How to Become a Realtor Step by Step

Becoming a Realtor is easy, and it only takes 5 steps.

1. Get your real estate license
2. Join a brokerage
3. Become a member in your local Realtor’s Association
4. Pay your dues
5. Take the required continuing education courses and pass the tests

Once you do this you’ll be able to add Realtor to your title.

Having the title Realtor also provides you with numerous benefits. Being a Realtor builds trust with your clients since you’re adhering to best practices and in many cases can let you charge more. You gain access to Realtor only networking events to grow your lead funnel and the esteem can make you more desirable to brokerages. Here is more information on the differences between a Realtor and a Real Estate Agent.

Now that you know the steps to become a Realtor and the benefits, here’s a bit more information on each step.

Get Your Real Estate License

The first thing you’ll need to become a realtor is a real estate license. You’ll need to complete a set amount of educational courses, pass an exam, and undergo a background check. How much schooling is necessary depends on the state you live in, so you will need to reference your local laws for that detail.

Join a brokerage

Your title is still not considered official after getting a license until you join a brokerage. Once you join you’ll get your own yard signs and have your designation listed.

One thing to keep in mind is that some states require you to be sponsored by a broker to be eligible to take your exam and obtain your license. It’s worth knowing that the branch office member must be a member of the NAR for its agents to be eligible to join.

Join Your Local Realtor’s Association

Once you have a broker, you are officially a licensed agent. You can now find your local realtor’s association and join. There are more than 1,400 locations across the country; finding one near you is easy.  Start on the NAR website.

Pay Your Dues

You are required to pay membership fees when joining your local association. There is normally a one-time registration fee and annual fees you are responsible for covering to remain an active member.

Complete All Required Courses and Certifications

Becoming a Realtor also requires you to complete continuing education courses. You must attend these courses every two years either in person or online. Luckily, these sessions last only about 8-16 hours depending on your jurisdiction, and won’t demand up much of your time.

And now you have everything you need to know to become a Realtor.