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What is the process to obtain a real estate license in Florida?

I'm looking into getting my real estate license and wanted to see what the process is. Should I find a class and then take the exam? Do I have to take the class or can I get away with the study manuals? I've been buying/selling houses for a couple of years now and wasn't sure if there was too much info, besides real estate laws that I would need to learn. After that do you just have to find a brokerage to work under to list properties? Thanks, Happy New Year.

Public Comments

1. Your best bet is to sign up with a local Century 21 office or similar. You go to the classes and then take the test to get your license like everyone else, but working with an office like C21 will give you real exposure to the realities of completing contracts, help with leads, etc. They also have their own in-house training and being around a staff may help to keep you motivated and informed on what is going on in your local market. You don't want to be a small fish in a big sea in this kind of down -market. You do need to work under a broker to work as a agent, but if you simply want to list properties on a MLS system, there are a lot of companies that will list you on the MLS system as an individual. If you decide to take that route, remember to offer a good commission (currently at least 4% to the BUYERS AGENT) Since you live in FL and selling a house, you first compete with the builders. Some of the builders are offering agents 8% and offering buyers great deals on down payment assistance and upgrades. If an agent has a prospective buyer, whose house will they show first? The one offering the highest commission. Hope this helps.
2. Bobcat gave you some advise, however, Florida law requires you to take a real estate course, pass the school exam, and then prepare for the state.exam. This is not an easy test to pass. This will require some time and discipline. I moved from New York with a real estate license, 6 years ago I went through this procedure. Avery good school is called the Gold Coast School of Real Estate. Good Luck