Pennsylvania has a dynamic property market with opportunities for realtors of all skill levels. You will meet clients with different needs, from young couples looking for one-bedroom apartments in Philadelphia or Pittsburg, to retirees looking to buy farmland in Warren. However, you must get a realtor’s license before you can start working in PA’s property market.
You can get your license by completing the pre-licensing program offered online or by attending in-person classes. But the real challenge lies in finding the best course to help you pass the state licensing exam and achieve your goals.
Here is a guide to help you get your PA realtor’s license.
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What Are the Prerequisites?
Like in other states, you must be 18 years or older and a legal U.S. citizen to work as a realtor in Pennsylvania. A high school diploma is enough regarding educational requirements. However, a college degree, even if not related to real estate, will boost your chances of securing employment after licensure.
Another thing worth noting is that you must have a clean record. Past felonies can hinder your chances of working in PA’s property market. We recommend contacting the Real Estate Commission to review your cases before enrolling in a pre-licensing program.
Find the Best Education Option
The first thing you must do is find an approved online course or in-person school offering pre-licensing courses. The many options available will make this process challenging. Start by reviewing your learning style and daily routine.
Online programs are more flexible and convenient. They are ideal if you have a busy schedule and cannot find enough time to attend classes. You can browse around these guys if you are interested in using online pre-licensing programs.
The course is 75 hours long, split into two major sections. The first section is 30 hours long and covers topics related to real estate fundamentals. The remaining 45 hours focus on real estate practices.
Course Completion and Exams
After finishing the 75-hour pre-licensing course, it is time to test your knowledge. Exams can be scary, so take your time and study hard before setting the date. You can buy an exam preparation package or use free videos available on YouTube for revision.
Also, download a copy of the PREC candidate handbook. In it, you will find sample questions and reference materials to help you prepare for the test. The exam covers real estate principles, practices, and Pennsylvania-specific laws.
Secure a Sponsoring Broker
A sponsoring broker is a licensed professional working as a property market broker in PA. Their role will be to guide you and offer career advice as you start your job as a salesperson in PA’s property market. Take your time and find a competent individual or brokerage company.
You can ask for recommendations from your instructors or friends working in the industry. Working and building a strong relationship with your broker is crucial for your professional growth.
After you have a sponsor secured, you can then proceed to submit your license application to PREC. The commission will review your application and issue your license once all requirements are met.
