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What steps should I take towards becoming a realtor if I want to start as soon as I turn 18
I am currently 17 years old and I want to start as soon as I can.
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Robert’s Answer
Real estate can be slow when you start. At the very beginning, you may be waiting for a commission or a sale. This could take months so you need to have money in the bank or friends and family who can support you while you wait for things to ramp up. The economy can also be tricky. It good times, you may want to put something away for times like now when interest rates and high and sales slow.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Landen,
Embarking on a career as a realtor at 18 is an exciting journey that calls for thoughtful planning and particular steps to fulfill the needed criteria. While the pathway may slightly differ based on where you live, there are some general steps that can guide you towards your real estate career. Here are some steps you might want to think about:
1. Understand your local requirements: Every state or region has its own set of rules for real estate licensing. Start by digging into the specific requirements in your locality. Look for details on age limits, educational needs, and other qualifications to become a licensed realtor. Usually, your state's real estate commission or regulatory body's website is a good place to find this information.
2. Finish your pre-licensing education: Most states ask aspiring realtors to complete a certain number of pre-licensing education hours before taking the licensing exam. These courses delve into real estate principles, practices, contracts, and laws. Look for a trustworthy real estate school or program in your area that provides pre-licensing courses and sign up. Ensure the program is recognized by your state's real estate commission.
3. Get ready for the licensing exam: After wrapping up the required pre-licensing education, you'll need to clear a licensing exam to become a licensed realtor. The exam usually includes national and state-specific real estate laws and regulations. You can find study materials and practice exams online or through real estate schools. Set aside enough time to study and prepare for the exam to boost your chances of acing it on your first try.
4. Apply for a license: Once you've passed the licensing exam, you'll need to send in an application for a real estate license to your state's regulatory body or real estate commission. The application process typically involves showing proof of completing pre-licensing education, passing the exam, and paying the required fees. Some states may also ask for background checks or fingerprinting during the application process.
5. Find a brokerage to team up with: As a fresh licensed realtor, you'll need to join a real estate brokerage to practice real estate. Research different brokerages in your area and consider things like reputation, training programs, commission splits, and support for new agents. Reach out to potential brokerages and schedule interviews to find the best match for your career aspirations.
6. Join professional groups: Think about joining professional groups like the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or your local real estate association. These groups offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education programs that can help you flourish as a realtor. Plus, being a member of these organizations can boost your credibility and professionalism in the field.
7. Build your network and promote yourself: Real estate is all about relationships, so it's vital to start building your network early on. Attend industry events, join local community groups, and connect with other professionals in related fields like mortgage brokers or home inspectors. Use online platforms like social media and create a professional website to promote yourself and highlight your expertise.
8. Keep learning and growing: Real estate is a constantly changing industry, so it's crucial to stay updated on market trends, laws, and best practices. Make the most of continuing education courses offered by professional organizations or local real estate schools. This continuous learning will not only keep you ahead but also show your dedication to providing top-notch service to your clients.
Remember, the steps mentioned above are just general guidelines, and it's crucial to verify the specific requirements in your area before moving forward. Also, consider seeking advice from seasoned realtors or mentors who can share valuable insights and advice from their own experiences.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. National Association of Realtors (NAR) - www.nar.realtor
2. Real Estate Express - www.realestateexpress.com
3. State-specific real estate commission or regulatory body websites
Embarking on a career as a realtor at 18 is an exciting journey that calls for thoughtful planning and particular steps to fulfill the needed criteria. While the pathway may slightly differ based on where you live, there are some general steps that can guide you towards your real estate career. Here are some steps you might want to think about:
1. Understand your local requirements: Every state or region has its own set of rules for real estate licensing. Start by digging into the specific requirements in your locality. Look for details on age limits, educational needs, and other qualifications to become a licensed realtor. Usually, your state's real estate commission or regulatory body's website is a good place to find this information.
2. Finish your pre-licensing education: Most states ask aspiring realtors to complete a certain number of pre-licensing education hours before taking the licensing exam. These courses delve into real estate principles, practices, contracts, and laws. Look for a trustworthy real estate school or program in your area that provides pre-licensing courses and sign up. Ensure the program is recognized by your state's real estate commission.
3. Get ready for the licensing exam: After wrapping up the required pre-licensing education, you'll need to clear a licensing exam to become a licensed realtor. The exam usually includes national and state-specific real estate laws and regulations. You can find study materials and practice exams online or through real estate schools. Set aside enough time to study and prepare for the exam to boost your chances of acing it on your first try.
4. Apply for a license: Once you've passed the licensing exam, you'll need to send in an application for a real estate license to your state's regulatory body or real estate commission. The application process typically involves showing proof of completing pre-licensing education, passing the exam, and paying the required fees. Some states may also ask for background checks or fingerprinting during the application process.
5. Find a brokerage to team up with: As a fresh licensed realtor, you'll need to join a real estate brokerage to practice real estate. Research different brokerages in your area and consider things like reputation, training programs, commission splits, and support for new agents. Reach out to potential brokerages and schedule interviews to find the best match for your career aspirations.
6. Join professional groups: Think about joining professional groups like the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or your local real estate association. These groups offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education programs that can help you flourish as a realtor. Plus, being a member of these organizations can boost your credibility and professionalism in the field.
7. Build your network and promote yourself: Real estate is all about relationships, so it's vital to start building your network early on. Attend industry events, join local community groups, and connect with other professionals in related fields like mortgage brokers or home inspectors. Use online platforms like social media and create a professional website to promote yourself and highlight your expertise.
8. Keep learning and growing: Real estate is a constantly changing industry, so it's crucial to stay updated on market trends, laws, and best practices. Make the most of continuing education courses offered by professional organizations or local real estate schools. This continuous learning will not only keep you ahead but also show your dedication to providing top-notch service to your clients.
Remember, the steps mentioned above are just general guidelines, and it's crucial to verify the specific requirements in your area before moving forward. Also, consider seeking advice from seasoned realtors or mentors who can share valuable insights and advice from their own experiences.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. National Association of Realtors (NAR) - www.nar.realtor
2. Real Estate Express - www.realestateexpress.com
3. State-specific real estate commission or regulatory body websites