Navigating the real estate market to find the perfect home for your family can be painstaking, which is why potential homeowners consult real estate agents. Real estate agents are experts in the market and are knowledgeable on things like available properties, current interest rates, and the general process of buying or selling a home.
Aside from advising you on market factors to consider, an agent can also save you a lot of trouble in the long run, as they are aware of the different issues that can arise along the way. That said, if helping people navigate the property market is something you’d enjoy doing, becoming a real estate agent might actually be a gratifying career for you.
It provides maximum flexibility, by allowing you to set your own schedule, work from home, and lead generate on your own time. More importantly, the income potential is unlimited. Now that you know the responsibilities and benefits of becoming a real estate agent, you need to be aware of the process of getting your real estate license in the state of Florida.
Keep reading to learn more.
An Overview of Online Real Estate Classes
A few years ago, you had to attend real estate classes in person, after which you had to sit for a test to acquire your real estate license. As you can imagine, this was challenging for those with a 9-5 job and families.
Luckily, today, you can pursue your pre-license education entirely online. That means you don’t even have to leave your home to complete classes. You can get through all the required classes remotely from an internet-connected device like your personal computer.
How Do These Classes Work?
The process of pursuing your license online is pretty straightforward. There’s only four main steps to follow if you live in Florida:
1. Complete the Pre-license Course
Start by completing the required classroom hours as required by the state. In Florida, this would be 63 hours. The course is typically broken down into individual video classes. These may be accompanied by practice quizzes and other class resources. Now, how fast you complete the course will depend on your individual pace.
At the end of the classes, you will need to pass the course final exam before moving on to the Florida state exam.
2. Background Check
Once you are done with the pre-license course, you will need to submit your fingerprints for a background check. Checking your criminal background is a prerequisite to getting your license and cannot be falsified or passed over.
3. Submit an Application for Your License
After completing the pre-license course, you can officially submit a real estate agent application to the DBPR. You must be 18 years or older and have a high school diploma to submit an application.
4. Take The Florida State Exam
The final step is to sit your licensing examination either at an approved PearsonVue center or at home. If you pass your exams, you will receive your license and can advise on and sell properties within your jurisdiction.
Benefits of Online Real Estate Classes
Traditional in-person classes have been the norm for decades. However, online classes have taken the industry by storm, with many aspiring agents choosing this route.
So, why should I look for real estate classes near me? If you’re not sure online classes are for you, here is a look at some benefits you actually stand to gain:
- Gives You Greater Flexibility: The biggest advantage of taking your pre-license courses online is the flexibility you will enjoy. Unlike traditional classroom setups where you must adhere to a schedule, you can pick your time and place.
- Can Finish The Course in Less Time: Online learning eliminates the commute and travel time that comes with traditional classes. This can help you complete the course a lot faster and start earning money.
- Allows You to Choose a Productive Environment: You have few options, if any, when it comes to the learning environment in a brick-and-mortar classroom setting. And this can interfere with how well you grasp the content. However, with online classes, you can choose a learning space that works for you.
- You Can Learn at Your Own Pace: Learn as quickly or slowly as you want. You don’t have to move at anyone else’s pace but your own.
- Less Overall Costs: By pursuing the course online, you can save a lot on not just the direct expenses, that is, the fee, but also indirectly, for example, commuting costs.
What Should I Look for In Real Estate Classes Near Me?
The first step to preparing for your real estate license is finding an online course provider. The right school should meet a few requirements. These are:
Minimum Approved Course Hours
As you already know, taking a pre-license course is mandatory to be certified as a real estate agent in Florida or anywhere else in the country. In Florida, you need 63 hours of pre-approved courses. So, you want to ensure the school you choose offers this.
Certification by the State
Two, the school should be approved to offer the real estate course. So, you want to be sure that the provider is actually certified by the relevant state body.
Exam Preparation
Aside from mastering the course material, you must adequately prepare for the exam questions to give yourself the best chance. So, if the school you intend to go with provides exam prep, it’s definitely an added benefit.
Customer Reviews
Last but still vital are the reviews. What do other people who have been through the school think about it? It goes without saying that good reviews from various clients are a great sign that you will get what is promised.
Become a Real Estate Agent Conveniently and Affordably with Online Classes
Are you thinking about pursuing a career in real estate? Real estate is one of the most lucrative fields there is. However, you need the right skills and a license to succeed and make money. So, start your journey by signing up for online real estate classes today.
