The exam is available in English and in Spanish. Non-electronic foreign language translation dictionaries are allowed in the exam room but must be approved by the test administrator. No other reference materials are allowed in the examination room during the test. 

The state examination includes 100 multiple-choice questions and may include pilot questions that are not included in the final test score. The applicant must pass the test with a score of 75% or higher. If the applicant is a Florida nonresident from a Mutual Recognition State, he or she must take the designated Laws and Rules 40-question examination and pass with a score of 30 out of 40 points (75%).

Both the school final exam and the state exam are the same basic format, with 45% of the questions based on Florida Real Estate Law, 45% of the questions on Real Estate Principles and Practices, and 10% of the questions based on real estate math.

If an applicant fails the examination, he or she will be given a photo-bearing exam report that will provide them with their score on the exam and a breakdown of what they missed.  The report will also provide instructions on reviewing what they missed on their examination.

The request to review the exam must be made within 21 days of taking the exam and may be performed only for the applicant’s most recent exam. The applicant must pay a fee for the review and is given half of the exam administration time for the review.   The applicant may not take notes during the review.

The applicant may challenge any incorrect answers and have the question reviewed by a Florida Administrative Law judge

Whether or not the applicant challenges the results of the failed exam, he or she may pay a fee and retake the exam as many times as necessary within 2 years. There is no waiting period to retake the examination.

License issuance. An applicant who passes the examination will be given a photo-bearing exam report indicating the applicant passed the examination. The applicant’s score will be provided to the DBPR, who will issue a sales associate license number and provide instructions for printing the license.

The license is issued in an inactive status. To activate the license, the sales associate must establish an association with a broker and then either activate his or her own license by printing the DBPR RE 11 Sales Associate or Broker Sales Associate – Become Active form and having the broker sign it or by having the broker add the sales associate to the broker’s online account.

The sales associate must be licensed, associated with a broker or owner/developer, and activated prior to performing any real estate services which require a license.

Who is Exempt From The 63 Hour Real Estate Sales Associate FREC 1 Course?
  • An active attorney in good standing with the Florida Bar who is qualified under real estate license law may obtain a real estate sales associate license without completing pre-license education courses. However, attorneys must pass the licensure examination.
  • Anyone who has earned a 4-year degree or higher in real estate from a school of higher education may obtain a real estate license without completing pre-license education courses. However, individuals with this degree must pass the licensure examination.
  • A nonresident licensed in a state that has a mutual recognition agreement with Florida may obtain a real estate license without completing pre-license education courses. However, these nonresidents must pass a 40-question licensure examination.
How long is Real Estate School in Florida?

The Florida State approved FREC 1 course for pre-licensure is only 63 hours

It consists of 60 hours of Curriculum and 3 hours for the end of course exam.  This course can be taken in person at any accredited provider’s facility in as little as 7 days, Monday through Sunday from 9:00am – 6:00pm. 

The FREC 1 course can also be taken online at your own pace.  So ultimately it is up to you on how long it takes.

How much does it cost to get your Real Estate License in Florida?

It ranges between $290.00 – $890.00

  • The Department of Business and Professional Regulation Application Fee is $83.75
  • Fingerprints typically cost $70.00 and can be done digitally at any Livescan Provider
  • Real Estate Schools can range anywhere from $99.00 – $700.00 depending on whether it’s an online course or an in person course. 
  • The State Exam provided by PearsonVue is $35.00
Can I take Real Estate Classes Online?

Absolutely! There are several options available for taking an online Real Estate class in Florida. The State of Florida only requires students to have 63 hours of online learning and that you pass the end of class test with an 80% or higher to be eligible to take the State of Florida Real Estate Exam.

Just keep in mind that there are less expensive courses online that may require you to buy their books at inflated prices.  Some courses are bare bones meaning that they only provide you with reading material and very little “teaching”.  These courses are a great value if you have prior Real Estate experience and understand Real Estate terminology.

Then you have the more comprehensive Online Courses that have created a more intuitive and interactive learning experience that gives you access to Instructors for more one-on-one attention.

What is the Fastest way to make money in Real Estate?
  • Get a Real Estate License
  • Start Building Your Business
  • Find Buyers and Sellers
  • Find Renters
  • Property Management
  • Wholesaling / Flipping Contracts
  • Buy Your Own Investment Property
How do I become a Realtor?

 

By Joining the National Association of Realtors is the Correct answer!

However, That’s kind of a misconception or misuse of the term “REALTOR”, A Realtor is a Licensed Real Estate Sales Associate, Broker Associate or Broker that belongs to the National Association of Realtors, commonly known as NAR. 

If your question was intended to ask, “How do I become a Real Estate Sales Associate”, Then the answer is as follows:

  • You must submit an application and your fingerprints to the Department of Business and professional regulation also known as the DBPR.
  • Complete a 63 Hour Pre-Licensure Course approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission, commonly referred to as FREC and pass the course test with a minimum score of 80%.
  • Pass the State Exam with a score of at least 75%. 
  • Activate your license by finding a Broker

Now, you are able to join your local Real Estate Association and then you can Join the National Association of Realtors to become a REALTOR!

 

How old do I have to be to become a Realtor?

The State of Florida requires you to be 18 years old

How much does a Realtor make?

According to various sources such as indeed, ziprecruiter, The National Association of Realtors and surveys, the average Realtor in Florida makes approximately $80,000.00 a year.  Real Estate Agents with a couple years of experience can easily make 6 figures a year.

Can I get a Real Estate License if I have a criminal record?

Yes, applicants may not be denied licensure based on conviction of a crime that occurred five or more years prior to submission of the application unless the crime was related to the practice of real estate or related to the absence of good moral character.

In some situations, Applicants with cases that have been less than five years or are questionable in nature, could be given the opportunity to go in front of the Florida real estate Commission to give an explanation of the circumstances to have their application consideration for approval.

If the application is denied, the Applicant can choose to request a hearing on the denial by filing a petition with the Division of Real Estate, commonly referred to as the DRE, within 21 days of receiving the denial notice

Do I have to be a Florida resident to become a Real Estate Agent in Florida?

No, The state of Florida does not require you to be a Florida resident to apply for and obtain a Florida Real Estate License.

Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to get a real estate license in Florida?

No, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen to get a real estate license in Florida, however applicants must have a Social Security number. A Social Security number or equivalent is not required for tax purposes but to ensure that the applicant is not behind on spousal or child support.

How long does it take to get a real estate license in Florida?

From start to finish approximately 60 days, depending on your particular situation. 

  • The Department of Business and Professional regulation, Commonly known as the DBPR, has 90 days to approve or deny an application. However, they usually approve or deny an application within 45 days.
  • The approved FREC 1 Course is 63 hours. This course is offered at many classroom schools and can be done in 7 days.  Online classes are also available and can be completed in less than 7 days if you’re really committed and focused.
  • Once your application is approved by the State of Florida and you have successfully passed the course test, you can schedule to take the State Exam the next day.  Upon passing the state exam it usually takes a couple days for the State to issue your Real Estate Sales Associate license. All that’s left is finding a Broker or Real Estate Company to work for.
Can you get rich as a realtor?

It is possible to become wealthy as a realtor, but it is not guaranteed. Becoming wealthy as a real estate agent or broker typically requires a combination of hard work, dedication, experience, and expertise. It also depends on the state of the local real estate market, as well as the realtor’s ability to effectively market themselves and their services. Additionally, real estate agents and brokers typically earn their income through commission, so their income can vary depending on the number and price of the properties they sell. So, while it is possible for realtors to become wealthy, it is not a given and depends on a variety of factors.

Why is real estate a good career?

There are several reasons why real estate can be a good career choice. First, the real estate market is relatively stable, even during economic downturns, so there is usually a demand for real estate professionals. Second, a career in real estate can be financially rewarding. Real estate agents and brokers earn commission on the properties they sell, which can be a significant income stream. Additionally, as a real estate professional, you have the opportunity to work for yourself, setting your own schedule and working as much or as little as you want. Finally, a career in real estate can be personally fulfilling. As a real estate professional, you have the opportunity to help people find their dream homes and make important investment decisions.

How to make money in real estate?

There are several ways to make money in real estate. One of the most common ways is to become a real estate agent or broker and earn commission on the properties you sell. Another way is to buy properties and rent them out, earning income from the rent payments. You can also invest in real estate by purchasing property and flipping it for a profit, or by investing in real estate investment trusts (REITs) or other investment vehicles that allow you to invest in real estate without directly buying and managing properties. Additionally, some people make money in real estate by providing services to other real estate professionals, such as property management or home staging.

Is it easy to become a real estate agent?

Becoming a real estate agent is not necessarily easy, but it is achievable with the right education, training, and dedication. To become a real estate agent, you typically need to complete a real estate licensing program, which usually involves taking a certain number of courses and passing an exam. After completing the licensing program and passing the exam, you must apply for a license with the state in which you plan to practice. Once you have a license, you can start working as a real estate agent. However, becoming successful in the field typically requires a lot of hard work, persistence, and networking. You will need to build a strong knowledge of the real estate market, develop effective sales and marketing skills, and establish a network of clients and potential clients. So, while becoming a real estate agent is not necessarily easy, it can be a rewarding career for those who are willing to put in the effort.

What are 7 reasons why real estate is a good career?
Here are seven reasons why a career in real estate can be a good choice:

  • The real estate market is relatively stable, even during economic downturns, so there is usually a demand for real estate professionals.
  • A career in real estate can be financially rewarding. Real estate agents and brokers earn commission on the properties they sell, which can be a significant income stream.
  • As a real estate professional, you have the opportunity to work for yourself, setting your own schedule and working as much or as little as you want.
  • A career in real estate can be personally fulfilling. As a real estate professional, you have the opportunity to help people find their dream homes and make important investment decisions.
  • The real estate industry offers a wide range of career paths, from residential sales to commercial leasing to property management.
  • The real estate industry is constantly evolving, so there is always the opportunity to learn new skills and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies.
  • The real estate industry is a social and collaborative field, so you have the opportunity to network and build relationships with other professionals.
Why are realtors rich?

Realtors are not necessarily rich. While some real estate agents and brokers are able to earn a high income, many others struggle to make ends meet. The amount of money a realtor makes depends on many factors, such as the state of the local real estate market, the realtor’s level of experience and expertise, and the realtor’s ability to successfully market themselves and their services. Additionally, real estate agents and brokers typically earn their income through commission, so their income can vary depending on the number and price of the properties they sell. So, while it is possible for realtors to be rich, it is not guaranteed and depends on a variety of factors.

Why should I buy a home now?

There are several reasons why you may want to consider buying a home now. First, the current interest rates for mortgages are still relatively low, which can make purchasing a home more affordable. Second, the real estate market is generally stable, so buying a home now can be a good investment for the long term. Third, owning a home can provide you with a sense of stability and independence, as well as the potential for building equity over time. Finally, buying a home now can allow you to take advantage of any current market conditions, such as low prices or a high demand for homes in your area. Of course, whether or not buying a home is a good decision for you will depend on your individual circumstances and financial goals. It is important to carefully consider all the factors involved and consult with a financial advisor if necessary before making a decision.

Is an online real estate class better than one in a classroom?

Whether an online real estate class is better than a classroom-based class depends on the individual student’s learning style and needs. Some people may find online classes more convenient and flexible, as they can be taken from anywhere and at any time. Online classes may also be more accessible for students with busy schedules or those who live in remote areas. Additionally, online classes can offer a wider range of course materials and resources, as well as the ability to connect with other students and instructors from around the world. On the other hand, some people may prefer the structure and social interaction of a traditional classroom setting. Classroom-based classes can provide the opportunity to ask questions and receive immediate feedback from instructors, as well as the chance to work on projects and assignments with other students. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your individual learning style and goals.

Why do I procrastinate?

There are many reasons why people may procrastinate. Some common reasons include a lack of motivation or interest in the task at hand, fear of failure or success, a lack of clarity or direction, or a tendency to become overwhelmed by large or complex tasks. Procrastination can also be caused by external factors, such as distractions, a lack of time or resources, or competing priorities. Additionally, some people may procrastinate as a coping mechanism to avoid difficult or uncomfortable emotions or situations. Identifying the specific reasons why you procrastinate can help you to overcome it and develop more effective strategies for managing your time and tasks.

Is a career in Real Estate Fun?

While some people may find a career in real estate to be fun and rewarding, others may not. Whether a job is “fun” or not is a matter of personal preference and depends on the individual’s interests, values, and goals. That being said, there are several aspects of a career in real estate that may make it enjoyable for some people. For example, a career in real estate can be exciting and dynamic, as the real estate market is constantly changing and presenting new challenges and opportunities. It can also be rewarding to help people achieve their goals, such as finding their dream home or making a successful investment. Additionally, a career in real estate offers the flexibility and independence of working for oneself, which can be appealing to some people. Ultimately, whether or not a career in real estate is “fun” will depend on the individual.