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Florida is among the rapidly growing states when it comes to the real estate landscape. Many people find real estate to be a rewarding career in Florida that offers one of the best opportunities for growth and earning potential in the industry. You too can join the industry as a salesperson, agent, or broker, but first, you need to know all the requirements and fulfill them.
Before you can start working as a licensed agent, you first need to obtain a real estate license in Florida. The process is not that complicated, you just have to follow certain steps, which we are going to discuss below.
Ensure Eligibility
Ensure Eligibility
If you are wondering how to get a real estate license in Florida, then it is good to know that one of the requirements is to be eligible. This includes being at least 18 years old, being a US citizen or legal resident, having a high school diploma or GED, and also having a clean criminal record.
If you meet all of the above requirements, you are ready to apply for your Florida real estate license course. Completing this course will take up most of the time involved in preparing for your new career, which is why it is smart to be ready for it.
Complete the Pre-Licensing Education
After meeting the real estate license Florida requirements, your next step is to complete a pre-licensing education. You are required to complete 63 hours of state-approval coursework. The good thing is that you can plan your learning schedule as long as you finish the course within the maximum time frame set by the course provider.
You can take your course online from various institutions such as RealEstateU that offer quality education remotely. However, you need to ensure that the course provider is certified by the state of Florida and other bodies such as CDEI.
Here are some tips to consider to succeed in your Florida pre-licensing education.
- Enroll early enough in a certified real estate school, preferably one that offers online education.
- Assess all the course topics and ensure they match all the approved topics.
- Plan your classes well to make certain you complete the course on time.
- Make plans to join real estate communities and forums organized by the school for networking.
Pass the Pre-Licensing Course Exam
You need to pass your school's pre-licensing exam before you can apply for a Florida real estate license. Your knowledge from the 63-hour course is put to the test in this exam. When you are ready, you may then take the test to conclude your pre-licensing course.
Schedule and Take Your State Exam
When you are ready for the Florida real estate license exam, you can go ahead and schedule your exam with Pearson VUE. This is the organization that is tasked by the state with conducting the test in the fairest way.
There are 100 multiple-choice questions covering both national and state subjects in the test. However, there are other subject areas related to the state of the real estate industry in Florida and the entire US that are tested. A 75% score is required to pass; therefore, prepare thoroughly before the test.
These tips will prove helpful in passing the Florida real estate license exam.
- Start studying for the exam as soon as you begin your online course.
- Use reliable state exam preparation guides and materials.
- Only book the exam when you feel that you are ready.
- Research the state of real estate in Florida and the entire country to get ready.
- Hire a tutor, if need be, to increase your chances of passing the exam
One thing to remember is that you must pass to proceed to the next step. The good thing is that you can repeat the exam until you pass, but there is a catch. You must pay an exam fee each time you repeat the exam.
Submit Fingerprints and a Background Check
The next step in how to get my real estate license in Florida is to submit fingerprints and a background check. You can do this through a live scan or at an approved vendor's shop. Check with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) if you have a criminal history.
The aim is to ensure that only people with integrity apply for the license. The state wants to protect and regulate real estate transactions to prevent illegal activity.
Submit Your Application for a Florida Real Estate License
Once you have completed and passed your Florida real estate license exam, the next step is to submit your application. Send in your application to the DBPR including your criminal background check, education information, and personal information.
You can also use the appropriate government portal to submit the application and upload the relevant documents.
Activate Your Florida Real Estate License
To activate your Florida real estate license, you must find a sponsoring broker after passing the state exam and background check. This broker will not only vouch for you in activating the license but will also be your mentor to help you get started with your career.
Choose a broker who shares your objectives, and they will assist you in completing the last stages of your career preparation. Notably, some people prefer to find a sponsoring broker early in their preparations, which is a great idea to give you ample time to learn more about real estate in Florida.
Complete the Post-Licensing Education
Within 18 to 24 months of receiving your Florida real estate license, you have to finish 45 hours of post-licensing education.
You will remain in compliance with Florida's licensure standards and enhance your real estate expertise by taking this course.
You must renew your license with the DBPR and complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain your Florida real estate license. Before your license expires, you can take the courses in person or online.
Conclusion
Now that you are aware of the Florida real estate licensing steps, you are ready to start your career and become a qualified real estate professional. This article provides a guide that will set you on the path to success. We hope it will make your journey easy. All the best.