Real estate attracts many hard-working and passionate professionals to the industry–and for good reason. A low barrier to entry, unlimited earning potential, and the ability to set your own schedule are just a few perks of working in real estate. Moreover, Florida’s real estate market is one of the top markets in the country, making it a perfect location for those looking to establish their real estate careers.
If you’re in the Tampa area, you may wonder if it is worth becoming a real estate agent in Tampa and, if so, how to get your Florida real estate license. This article answers those two questions and outlines how to build a thriving career in the Tampa real estate market.
Key Takeaways
- Tampa Market Shows Mixed Signals: Home prices are down year over year, but sales are rising, and new construction activity suggests improving inventory conditions.
- Earning Potential Remains Strong: A majority of full-time Florida agents report $100K–$200K annual earnings, and improving sales trends make now a solid time to pursue licensing in Tampa.
- Meet Simple Prerequisites First: You only need to be 18+, have a Social Security number, and hold a high school diploma or GED to start the licensing process.
- Follow The Four Licensing Steps: Complete the 63-hour pre-licensing course, submit fingerprints, apply through the state, and pass the Florida Sales Associate exam.
- Build Success With Brokerage and Education: Choosing the right brokerage (splits, training, culture) and committing to ongoing education are key to a strong first year and long-term growth.
Tampa’s Real Estate Market
Knowing your market is a key factor in being a successful real estate agent. So, here’s a quick look at the current state of Tampa’s real estate market and whether it is worth starting your real estate career in Tampa.
Challenges and Opportunities in Tampa’s Real Estate Market
Tampa’s real estate market is a bit of a mixed bag as we enter the first part of 2026. The median sale price of Tampa homes is $418,400, down 7.5% from the previous year. However, home sales have increased in recent months, up 5.5% year over year.
While low housing inventory is a nationwide issue, some cities have seen more inventory come on the market due to new construction. According to this report, Tampa ranks 15th among cities for new home construction, which bodes well for the city’s housing market.
Is It Worth Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Tampa?
Many people enter real estate for its unlimited income potential. However, median income for real estate agents varies by city and state. So, what can you expect to earn as a Tampa real estate agent?
According to our 2026 Florida Real Estate Salary Guide, 58% of full-time real estate agents in Florida report earning between $100,000 and $200,000. Although Tampa’s home values are taking a slight dip, signs show that sales are improving, which makes now a great time to get your Florida real estate license.
Requirements to Become a Real Estate Agent in Tampa
There are only three prerequisites to getting your Florida real estate license. You must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have a social security number
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent education (such as a GED)
Once you meet those three requirements, you can take the necessary steps to get your Florida real estate license.
Step 1: Complete the required pre-licensing education.
First, you must complete the 63-hour Florida real estate sales associate course, which covers the ins and outs of practicing real estate in Florida. Gold Coast Schools offers this pre-licensing course in English and Spanish in three formats (in-person classroom, livestream, and online).
Step 2: Submit your fingerprints.
Next, you must submit your fingerprints to a registered provider for a background check. To streamline your application, complete the fingerprinting process before submitting your licensing application.
Step 3: Submit your licensing application.
Thirdly, you must submit your real estate license application and any mandatory fees to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
Step 4: Take and pass the Florida real estate exam.
Finally, you need to take and pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate exam. While your pre-licensing course will prepare you for the exam, some students elect to take a test-prep class, such as Gold Coast Schools’ instructor-led Exam Cram course, which is included in most of Gold Coast Schools’ pre-licensing packages.
Once you’ve completed these four steps, you’ll be on your way to launching your successful new career in Tampa real estate.
Building Your Real Estate Career in Tampa
Setting yourself up for a successful first year as a Tampa real estate agent comes down to two essential factors: selecting the right brokerage and continuing your real estate education.
Selecting the right Tampa brokerage
Selecting the right brokerage for your unique goals and working style can significantly impact your career trajectory. When choosing a brokerage, you’ll want to consider factors such as commission splits, training for new agents, and the brokerage’s work culture. Fortunately, Gold Coast Schools provides students with access to monthly career fairs to learn about local brokerages. It is the perfect opportunity to discover which brokerage best fits you.
Continuing your real estate education
One commonality among top real estate agents is their investment in professional development. Keeping up with your continuing education requirements, pursuing advanced training, or attending industry conferences are valuable ways to keep your real estate skills and knowledge up to date and better serve your clients. Whether you just got your license or have been working in real estate for 20 years, an agent’s education is never finished.
Interested in a career in Tampa real estate? Gold Coast School’s Tampa real estate course outlines the ins and outs of Tampa’s real estate market and the steps you need to take to become a top Tampa real estate agent. Gold Coast School has been trusted by Floridians for 55+ years for all their real estate education needs. Get started today!