How One Can Become a Real Estate Agent in California?

Real estate is one of the most advantageous businesses one can invest in. It has good returns, and the more you practice, the higher your commission is. However, one thing you need to remember is that it takes time to build a career as a real estate agent in California. It is not something that will transpire overnight. It would be best if you were willing to put in the time and work.

How much is the salary range for a real estate agent in California?

Obtaining a real estate license in the state of California can put you on the fast track to accomplishment. California real estate agents are generously compensated. Many out-earn professionals in other industries. It is essential to note that California real estate agent salaries differ by locale. Some towns have egregiously expensive properties that authorize real estate agents to take home monstrous commissions. Other areas are more moderately priced, acquiesce real estate agents to make more than a living wage but not top the six-figure mark.

The average salary for real estate agents in California real estate agents is $82,000, representing 7% more compensation than the average real estate agent across the US. When it comes to real estate, the bottom line is that an agent’s competence to close deals will determine his salary. If he closes an ample number of property transactions, he will undeniably pile up the commissions and make an excellent salary.

How one can get a California Real Estate Agent License?

To get a California Real Estate Agent license, one needs to attain an age of at least 18 years. Apart from this, one needs to have a Social Security number or an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). Some of the steps that one need to follow to get a California Real Estate Agent license are such as –

Step 1 – Need to complete a 135-hour pre-licensing course

To become a real estate agent in California, one needs to complete 135-course hours through a state-approved real estate school such as Real Estate Express. The cost of this course is as low as $119 with Real Estate Express. Your classes will cover topics such as property management, real estate finance, and mortgage loan brokering and lending. You will need the help of a highly rated California real estate school to get through this weighty material. Most people designate a real estate school based on the cost and the educational format of the exam course. The time duration of this course may range from 1 month if tasking a self-paced course to 2-3 months if taking in-person classes. Some of the most popular options are such as –

In-person Classes

Wherever you live in California, you need to find a real estate school that meets in person during regularly scheduled sessions. 

Live Stream Classes

Live stream classes are at scheduled times and are broadcast over Zoom or any other video conferencing tool. With these classes, you can learn from the comfort and safety of your home.

At your own pace online classes

Online real estate classes are extremely popular for those who want to become real estate agents in California. This course material may be present in a series of slides, videos, and interactive content.

Step 2 – Complete the California Exam Application

The next step to becoming a real estate agent in California is to complete the California Department of Real Estate’s Salesperson Examination Application. This form asks for your address, Social Security number (or ITIN), and driver’s license number, etc. So make sure you have all these things with you. There is a $60 fee for your exam application. You will need to wait for your application to be processed to receive the date, time, and location of your exam. In the meantime, one can hit the books and study for the exam to get a real estate license.

Step 3 – Pass the California real estate salesperson

The California real estate exam testing centers are located in the following cities such as –

• Los Angeles
• Fresno
• Oakland
• Sacramento
• San Diego

You need to arrive 30 minutes early at these testing centers. One needs to visit the State of California’s Department of Real Estate page. To review the types of government-issued identification they will accept, and their lengthy list of items you are prohibited from bringing to the exam room. After completing the multiple-choice exam, you will learn whether you passed or failed upon completion. If you do not pass, you will be given a detailed score report that will benefit you to prepare for the retake. You can retake the exam as many times as you like within the time duration of two years following the date you sent in your original exam application.

Step 4 – Join a California real estate brokerage

The State of California requires that you work under a real estate broker after passing the real estate salesperson exam. A broker has received additional training, has worked successfully in the industry for a minimum period of 2 weeks, and has passed the broker’s license exam. 

Step 5 – Complete the licensing process

You will need to complete the California License Application Form to get a real agent license in California. This form asks for additional background information and requires a $245 fee. Apart from this, you will also need to locate and visit a live scan fingerprint service provider as a part of your background check. There is a $45 fee for this service. Now you need to wait for your license application to be processed.

Wrap Up:

Now that you have learned how to become a real estate agent in California. Now you are capable to open your brokerage and take advantage of the career flexibility and financial incentives that come with being your real estate boss.

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