Have you ever pictured a new career where you’re in control of your schedule and have unlimited earning potential? Becoming a real estate agent in Florida could be the fresh start you’re looking for.
The first step on this exciting journey is completing the required pre-licensing education. This guide will walk you through exactly what you’ll learn in real estate school, how to prepare for your exam, and the next steps to launch your successful career.
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Real estate school covers essential topics, including property rights, contracts, real estate law, and financing, to build a strong foundation for your career.
- State-Specific Regulations: You’ll learn Florida-specific laws and regulations, which are crucial for practicing legally and ethically in the state.
- Practical Math Skills: The course teaches you practical math skills needed for daily tasks, such as calculating commissions, property taxes, and loan payments.
- Path to Licensure: The pre-licensing course is the mandatory first step to qualify for the Florida real estate exam and activate your license.
- Flexible Learning Options: Schools offer various formats, including online, in-person, and livestream classes, allowing you to choose the best fit for your learning style and schedule.
Overview of Florida Real Estate Pre-Licensing Courses
Before you can help clients buy or sell their dream homes in the Sunshine State, you need to build a solid foundation of knowledge. Florida requires all aspiring real estate agents to complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course. This course is designed to equip you with the fundamental principles, laws, and practices of the real estate industry. Successfully completing this education is your ticket to sitting for the state licensing exam and is an essential first step toward a rewarding career.
Core Subjects in the 63-Hour Pre-License Course
Your 63-hour course is packed with information that you’ll use to pass the exam and throughout your real estate career. It’s broken down into several key subjects that provide a comprehensive overview of the industry.
Real estate principles and practices
This is the heart of your real estate education. You’ll explore the core concepts that govern the industry, from property rights and types of ownership to how real estate is transferred. Understanding these principles is vital because they form the basis of every transaction you’ll handle.
You’ll also learn the practical side of the business, including how to list properties, work with buyers, and navigate the closing process.
Florida real estate law and regulations
Every state has its own set of real estate laws, and Florida is no exception. This part of the course focuses on the specific laws and regulations you must follow as a Florida real estate agent. Topics include license law, brokerage relationships, and ethical conduct as mandated by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC). A deep understanding of these regulations is critical to protect yourself, your clients, and your license.
Real estate math
Don’t let the word “math” intimidate you. The calculations you’ll learn are practical and directly applicable to your daily work. This section teaches you how to calculate commissions, transfer taxes, property taxes, and prorations for closings. For example, you might need to figure out the exact amount a seller needs to pay in property taxes for the portion of the year they owned the home. Mastering these skills will make you a confident and competent agent.
Check out this series of math tutorials to learn the calculations you’ll need to pass the real estate exam.
Get Help With Real Estate Math
Exam Preparation and Application Process
Once you complete your course, the next step is to get licensed. This involves applying for and passing the Florida real estate exam.
Steps to apply for the Florida real estate exam
The application process is straightforward if you follow the steps.
- Submit Your Application: You must submit an application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). You can do this online or by mail.
- Get Fingerprinted: You will need to have your fingerprints taken by a state-approved vendor. These are used for a background check.
- Get Approved: Once the DBPR approves your application, you will receive a notification that you are eligible to take the state exam.
It’s worth noting that active members of The Florida Bar are exempt from the pre-licensing course requirement but must still pass the state exam.
Exam structure and topics
The Florida real estate sales associate exam is a 100-question, multiple-choice test. You’ll have 3.5 hours to complete it. The questions cover 19 knowledge areas, and you need a score of 75% or higher to pass.
Post-Education Steps
Passing the exam is a major milestone, but a couple more steps are needed before you can start your career.
Affiliate with a licensed broker
In Florida, a sales associate’s license is initially issued as “inactive.” To activate it, you must affiliate with a licensed real estate broker. Your broker will mentor you, provide resources, and oversee your transactions. Choosing the right brokerage is a crucial decision that can shape your early career success.
Related Article: How to Choose the Best Real Estate Brokerage to Work for in Florida
Join professional associations
While not required, consider joining professional organizations like the National Association of REALTORS® and Florida REALTORS®. These associations offer valuable resources and networking opportunities.
Complete post-license education
If you’re renewing your real estate license for the first time, it’s essential to complete a 45-hour Post-License course as required by the Florida Real Estate Commission. This education must be completed before your initial license renewal deadline, with no exceptions or extensions offered. Failing to meet this requirement will result in your license becoming invalid.
To protect the effort and investment you’ve made in your real estate career, be proactive and complete your post-license education well ahead of the deadline. Planning ahead ensures you stay licensed and ready to continue pursuing opportunities in the field.
Comparison: Salesperson vs. Broker Courses
After working as a sales associate for at least 24 months, you can pursue a broker license. The broker course is more advanced, covering topics like brokerage management, real estate investment, and advanced legal issues.
Becoming a broker enables you to establish your own firm and hire other agents, thereby opening up new career paths and increasing your earning potential.
Learning Formats: Online vs. In-Person
Real estate schools in Florida offer flexible learning options to fit different needs.
- In-Person Classes: In-person classes are ideal for those who thrive in a structured, interactive environment with direct access to expert instructors.
- Livestream Classes: This is an excellent hybrid option that combines the structure of a live class with the convenience of learning from home.
- Online Courses: Online courses are perfect for self-motivated individuals who need the flexibility to study at their own pace, anytime and anywhere.
Consider your personal learning style and schedule when choosing a format. Many schools also offer courses in both English and Spanish to serve Florida’s diverse population.
Additional Considerations
Here are a few other factors to keep in mind as you start your journey.
Cost of real estate school in Florida
The cost of the 63-hour pre-licensing course can vary depending on the school and the format you choose. Tuition generally ranges from a few hundred to several hundred dollars. Remember to check what’s included in your tuition package before enrolling. Look for comprehensive packages that offer exam prep materials and instructor support. These resources can save you time and money by helping you pass your exam on the first try.
When it comes to your education, cheaper isn’t necessarily better.
Related Article: How Much is Real Estate School in Florida?
Best real estate schools for exam success
When selecting a school, look for one with a long track record of success, high pass rates, and experienced instructors. Top-performing schools like Gold Coast Schools have been educating Florida’s real estate professionals for over 50 years and offer comprehensive support, including exam prep simulators and career resources.
Continuing Education and Career Growth
Your education doesn’t stop once you’re licensed. Florida requires sales associates to complete 45 hours of post-licensing education before their first license renewal. After that, you’ll need to complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years to keep your license active. This ongoing learning keeps you current on industry trends and legal updates, ensuring you continue to grow as a professional.
Your Real Estate Career Starts Now
Completing your pre-licensing education is the first step toward a successful and rewarding career in Florida real estate. At Gold Coast Schools, we provide flexible course options, expert instructors, and decades of experience to ensure you’re fully prepared for the exam and the opportunities ahead. With a proven track record of helping students succeed, we’re here to give you the tools and confidence you need to achieve your goals. Start your journey today with Gold Coast Schools—your future in real estate starts here!
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