While becoming a real estate agent can come with its hardships and common beginner mistakes, it’s a great way to change up your career and make great money. Florida is one of the top three inbound states in the United States, which means there are new properties and communities that crop up every day. So if you’re looking to find the land of real estate opportunity, look no further. This is a guide to becoming a real estate agent in Florida to ensure success in your new career.
Pre-License Education
Before you take courses, you need to become a real estate agent in Florida. You need to be 18 years or older with a social security number and a high school diploma or GED. Then, you can sign up for the 63-hour Florida pre-license course if you meet these pre-requisites. This course will teach you everything you need to know about the best practices and principles of being a real estate agent.
Course Exam
After completing the course work, you have to pass the final exam with a minimum score of 70 percent. If you don’t pass initially, you can retake the exam within the same year. However, if you fail again, you will have to retake the entirety of the course before retaking the exam.
Depending on the course package you choose, the pre-license course and testing can cost anywhere between $90 to $200.
DBPR Background Check
The cost of fingerprinting can vary by location and typically costs $50 on average. In addition, you must submit your fingerprints to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) five days before you submit your license application for them to do a proper background check.
Real Estate Agent License Application
After sending your fingerprints, you must submit your application to the DBPR by creating a profile online and applying for a new license on their website under “Apply for a New License.” If your application is approved, you will receive either a digital or paper notice from the DBPR that you have been approved with your RE Application ID number. The fee for sending in your application to the DBPR is $89.
Florida Salesperson License Exam
Finally, you must pass the Florida Salesperson License Exam, which you can choose to take from your home or office. It’s easy to schedule online at pearsonvue.com after creating an account and entering your RE Application ID number. The examination fee for the Florida Real Estate exam is $36.
In total, the cost of becoming a real estate agent in Florida is around $350 to $400, depending on which course package you choose and where you get your fingerprints done. On average, it takes people around half of a year to receive their license and pass the exam.
Hopefully, this guide to becoming a real estate agent in Florida shows you that anyone can become a real estate agent and start a great career in the fantastic sunshine state.
