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How to Get Your Real Estate License in Oklahoma

sell it like serhant pre licensing sales accelerator oklahoma get your real estate license in ok

Looking for an up-and-coming real estate market to get involved in? How about one that’s popular with investors and homeowners alike? Then it’s time to think about getting your real estate license in Oklahoma! Business is booming in the aviation and aerospace, bioscience, financial services and international trade sectors, making the capitol, Oklahoma City, a desirable place to live. 

Whether it’s been your goal to become a real estate agent for a while now or you’re just now considering it as a new career option, the real estate business can offer you everything you want in a career. 

So, you want to know how to get your real estate license in Oklahoma? The overall licensing process and education requirements are typically pretty similar across the U.S., although some of the specifics may change, depending on your home state. Let’s take a look at the list of basic requirements you’ll need to meet to become a licensed real estate salesperson in the state of Oklahoma. 

  1. Complete 90 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education
  2. Submit your fingerprints and pass the background check
  3. Apply for a provisional sales associate license
  4. Schedule and pass the Oklahoma Salesperson Exam
  5. Find a sponsoring broker

1. Complete 90 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education.  

The Oklahoma Real Estate Commission (OREC) requires all prospective provisional sales associates (first-time applicants for licensing) to complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education before taking a real estate licensing exam. In Oklahoma, pre-licensing education includes information on contract law, listing agreements, real estate finance, closings, Oklahoma laws and much more. 

Most pre-licensing courses in Oklahoma can be taken online or in person. Pre-licensing courses approved by the state of Oklahoma can be found here. You have three years from the time you pass your pre-licensing education to take and pass the provisional sales associate licensing exam.

Please note that passing these education courses does not guarantee that you’ll pass your real estate exam. Take advantage of practice tests and review hours to make sure you’re fully prepared. Practice exams are available through PSI for $23.95.

2. Submit your fingerprints and apply for a background check. 

All applicants for a provisional sales associate license must be fingerprinted and undergo a background check. Background checks for the state of Oklahoma are provided by IdentoGO and cost $60. To schedule an appointment with IdentoGO, click here and use the service code 2B7NR3. 

Background checks can take 60 days or longer to complete, so make sure you book this appointment before taking the exam or submitting your provisional sales associate application.

3. Apply for a provisional sales associate license. 

Once you have successfully completed the pre-licensing education, it’s time to gather up the documents you’ll need to submit a Request for Issuance of an Active Provisional Sales Associate or Sales Associate License to OREC. Some of these can take weeks to arrive, and you don’t want them holding up your entire process. For the state of Oklahoma, these documents include:

  • Certificate of Completion of approved 90 hour pre-license course (must be completed within the past three years)
  • Proof of Citizenship. A copy of your birth certificate or valid passport is acceptable. A copy of a driver’s license will not be considered.
  • Fingerprints
  • Proof of high school graduation
  • Licensing fee of $100

Your full license application must be submitted before you take the provisional sales associate exam. Information on scheduling the exam will be given to you upon completion and approval of your application, usually within 5 days of submission. Applications are valid for one year.

4. Schedule and pass the Oklahoma State exam. 

The final exam must be taken in person at an approved PSI testing facility. You will receive an email from PSI with information on how to schedule your exam at a testing center. 

On your exam date, you’ll need to present a valid, signature-bearing form of identification. A driver’s license is acceptable. NO personal items are allowed at testing centers, with the exception of a silent, non-programmable calculator. You will be given paper and pencil when you arrive.

The exam is made up of 130 multiple-choice questions and is divided into two sections: a national portion and a state portion. The national portion of the exam covers general real estate practices and national laws, such as fair housing regulations. The state portion of the real estate license exam covers Oklahoma-specific laws and practices. You’ll have a total of 300 minutes to complete the exam. 

The exam fee is $60, and to pass the exam you must score 70% or better. You will be notified of your exam results immediately on the computer screen when you finish the exam. If you don’t pass the final on your first attempt, you’ll be able to schedule a retake immediately. You are allowed to retake the exam an unlimited number of times. The fees apply each time. 

Within 48 hours of passing the exam, you will receive an automated email message from OREC with a link that contains your results and instructions on how to issue your license completely online with the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission. 

Completing these steps does not make you an Oklahoma Realtor, however. This is because “Realtor” is a copyrighted term owned by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR has its own list of requirements to join, and each member of NAR is bound to specific ethical standards. 

5. Select your sponsoring broker. 

Now there’s just one final step you need to take before you can legally practice real estate in Oklahoma. When you first receive your license document, you’ll have an inactive license status. In order to activate your license, you’ll need to find a real estate broker to sponsor you, so they can submit the license activation paperwork to OREC. In Oklahoma, a new salesperson doesn’t actually have the legal authority to complete real estate transactions on their own. A broker, however, operates their own real estate company, and can oversee salespeople in real estate activities. 

Even if the state didn’t require you to work through real estate brokerage services at first, I would still strongly recommend it to any new real estate agent. When I first started, I didn’t join a team, and I look back on that as one of my biggest mistakes. If I could give you one piece of advice on how to pick the right broker to work with, it’s this:  Make sure that the broker you’re considering matches your needs, and don’t worry about the other way around. 

Before you commit to anything, I recommend researching each brokerage you’re considering. Start with their reputation. Does this broker seem to be on solid ground with a good reputation in the state? Ask them about how much room you’ll have to grow at their brokerage. What kind of training program or further education do they offer? What is their commission structure like? Do they charge desk fees to work at the brokerage? If so, do they offer any technological advantages, such as a multiple listing service (MLS)?

Once you’ve found the right broker, your license can be updated to active status. Congratulations on earning the right to practice real estate! 

FAQs 

Does Oklahoma have license reciprocity with other states? 

Yes. The Oklahoma Real Estate Commission has reciprocal agreements with the following states and may grant a license-for-license as long as you meet all the rules.

How much time does it take to get your real estate license? 

This is really a question for yourself more than it is for anyone else. How long do you want it to take? Driven students who treat their course hours like a job can complete their education within a few weeks. The longest process for them will likely be waiting on their fingerprints card. It’s also not uncommon for some students to take around six months to complete everything. 

There are only two things about this that I can tell you for sure. The best time to start working toward your initial license is right now, and you have the ability to control your own pace after you start. 

Is there anything aspiring real estate professionals can do to get an advantage? 

You bet there is! In fact, I’ve partnered with the CE Shop to make sure of it. Through our partnership, we’ve created the training program that I wish I had when I first started my journey into real estate. With the Sell It Like Serhant: Pre-Licensing Accelerator, you’re getting a full state-qualifying education combined with my own sales system that my team and I use at my brokerage. 

In addition to getting all the course hours you need from our state-approved program, this package includes plenty of unique benefits. You’ll have support from state-approved expert instructors, all the ebooks that you’ll need to succeed, as well as my own “Quick Start Guide”. Each helps you prepare for your state exam with the latest information and tips. 

Speaking of exam prep, this course package contains 10 progress exams, five practice exams (three state and two national) and flashcards to get you ready for test day. We’re so confident you’ll pass your exam the first time that Utah students even get our Pass or Don’t Pay guarantee. If you don’t pass your state exam on your first attempt, we’ll refund all your money! 

The good news doesn’t stop there, either. This course package also includes a membership to additional resources from SERHANT. to help you start achieving success from your first day in the business. Perhaps the most notable of these is my Sell It Like Serhant: Real Estate Core video course. This is a 42-video online course that teaches you the same techniques that I use with my team to generate leads, create markets, close deals, and much more. 

You already have the potential to get your license and build a successful real estate career inside you. Let us help you unlock that potential today! 

More from Sell It Like Serhant

For more real estate tips and tricks from Ryan and Sell It Like Serhant, follow us on Instagram and TikTok. 

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How to Get Your Real Estate License in Mississippi

sell it like serhant pre licensing sales accelerator mississippi get your real estate license in ms

With the lowest cost of living in the country, Mississippi is one of the most affordable places to buy a home. Add to that the rich history of the area and the classic Southern atmosphere, and this state is a great place to own property. If you’re thinking about starting a career in real estate in Mississippi, now is the perfect time.

Whether it’s been your goal to become a real estate agent for a while now or you’re just now considering it as a new career option, the real estate business can offer you everything you want in a career. 

So, you want to know how to get your real estate license in Mississippi? The overall licensing process and education requirements are typically pretty similar across the U.S., although some of the specifics may change, depending on your home state. Let’s take a look at the list of basic requirements you’ll need to meet to become a licensed real estate salesperson in the state of Mississippi. 

  1. Meet the prerequisites
  2. Complete 60 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education
  3. Pass the course final exam
  4. Find a sponsoring broker
  5. Apply for a Mississippi Real Estate License
  6. Pass the Mississippi Real Estate Exam

1. Meet the prerequisites. 

To become a real estate salesperson in the state of Mississippi, the Mississippi Real Estate Commission (MREC) requires all prospective real estate agents to be at least 18 years old and a resident of the state of Mississippi.

2. Complete 60 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education.  

The first step to becoming a real estate agent in the state of Mississippi is completing the 60-Hour Salesperson Pre‑Licensing Course. The pre-licensing course includes education on State and National real estate. Pre-licensing courses in Mississippi can be taken online. 

Please note that passing these education courses does not guarantee that you’ll pass your real estate exam. Take advantage of practice tests and review hours to make sure you’re fully prepared. 

3. Pass the pre-licensing course final exam. 

Once you’ve finished your real estate education courses, the next step is to pass your course final. The final exam includes 100 questions. In order to pass, you must score 70% or higher.

You may take the pre-licensing final exam as many times as you need to in order to pass. You have six months from the time you enroll in the pre-licensing course to take the final exam.

Once you’ve passed, you will receive a digital certificate of completion. You will need this in order to apply for a real estate license. 

Note that this is not the same thing as your actual license exam. Think of this final as a sort of practice exam you need to pass before you’re eligible to take the official real estate licensing exam. 

4. Select a real estate broker sponsor.

Once you have passed the test and met the above requirements, you are issued an inactive license. To get the green light to be a real estate agent in the state of Mississippi, you need to find an active real estate broker to sponsor you. Once a broker accepts your request, your license is upgraded to active, and you are free to work as a real estate agent in the state of Mississippi.

Even if the state didn’t require you to work through real estate brokerage services at first, I would still strongly recommend it to any new real estate agent. When I first started, I didn’t join a team, and I look back on that as one of my biggest mistakes. If I could give you one piece of advice on how to pick the right broker to work with, it’s this:  Make sure that the broker you’re considering matches your needs, and don’t worry about the other way around. 

Before you commit to anything, I recommend researching each brokerage you’re considering. Start with their reputation. Does this broker seem to be on solid ground with a good reputation in the state? Ask them about how much room you’ll have to grow at their brokerage. What kind of training program or further education do they offer? What is their commission structure like? Do they charge desk fees to work at the brokerage? If so, do they offer any technological advantages, such as a multiple listing service (MLS)?

Once you’ve found the right broker, your license can be updated to active status. Congratulations on earning the right to practice real estate! 

5.  Apply for a Mississippi Real Estate License.

After you find your sponsoring brokerage, your next step is to fill out and submit an application for a resident salesperson license. Complete the application and return it to the Mississippi Real Estate Commission with the application fee of $110. Make sure you answer each question to the application or your application will be returned to you. 

You’ll need to submit a background check, proof of proper identification and attach two photographs (front and profile views) with your application. Make sure signatures are notarized with seal. When your application is approved, you’ll receive a letter from the Commission. 

6. Pass the Mississippi Real Estate Exam.

Once your application has been approved, contact PSI to schedule an appointment to take the licensing exam. The licensing exam must be taken in person at a designated exam site. 

Exams are offered monthly. You may take the State portion of the exam twice within two months of your real estate license application being approved and an unlimited number of times for the National portion. The exam fee is $75.

On your exam date, you’ll need to present two forms of identification. One must be a signature-bearing, valid form of government issued identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport that has your photograph. The second ID must have your signature and preprinted legal name, like a credit card, debit card, or wholesale membership card. NO personal items are allowed at testing centers, but you may have a basic-function calculator and scratch paper.

You will have four hours to take the Mississippi Real Estate Exam. The exam is 100 questions and consists of two sections, a State portion and a National portion. You must score at least 70% on the National portion and 75% on the state portion of the exam.

You’ll be notified of your test results upon completion. If you did not pass, you’ll receive diagnostic scoring information for the National portion of the exam only and will be able to schedule a retake. You are allowed to retake the exam an unlimited number of times.

If you fail twice within two months, there’s a three-month waiting period before you can take the exam again. The $75 exam fee applies each time.

Completing these steps does not make you a Mississippi Realtor, however. This is because “Realtor” is a copyrighted term owned by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR has its own list of requirements to join, and each member of NAR is bound to specific ethical standards. 

FAQs 

Does Mississippi have license reciprocity with other states? 

Yes. The state of Mississippi has license reciprocity with all 50 states. In order to become a licensed real estate salesperson in Mississippi, you must hold an active real estate license in another state and submit a real estate license application that includes your Certification of Licensure from another state. You do not have to take the Mississippi Real Estate Exam.

How much time does it take to get your real estate license? 

This is really a question for yourself more than it is for anyone else. How long do you want it to take? Driven students who treat their course hours like a job can complete their education within a few weeks. The longest process for them will likely be waiting on their fingerprints card. On average, most students take 3-5 months to complete everything. 

There are only two things about this that I can tell you for sure. The best time to start working toward your initial license is right now, and you have the ability to control your own pace after you start. 

Is there anything aspiring real estate professionals can do to get an advantage? 

You bet there is! In fact, I’ve partnered with the CE Shop to make sure of it. Through our partnership, we’ve created the training program that I wish I had when I first started my journey into real estate. With the Sell It Like Serhant: Pre-Licensing Accelerator, you’re getting a full state-qualifying education combined with my own sales system that my team and I use at my brokerage. 

In addition to getting all the course hours you need from our state-approved program, this package includes plenty of unique benefits. You’ll have support from state-approved expert instructors, the ebooks that you’ll need to succeed, as well as my own “Quick Start Guide”. Each helps you prepare for your state exam with the latest information and tips. 

Speaking of exam prep, this course package contains 10 progress exams, five practice exams (three state and two national) and flashcards to get you ready for test day. We’re so confident you’ll pass your exam the first time that Mississippi students even get our Pass or Don’t Pay guarantee. If you don’t pass your state exam on your first attempt, we’ll refund all your money! 

The good news doesn’t stop there, either. This course package also includes a membership to additional resources from SERHANT. to help you start achieving success from your first day in the business. Perhaps the most notable of these is my Sell It Like Serhant: Real Estate Core video course. This is a 42-video online course that teaches you the same techniques that I use with my team to generate leads, create markets, close deals, and much more. 

You already have the potential to get your license and build a successful real estate career inside you. Let us help you unlock that potential today! 

More from Sell It Like Serhant

For more real estate tips and tricks from Ryan and Sell It Like Serhant, follow us on Instagram and TikTok. 

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How to Get Your Real Estate License in Missouri

sell it like serhant pre licensing sales accelerator missouri how to get your mo real estate license

Missouri has long been one of the more affordable places to buy a home, and the demand is high. With a very strong market in St. Louis as well as reasonable home pricing in rural areas and suburbs, now is the perfect time to start considering a real estate career in Missouri.

Whether it’s been your goal to become a real estate agent for a while now or you’re just now considering it as a new career option, the real estate business can offer you everything you want in a career. 

So, you want to know how to get your real estate license in Missouri? The overall licensing process and education requirements are typically pretty similar across the U.S., although some of the specifics may change, depending on your home state. Let’s take a look at the list of basic requirements you’ll need to meet to become a licensed real estate salesperson in the state of Missouri. 

  1. Complete 72 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education
  2. Pass the course final exam
  3. Pass the Missouri Real Estate Salesperson Exam
  4. Submit fingerprints and a background check
  5. Complete the Licensing Application

1. Complete 72 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education.  

To become a real estate salesperson in the state of Missouri, the Missouri Real Estate Commission (MREC) requires all prospective real estate agents to be at least 18 years old and complete 72 hours of pre-licensing education before taking the real estate licensing exam. 

The pre-licensing education includes the 48-Hour Salesperson Pre-Examination Course and the 24-Hour Missouri Real Estate Practice (MREP) Course. Pre-licensing courses in Missouri can be taken online. Missouri does not require the final pre-license exam to be supervised by a proctor. The pre-license exam is closed-book and closed-note. 

Please note that passing these education courses does not guarantee that you’ll pass your real estate exam. Take advantage of practice tests and review hours to make sure you’re fully prepared. 

2. Pass the pre-licensing course final exam. 

Once you’ve finished your real estate education courses, the next step is to pass your course final. Note that this is not the same thing as your actual license exam. Think of this final as a sort of practice exam you need to pass before you’re eligible to take the official real estate licensing exam. 

3. Schedule and pass the Missouri Real Estate Salesperson Exam. 

The next step to your real estate license is to apply to take the Missouri Real Estate Salesperson Exam. The final exam must be taken in person at an approved PSI testing facility. When you’re ready to take the exam, you can schedule an appointment by phone by calling their office at 888-818-5829.

You can also schedule your exam online at www.goAMP.com. The fee to take the exam is $62 per attempt. Exams are scheduled within five days of contacting PSI on a first-come, first served basis. 

You will have four hours to take the Missouri Real Estate Exam. The exam consists of two sections, a State portion and a National portion. The State portion contains 40 questions that cover general rules, licenses, educational requirements, business conduct and practices, brokerage relationships and disciplinary proceedings. The National portion contains 100 questions and covers topics like property ownership, land use controls and regulations, valuation and market analysis, financing and more.

On your exam date, you’ll need to present two forms of identification. One must be a signature-bearing, valid form of government issued identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport that has your photograph. The second ID must have your signature and preprinted legal name, like a credit card, debit card, or wholesale membership card. NO personal items are allowed at testing centers, but you may have a basic-function calculator and scratch paper.

In order to pass the Missouri Real Estate Exam and apply for a real estate license in the state of Missouri, you must score 70% on the National and State portions of the exam. You’ll receive a passing score report with instructions on how to apply for your real estate license. Make sure you keep this report.

You’ll be notified of your test results upon completion. If you did not pass, you’ll receive diagnostic scoring information for the National portion of the exam only. If you don’t pass the final on your first attempt, you’ll be able to schedule a retake as many times as you need. The $62 exam fee applies each time. 

4. Submit fingerprints and a background check.

Next, you’ll need to get fingerprinted and have a background check. Background checks are performed through the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS). Here are the steps to take.

  1. Register with MACHS at www.machs.mo.gov.
  2. Authorize the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) and the FBI to send the results of your background check to the MREC by entering four-digit code “0004”
  3. Once you register, choose a fingerprinting location. There are multiple locations throughout the state of Missouri, and some offer night and weekend hours. Appointments are on a first come, first served basis.

Please bring a Photo ID, such as a valid driver’s license, military ID or passport, with you to the fingerprinting site. Fingerprinting will take around 10 minutes and costs $43.05. The MSHP will send your background check results to MREC on your behalf. Fingerprinting services in Missouri are provided by IDEMNIA (Identogo).

You’ll be given a receipt with a unique TCN number on it when you’re done being fingerprinted. Keep this receipt, as it will need to be submitted with your licensing application. You may also use this TCN number if you need to contact MACHS about your background check. 

5. Submit a Missouri Real Estate License application. 

After meeting eligibility requirements and passing the Missouri Real Estate Salesperson Exam, you may apply for your salesperson license with the MREC. Remember that passing score report you received from your Missouri Real Estate Salesperson Exam? Flip it over, because the back contains full instructions on the application. Make sure you submit your application for a license to the MREC within six months of the date of your pre-examination course completion.

Congratulations!

FAQs 

What about a sponsoring brokerage?

Even though the state of Missouri doesn’t require agents to work with a sponsoring brokerage at first, I would still strongly recommend it to any new real estate agent. When I first started, I didn’t join a team, and I look back on that as one of my biggest mistakes. If I could give you one piece of advice on how to pick the right broker to work with, it’s this:  Make sure that the broker you’re considering matches your needs, and don’t worry about the other way around. 

Before you commit to anything, I recommend researching each brokerage you’re considering. Start with their reputation. Does this broker seem to be on solid ground with a good reputation in the state? Ask them about how much room you’ll have to grow at their brokerage. What kind of training program or further education do they offer? What is their commission structure like? Do they charge desk fees to work at the brokerage? If so, do they offer any technological advantages, such as a multiple listing service (MLS)?

Does Missouri have license reciprocity with other states? 

Yes. The state of Missouri has license reciprocity with all 50 states. In order to become a licensed real estate sales person in Missouri, you must hold an active real estate license in another state and:

  • Complete the 24-Hour MREP Course
  • Pass both sections of the Missouri Real Estate Exam
  • Submit a license application

How much time does it take to get your real estate license? 

This is really a question for yourself more than it is for anyone else. How long do you want it to take? Driven students who treat their course hours like a job can complete their education within a few weeks. The longest process for them will likely be waiting on their fingerprints card. On average, most students take 3-5 months to complete everything. 

There are only two things about this that I can tell you for sure. The best time to start working toward your initial license is right now, and you have the ability to control your own pace after you start. 

Is there anything aspiring real estate professionals can do to get an advantage? 

You bet there is! In fact, I’ve partnered with the CE Shop to make sure of it. Through our partnership, we’ve created the training program that I wish I had when I first started my journey into real estate. With the Sell It Like Serhant: Pre-Licensing Accelerator, you’re getting a full state-qualifying education combined with my own sales system that my team and I use at my brokerage. 

In addition to getting all the course hours you need from our state-approved program, this package includes plenty of unique benefits. You’ll have support from state-approved expert instructors, the ebooks that you’ll need to succeed, as well as my own “Quick Start Guide”. Each helps you prepare for your state exam with the latest information and tips. 

Speaking of exam prep, this course package contains 10 progress exams, five practice exams (three state and two national) and flashcards to get you ready for test day. We’re so confident you’ll pass your exam the first time that Missouri students even get our Pass or Don’t Pay guarantee. If you don’t pass your state exam on your first attempt, we’ll refund all your money! 

The good news doesn’t stop there, either. This course package also includes a membership to additional resources from SERHANT. to help you start achieving success from your first day in the business. Perhaps the most notable of these is my Sell It Like Serhant: Real Estate Core video course. This is a 42-video online course that teaches you the same techniques that I use with my team to generate leads, create markets, close deals, and much more. 

You already have the potential to get your license and build a successful real estate career inside you. Let us help you unlock that potential today! 

More from Sell It Like Serhant

For more real estate tips and tricks from Ryan and Sell It Like Serhant, follow us on Instagram and TikTok. 

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How to Get Your Real Estate License In Tennessee

sell it like serhant pre licensing sales accelerator tennessee get your real estate license in tn

Ready to jump into the Tennessee real estate market? Since you’ve found your way to this page, getting your Tennessee real estate license must be on your mind, and for good reason. You can’t beat the music, food and scenery in Tennessee. Plus, the state is very popular among younger home buyers. Tennessee is a very desirable market due to its lower cost of living and cultural diversity.

Whether it’s been your goal to become a real estate agent for a while now or you’re just now considering it as a new career option, the real estate business can offer you everything you want in a career. 

So, you want to know how to get your real estate license in Tennessee? The overall licensing process and education requirements are typically pretty similar across the U.S., although some of the specifics may change, depending on your home state. Let’s take a look at the list of basic requirements you’ll need to meet to become a licensed real estate salesperson in the state of Tennessee. 

  1. Meet the pre-qualifications.
  2. Complete pre-licensing education.
  3. Pass the course final exam.
  4. Register for and pass the TN Real Estate Affiliate Broker exam.
  5. Collect the necessary documents to apply for your license.  
  6. Complete the application.
  7. FAQs

1. Make sure you meet the pre-qualifications. 

Before you can start working on your license education, the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC) requires that you meet a few qualifications. To start, all applicants must be at least 18 years of age. You’ll also need to provide proof of residency as a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or legally present immigrant. Lastly, you’ll need to have your high school diploma or GED. 

Note:  You will be ineligible to be licensed as a real estate agent within two years of incarceration, probation, parole or conviction of a felony or misdemeanor involving theft of money, services, or property.

2. Complete pre-licensing education.  

Once you determine your eligibility as an applicant, your real first step is to begin your pre-licensing education. You’ll need to complete a 60-hour real estate education course in real estate principles/fundamentals and a 30-hour “Course for New Affiliates”. To take the pre-licensing courses, find an approved licensing school, such as a real estate school or community college. 

You may take your required coursework in person or through online classes. 

In Tennessee, your required education includes training on real estate law, finance, ownership, contracts, and the transfer and use of property.

Please note that passing these education courses does not guarantee that you’ll pass your real estate exam. Take advantage of the testing and review hours to make sure you’re fully prepared.

3. Pass the pre-licensing course final exam. 

Once you’ve finished your real estate education courses, the next step is to pass your course final. Note that this is not the same thing as your actual license exam. Think of this final as a sort of practice exam you need to pass before you’re eligible to take the official real estate licensing exam. 

Unlike your coursework, which allows you to take online courses, the final exam must be taken in person at an approved testing facility. Use the proctor locator map to find the testing center closest to you. Make sure to print out your proctor form and bring it with you on the exam date. 

You’ll complete your final on a computer provided at the testing center. The only things you can bring with you are a container of water with a lid, pencils, and a basic calculator. Scratch paper and all other needed materials will be provided by your proctor. If you don’t pass the final on your first attempt, you’ll be able to retake it two more times. 

Because the affiliate broker and broker examinations are divided into two sections, national and state, you only have to retake the section you didn’t pass. Your passing score for the other section is valid for two retakes of the section you didn’t pass, or six months, whichever comes first. Once you pass both sections of the final, you’ll receive a certificate of completion for your courses. 

4. Register for and pass the TN Real Estate Affiliate Broker exam.

Once you’re ready to take the Tennessee Real Estate Affiliate Broker Exam, you must meet all testing requirements. You must also have your pre-licensing education provider submit an application to the testing company, PSI.  You’ll receive an approval postcard or email with instructions on paying for and scheduling the exam. Practice exams are available through PSI for $23.95.

Once you receive approval, book your exam appointment online with PSI, Tennessee’s third-party exam provider, according to the instructions on the approval card. In-person and online remote proctored exam formats are available.

On your exam date, you’ll need to present two forms of valid, signature-bearing identification, at least one of which must be a photo ID. NO personal items are allowed at testing centers, with the exception of a silent, non-programmable calculator.

The exam is made up of 180 multiple-choice questions and is divided into two sections: a national portion and a state portion. The national portion of the exam covers general real estate practices and national laws, such as fair housing regulations. The state portion of the real estate license exam covers Tennessee-specific laws and practices. You’ll have a total of 300 minutes to complete the exam. 

When you’ve completed the exam, your score will be displayed on screen. You must receive a score of 70% or better in order to pass. A score report will also be emailed to you with written instructions on how to apply for your license. If you failed, the email will include a diagnostic report that shows where you can improve. 

If you don’t pass, you are allowed to retest within six months of your initial attempt. You can contact PSI after 24 hours of your unsuccessful attempt to schedule another exam. You will have to cover the $39 exam fee for each attempt. 

5. Collect the required documents and apply for licensing. 

Once you have successfully completed the exam, you’ll need to get certain documents together before you apply for your license. Some of these can take weeks to arrive, and you don’t want them holding up your entire process. For the state of Tennessee, these documents include:

  • Application photo
  • Fingerprints
  • E&O insurance
  • Eligibility verification
  • Proof of pre-license education 
  • Verification of passing the Tennessee Real Estate Affiliate Broker Exam
  • Proof of HS graduation
  • Licensing fees

Your full license application must be submitted within one year of passing your state exam. After one year, your exam score expires. A full application requires your Certificate of Completion for your course hours, your exam score report, and all disclosure documents previously discussed. To get your sales agent license, you’ll also need to cover an initial license fee of $90, a recovery fund fee of $1, a $35 fingerprinting fee, for a total of $126. 

Assuming your full application is in order, the TREC will send your license document in the mail. Congratulations on becoming a new licensee!

I should point out that completing these steps does not make you a Tennessee Realtor, however. This is because “Realtor” is a copyrighted term owned by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR has its own list of requirements to join, and each member of NAR is bound to specific ethical standards. 

7. Select your sponsoring broker. 

Now there’s just one final step you need to take before you can legally practice real estate in Tennessee. When you first receive your license document, you’ll have an inactive license status. In order to activate your license, you’ll need to find a sponsoring real estate broker to work under, so they can submit the license activation paperwork to the TREC. In Tennessee, a new salesperson doesn’t actually have the legal authority to complete real estate transactions on their own. A broker, however, operates their own real estate company, and can oversee salespeople in real estate activities. 

Even if the state didn’t require you to work through real estate brokerage services at first, I would still strongly recommend it to any new real estate agent. When I first started, I didn’t join a team, and I look back on that as one of my biggest mistakes. If I could give you one piece of advice on how to pick the right broker to work with, it’s this:  Make sure that the broker you’re considering matches your needs, and don’t worry about the other way around. 

Before you commit to anything, I recommend researching each brokerage you’re considering. Start with their reputation. Does this broker seem to be on solid ground with a good reputation in the state? Ask them about how much room you’ll have to grow at their brokerage. What kind of training program or further education do they offer? What is their commission structure like? Do they charge desk fees to work at the brokerage? If so, do they offer any technological advantages, such as a multiple listing service (MLS)?

Once you’ve found the right broker, your license can be updated to active status. Congratulations on earning the right to practice real estate! 

FAQs 

Does Tennessee have license reciprocity with other states? 

No, Tennessee does not have license reciprocity with any other states. However, if you’re a licensed agent in another state and now live in Tennessee, you may qualify to have some of the Tennessee real estate education requirements fulfilled by your previous education. To see if this applies to you, download and fill out an Education – Examination Evaluation Form and send it to TREC at TREC.info@tn.gov along with a “Certified License History” from all the states where you hold or have held a real estate license. TREC will review your request and let you know your next steps. 

How much time does it take to get your real estate license? 

This is really a question for yourself more than it is for anyone else. How long do you want it to take? Driven students who treat their course hours like a job can complete their education within a few weeks. The longest process for them will likely be waiting on their fingerprints card. It’s also not uncommon for some students to take around six months to complete everything. 

There are only two things about this that I can tell you for sure. The best time to start working toward your initial license is right now, and you have the ability to control your own pace after you start. 

Is there anything aspiring real estate professionals can do to get an advantage? 

You bet there is! In fact, I’ve partnered with the CE Shop to make sure of it. Through our partnership, we’ve created the training program that I wish I had when I first started my journey into real estate. With the Sell It Like Serhant: Pre-Licensing Accelerator, you’re getting a full state-qualifying education combined with my own sales system that my team and I use at my brokerage. 

In addition to getting all the course hours you need from our state-approved program, this package includes plenty of unique benefits. You’ll have support from state-approved expert instructors who are here to answer all of your questions within a single business day. We provide you with ebooks that you’ll need to succeed as well, including Principles of Real Estate Practice, The Real Estate Math Handbook, and my own “Quick Start Guide”. Each helps you prepare for your state exam with the latest information and tips. 

Speaking of exam prep, this course package contains 10 progress exams, five practice exams (three state and two national) and flashcards to get you ready for test day. We’re so confident you’ll pass your exam the first time that Tennessee students even get our Pass or Don’t Pay guarantee. If you don’t pass your state exam on your first attempt, we’ll refund all your money! 

The good news doesn’t stop there, either. I’ll continue to help you out even after you’ve activated your license. How? This course package also includes a membership to additional resources from SERHANT. to help you start achieving success from your first day in the business. Perhaps the most notable of these is my Sell It Like Serhant: Real Estate Core video course. This is a 42-video online course that teaches you the same techniques that I use with my team to generate leads, create markets, close deals, and much more. 

You already have the potential to get your license and build a successful real estate career inside you. Let us help you unlock that potential today! 

More from Sell It Like Serhant

For more real estate tips and tricks from Ryan and Sell It Like Serhant, follow us on Instagram and TikTok. 

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How to Get Your Real Estate License in Texas

sell it like serhant pre licensing sales accelerator texas get your real estate license in tx

They say everything is bigger in Texas, from the sprawling ranches to the suburban family homes. Whether you wrangle cows or kids, Texas has something for everyone. If you have ever found yourself lingering over the thought of becoming a real estate agent, now is a great time to take that plunge. A thriving economy coupled with affordable housing makes Texas the poster child for the national housing industry. 

Ready to learn how to get your Texas real estate license? The overall licensing process and education requirements are typically pretty similar across the U.S., but some of the specifics do change state-by-state. Here is a list of the basic requirements you will need to meet to become a real estate agent in Texas. 

    1. Meet the pre-qualifications
    2. File your license application.
    3. Get your fingerprints taken and pass your background check.
    4. Pass and submit your qualifying education.
    5. Take the exam.
    6. Find a sponsor.

1. Meet the pre-qualifications.

In Texas, you need to meet some pre-qualifications before you can start your real estate licensure journey. The Texas Real Estate Commission, or TREC, requires that you are at least 18 years old and a citizen of the United State. You’re also required to take pre-licensing coursework to help you prepare for the state licensing exam. 

All applicants are subject to a background check. Although it’s not required, you may also want to request a fitness determination before applying for a license. The fitness determination assesses each applicant on TREC’s qualifications for honesty, trustworthiness and integrity. Once you’ve filed your real estate license application, you have one year to the date to meet all the license requirements. 

2. File your application.

Texas offers an online option for filling out and submitting the application and fees for a real estate license. You may also opt to apply by mail using a paper application.

3. Get your fingerprints taken and pass your background check.

Texas law requires each real estate license applicant to undergo a background check. Under that law, your fingerprints are required to be on file with the Texas Department of Public Safety. On your application, be honest about any criminal convictions you’ve had. Depending on the crime, a conviction does not necessarily mean you won’t be approved for licensure. Being dishonest, however, is grounds for immediate denial of your application. You can expect delays if there is an investigation into your background history. 

4. Pass and submit your qualifying education.

Texas requires real estate agents to complete 180 classroom hours of qualifying real estate courses from a qualifying education provider. Course required include education on the following areas: 

  • Principles of Real Estate I (30 classroom hours)
  • Principles of Real Estate II (30 classroom hours)
  • Law of Agency (30 classroom hours)
  • Law of Contracts (30 classroom hours)
  • Promulgated Contract Forms (30 classroom hours)
  • Real Estate Finance (30 classroom hours)

Once you’ve completed your coursework, submit your coursework to TREC with your real estate licensing exam application (see below for more instructions). If you have completed any of the courses mentioned above through an accredited college or university, you can submit a course and instructor evaluation to submit and have your transcript evaluated. 

5. Take the real estate licensing exam.

Next, you’ll want to schedule your Texas real estate license and request a copy of the candidate handbook. The exam has 120 questions and is broken into two parts, a state and national section. Exams are administered by PearsonVUE, a third-party testing service company. 

Be prepared for the fees associated with your real estate licensing exam. The exam fee is $54, and there’s a Texas Real Estate License Application Fee of $205 and a Recovery Trust Fund fee of $10. You can also expect to pay around $39 for fingerprinting.

You must score 70% or higher on the real estate license exam to pass. If you do not pass, you may retake the exam twice. If you fail the test three times, additional credits will be required before you can retake the exam again. 

Assuming your full application is in order, the TREC will send your license document in the mail. Congratulations on becoming a new licensee!

I should point out that completing these steps does not make you a Texas Realtor, however. This is because “Realtor” is a copyrighted term owned by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR has its own list of requirements to join, and each member of NAR is bound to specific ethical standards. 

6. Select a sponsoring real estate broker.

Once you have passed the test and met the above requirements, you are issued an inactive license. To get the green light to be a real estate agent in the state of Texas, you need to find an active real estate broker to sponsor you. You can complete a sponsor request using this online service. Once a broker accepts your request, your license is upgraded to active, and you are free to work as a real estate agent in the state of Texas.

Even if the state didn’t require you to work through real estate brokerage services at first, I would still strongly recommend it to any new real estate agent. When I first started, I didn’t join a team, and I look back on that as one of my biggest mistakes. If I could give you one piece of advice on how to pick the right broker to work with, it’s this:  Make sure that the broker you’re considering matches your needs, and don’t worry about the other way around. 

Before you commit to anything, I recommend researching each brokerage you’re considering. Start with their reputation. Does this broker seem to be on solid ground with a good reputation in the state? Ask them about how much room you’ll have to grow at their brokerage. What kind of training program or further education do they offer? What is their commission structure like? Do they charge desk fees to work at the brokerage? If so, do they offer any technological advantages, such as a multiple listing service (MLS)?

Once you’ve found the right broker, your license can be updated to active status. Congratulations on earning the right to practice real estate! 

FAQs

Does Texas have license reciprocity with other states? 

Texas does not have reciprocity with other states. 

How much time does it take to get your real estate license? 

You can expect it to take four to six months to become a real estate agent in the state of Texas.

Is there anything aspiring real estate professionals can do to get an advantage? 

You bet there is! In fact, I’ve partnered with CE Shop to make sure of it. Through our partnership, we’ve created the training program that I wish I had when I first started my journey into real estate. With the Sell It Like Serhant: Pre-Licensing Sales Accelerator, you’re getting a full state-qualifying education combined with my own sales system that my team and I use at my brokerage. 

In addition to getting all the course hours you need from our state-approved program, this package includes plenty of unique benefits. You’ll have support from state-approved expert instructors and all the ebooks that you’ll need to succeed, including Principles of Real Estate Practice, The Real Estate Math Handbook, and my own “Quick Start Guide”. Each helps you prepare for your state exam with the latest information and tips. 

This course package also contains 10 progress exams, five practice exams (three state and two national), and flashcards to get you ready for test day. We’re so confident you’ll pass your exam the first time that Texas students even get our Pass or Don’t Pay guarantee. If you don’t pass your state exam on your first attempt, we’ll refund all your money! 

The good news doesn’t stop there, either. You’ll also get additional resources from SERHANT. to help you start achieving success from your first day in the business. Perhaps the most notable of these is my Sell It Like Serhant: Real Estate Core video course. This is a 42-video online course that teaches you the same techniques that I use with my team to generate leads, create markets, close deals, and much more. 

You already have the potential to get your license and build a successful real estate career inside you. Let us help you unlock that potential today! 

More from Sell It Like Serhant

For more real estate tips and tricks from Ryan and Sell It Like Serhant, follow us on Instagram or TikTok.

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The Quick Guide to SEO for Real Estate Websites

male real estate agent working on search engine optimization seo

The real estate industry is bursting at the seams with people trying to do the same thing as you – generate leads and make deals. You must leverage your personal brand to stand out online so you can differentiate yourself from the crowd of competition. There’s one behind-the-scenes tool every real estate agent needs to learn how to use that can get a steady stream of traffic flowing straight to their websites. Search engine optimization. Below, we explore the basics of SEO for real estate websites. 

What is Real Estate SEO? 

SEO stands for search engine optimization, and it’s the first step to getting search engines to work FOR you, even while you’re sleeping. But what IS it, and what does it do?

Search engine optimization refers to all the different ways you can help search engines index your business so it shows up when potential clients look online for someone to help them buy or sell a property. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 44 percent of people looking to purchase a home search online first when they begin thinking about buying or selling a home. That’s why YOU want to be at the top of search engine results!

Most of SEO takes place behind-the-scenes inside your website. If you’ve never given much thought to your SEO, now is the time, and you can start by performing a SEO audit. An SEO audit is a great way to discover how well your pages are performing and what you can do to make improvements. It is a simple way to measure your progress, and it gives you the insight you need to create a plan for success. 

Why should I use SEO for my real estate website? 

Every search engine does its job by going after content that matches the search keywords. Search engines use algorithms to identify the most reliable information for the keywords chosen. The algorithms are ever-changing and use different criteria to rank websites higher or lower on the search list. 

If you want your pages to rank high in a search for certain keywords, you must optimize your pages to target those keywords. Sites that have better SEO will rank higher in the search. If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to SEO for real estate websites, these seven handy tips can get you started in the right direction. 

Target the right keywords. 

Keywords largely determine how potential customers find you in an online search. If done correctly, optimizing your website for the right keywords will drive traffic to you. Knowing how to do effective keyword research is a skill you need to learn. If you don’t have time, you can always hire an SEO to tackle this for you.

Keywords are a great way to target potential clients interested in the services you provide. Including your location in your keywords is a great way to ensure you direct your marketing efforts to the right crowd and aren’t attracting the wrong type of customer. 

Leverage local SEO. 

Optimize your Google Business Profile so potential clients can find you with the click of a button. An optimized Google Business Profile will have the following elements filled out correctly:

  • Your exact location on a map
  • Opening hours
  • Website URL
  • Telephone number
  • Description of your business
  • Photos
  • Primary and secondary categories (real estate, commercial real estate, etc.)

The more places you have your name, phone number, address and website listed, the better. Consistency is key. 

Add schema markup. 

Schema markup is how you structure your website’s code to indicate to Google what format it takes. Essentially it makes your page more friendly to Google and increases the likelihood of being featured in the instant answers or the eye-catching snippets. 

Schema markup alerts Google to important information. It recognizes elements like address and phone number and uses it to check Google Business Profile for accurate information. Adding schema markup can increase click-through rate in searches 20-25 percent — That means you’ll get more eyes on your website and content!

Think mobile-first.

With a shift to online search engines for people looking to buy or sell property, it is no surprise that mobile searches are popular. Potential clients literally hold the power in their hands to find what they are looking for. 

If you want to appeal to mobile customers, who make up about 89% of new home shoppers, your website needs to run smoothly on smartphones and tablets. When it comes to mobile optimization, the key areas to focus on are:

  • Responsive Design
  • Page speed
  • Hosting speed
  • Homepage
  • Site navigation
  • Site search
  • Forms
  • Conversions
  • Usability

A responsive design automatically adjusts your site to fit any device’s screen, which is crucial for usability.

Don’t forget about speed. 

Google is not a fan of slow-loading sites, and neither are potential clients. 

If something takes forever to load, you will be more apt to click off of it to find something that will load faster. Google uses page speed as a ranking factor.

According to Google, if a page takes over three seconds to load, 53% of visitors will leave before the page loads. The good news is there are ways you can tune up your load speed to be lightning fast!

Lighthouse is a Google tool that gives you insight into the technical elements of SEO on your mobile website and your site’s usability. 

Remember internal linking.

Providing multiple links on your site helps group your resources and provides a logical path for users to find what they are looking for. Internal linking increases the likelihood that the user will stay on your site to see what they are looking for. This creates a positive user experience as well as good SEO.

Leverage Google Analytics and developer tools.

The best way to improve SEO for real estate websites is to leverage Google analytics. The metrics can tell you if your marketing is successful or if you need to restructure it. If you don’t have this function set up, prioritize it. 

Some important key performance indicators to track in your Google Analytics dashboard include organic visitors, direct traffic and organic goal conversions.

In addition to Google Analytics, you may also want to consider the following tools:

  • Google Search Console – This provides insight into your search performance’s technical SEO issues and gathers link data to check how Google sees your content. 
  • Ubersuggest – This SEO tool helps you find keyword ideas. 
  • Yoast identifies where your business appears and doesn’t appear on the web and helps optimize current listing information.
  • BrightLocal connects with thousands of local directories like Yelp, Google Maps, and Facebook. It is a great tool to use with Yoast to find additional local directories to submit your business information.

Final Thoughts

The real estate business is full of fierce competition, but there are still opportunities for you. Implementing a killer SEO strategy will push you past the competition and push traffic to you. To get potential clients camping out on your site, start with well-written content that contains the keywords they are looking for. 

But we get it, you’re a full-time real estate agent. And some of us don’t have time to focus on perfecting our website for SEO. That’s not a problem! There are plenty of agencies out there who specialize in JUST THAT. Contracting with an SEO agency can take all the worry off of your plate while still helping you generate more organic leads.

More from Sell It Like Serhant

Want help making your personal brand a well-respected, trustworthy source for real estate expertise? Check out the Ultimate Personal Brand Course for Real Estate Agents. You’ll learn the Serhant Brand Strategy System plus much more about how to create a good website that helps you show up and stand out.

For more tips and tricks on SEO for real estate websites from Ryan and Sell It Like Serhant, follow us on Instagram and Tiktok.

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How to Get Your Real Estate License in Montana

sell it like serhant pre licensing sales accelerator montana how to get your mt real estate license

As the job market bounces back post-pandemic and new business registration hit a record high in 2021, there’s a strong demand for housing in Montana today. This growing economy makes Montana a popular place for investors and homeowners.  Now is the perfect time to start considering a real estate career in Montana.

Whether it’s been your goal to become a real estate agent for a while now or you’re just now considering it as a new career option, the real estate business can offer you everything you want in a career. 

So, you want to know how to get your real estate license in Montana? The overall licensing process and education requirements are typically pretty similar across the U.S., although some of the specifics may change, depending on your home state. Let’s take a look at the list of basic requirements you’ll need to meet to become a licensed real estate salesperson in the state of Montana. 

  1. Meet the Montana State licensing prerequisites
  2. Complete 70 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education
  3. Pass the Montana Salesperson Real Estate Salesperson Exam
  4. Get a sponsoring broker
  5. Submit the Montana Real Estate License application

1. Meet the Montana state licensing prerequisites.

To start working towards a real estate license in Montana, you must be 18 years old and have at least a 10th grade education from an accredited high school. 

2. Complete 70 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education.  

The Montana Board of Realty Regulation (MBRR) requires all prospective real estate agents to complete 70 hours of pre-licensing education before taking the real estate licensing exam. In Montana, pre-licensing education includes information on contract law, listing agreements, real estate finance, closings, Montana laws and much more. 

Most pre-licensing courses in Montana can be taken online. Montana does not require the final pre-license exam to be supervised by a proctor. Note that you cannot utilize your book or notes during the pre-license exam. 

Please note that passing these education courses does not guarantee that you’ll pass your real estate exam. Take advantage of practice tests and review hours to make sure you’re fully prepared. Practice exams for the national portion of the test are available through PSI.

3. Schedule and pass the Montana Real Estate Salesperson Exam. 

PSI administers The Montana Real Estate Salesperson Exam. When you’re ready to take the exam, you can schedule an appointment from their website. Unlike your pre-licensing coursework, the final exam must be taken in person at an approved PSI testing facility. The fee to take the exam is $106 per attempt.

The Montana Real Estate Salesperson Exam contains  113 questions – 80 for the National section and 33 for the State section. You’ll be given four hours to complete the exam, with 150 minutes allotted for the National section and 90 minutes for the State section.

On your exam date, you’ll need to present two forms of identification. One must be a signature-bearing, valid form of government issued identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport that has your photograph. The second ID must have your signature and preprinted legal name, like a credit card, debit card, or wholesale membership card. NO personal items are allowed at testing centers, but you may have a basic-function calculator and scratch paper.

In order to pass the Montana Real Estate Salesperson Exam, you must obtain a score of at least 70%. You’ll be notified of your test results upon completion. If you did not pass, you’ll receive a scoring document with a breakdown of your score for review. But don’t worry, you’re allowed to retake the exam an unlimited number of times. The $106 exam fee applies each time. 

Completing these steps does not make you a Montana Realtor, however. This is because “Realtor” is a copyrighted term owned by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR has its own list of requirements to join, and each member of NAR is bound to specific ethical standards. 

4. Select your sponsoring broker. 

When you first receive your license document, you’ll have an inactive license status. In order to activate your license, you’ll need to find a sponsoring real estate broker to work under, so they can submit the license activation paperwork to the Montana Board of Realty Regulation. In Montana, a new salesperson doesn’t actually have the legal authority to complete real estate transactions on their own. A broker, however, operates their own real estate company, and can oversee salespeople in real estate activities. 

Even if the state didn’t require you to work through real estate brokerage services at first, I would still strongly recommend it to any new real estate agent. When I first started, I didn’t join a team, and I look back on that as one of my biggest mistakes. If I could give you one piece of advice on how to pick the right broker to work with, it’s this:  Make sure that the broker you’re considering matches your needs, and don’t worry about the other way around. 

I recommend researching each brokerage you’re considering before you commit to anything. Start with their reputation. Does this broker seem to be on solid ground with a good reputation in the state? Ask them about how much room you’ll have to grow at their brokerage. What kind of training program or further education do they offer? What is their commission structure like? Do they charge desk fees to work at the brokerage? If so, do they offer any technological advantages, such as a multiple listing service (MLS)?

Once you’ve found the right broker, your license can be updated to active status. Congratulations on earning the right to practice real estate! 

5. Submit a Montana Real Estate License application. 

Once you have successfully completed the pre-licensing education and real estate licensing exam, it’s time to gather up the documents you’ll need to submit in addition with your Montana Real Estate License application: 

  • Completion certificate for 70 hours of pre-licensing education 
  • Montana Real Estate Salesperson Exam results (state & national portions) 
  • A detailed explanation of any disciplinary actions taken against you, including documentation, from either federal agencies/programs or civil/criminal proceedings

You can submit your application to the MBRR completely online along with the $185 licensing fee. Applications are valid for one year.

Applications are reviewed within 5-10 business days, and you’ll receive an email from MBRR with a license document. If you have any questions at this point, you should contact MBRR at (406) 444-6880 or dlibsdhelp@mt.gov.

FAQs 

Does Montana have license reciprocity with other states? 

No. The state of Montana does not have real estate license reciprocity with any other states.

How much time does it take to get your real estate license? 

This is really a question for yourself more than it is for anyone else. How long do you want it to take? Driven students who treat their course hours like a job can complete real estate school within a few weeks. The longest process for them will likely be waiting on their fingerprints card. On average, most students take 3-6 months to complete everything. 

There are only two things about this that I can tell you for sure. The best time to start working toward your initial license is right now, and you have the ability to control your own pace after you start. 

Is there anything aspiring real estate professionals can do to get an advantage? 

You bet there is! In fact, I’ve created the training program that I wish I had when I first started my journey into real estate. With the Sell It Like Serhant: Pre-Licensing Accelerator, you’re getting a full state-qualifying education combined with my own sales system that my team and I use at my brokerage. 

In addition to getting all the course hours you need from our state-approved program, this package includes plenty of unique benefits. You’ll have support from state-approved expert instructors, the ebooks that you’ll need to succeed including Principles of Real Estate Practice, The Real Estate Math Handbook, and my own “Quick Start Guide”. Each helps you prepare for your state exam with the latest information and tips. 

Speaking of exam prep, this course package contains 10 progress exams, five practice exams (three state and two national) and flashcards to get you ready for test day. We’re so confident you’ll pass your exam the first time that Utah students even get our Pass or Don’t Pay guarantee. If you don’t pass your state exam on your first attempt, we’ll refund all your money! 

The good news doesn’t stop there, either. I’ll continue to help you out even after you’ve activated your license. How? This course package also includes a membership to additional resources from SERHANT. to help you start achieving success from your first day in the business. Perhaps the most notable of these is my Sell It Like Serhant: Real Estate Core video course. This is a 42-video online course that teaches you the same techniques that I use with my team to generate leads, create markets, close deals, and much more. 

More from Sell It Like Serhant

You already have the potential to get your license and build a successful real estate career inside you. Let us help you unlock that potential today! 

For more real estate tips and tricks from Ryan and Sell It Like Serhant, follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

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6 Top Tactics for Real Estate Direct Mail Marketing

woman receiving direct mail from real estate agent

Everybody loves getting something that’s personally addressed to them in the mail. Although not as commonly used in some industries, direct mail marketing can be an extremely effective tool for real estate agents. If you target the right prospects with the right message, direct mail marketing can help you grow your business.

How much does direct mail marketing cost?

Direct mail is a relatively inexpensive way to get your personal brand in front of a large number of people. The costs that go into a piece of direct mail include design, copy, purchasing a list, printing, and postage. 

If you have more money than time, you can hire a designer and a copywriter. Hiring a designer will cost around $100 or more, and a copywriter will cost anywhere from $100-$400. 

Next, you’ll need to have the mailing printed. There are several factors that can affect the cost of printing your direct mail: 

  • Quantity
  • Size
  • Paper quality
  • Page number/front & back
  • Black & white/color

Printing can cost $.03 to $2.00 per piece. Make sure to find a reputable printer and review all costs before selecting one.

You’ll also need a list to send the mail to. Free mailing lists can be found through existing clients, by trading with another business, or by building your own through public records. If you aren’t able to build your lists this way, you can expect to spend 20 to 30 cents per record.

Finally, you’ll have postage costs. Postage costs can vary depending on the number of items you’re sending, how much each piece weighs and current postage rates. Expect to pay $.25 to $2.00 per piece for postage. Postcards are a popular method for real estate direct mail marketing due to their size. They cost less to create and mail than other options.

Want to save some money? You can always design your direct mail piece yourself or use a template. This will cost you nothing but time. 

Why use direct mail marketing as a real estate agent?

Through direct mail, real estate agents can reach property owners who are looking to sell from any part of the country. Direct mail also provides real estate agents with a chance to connect with a massive amount of potential clients in their local area. 

Clients want to do business with someone who is considered a local expert, so when they keep seeing your name and your face associated with the local real estate market, they assume you are the expert in that area.

Who should I send direct mail to?

You should send direct mail to your target audience. That means if you sell luxury properties, send mail to higher-income families. Think about where they hang out, what their hobbies are, and what they spend money on. Figure out who your target audience is and make sure your message is designed specifically for them. The following groups of people should also be considered for your mailing list.

Absentee homeowners

Absentee homeowners are owners who own property they don’t use as their main dwelling. This can refer to investors, landlords, those who have inherited property or people who have moved and just haven’t been able to sell their property yet. This group is sometimes very anxious to sell their property and are a great group to sent direct mail to.

Probate

If a property owner hasn’t specified what they want done with their property when they die, the property goes into probate. When this happens, those who are left to clean it up and sell it are usually looking for the fastest and easiest way to get rid of the property. This audience is a great group to send direct mail to.

Eviction records

Landlords who have gone through the process of eviction might also be highly motivated to sell their property because having someone evicted is a lengthy and expensive process. Put landlords on your mailing list too.

Pre-foreclosures

Pre-foreclosure refers to the first phase of a legal proceeding that can end in a property being repossessed from a defaulted borrower. Reaching out to those facing foreclosure with possible solutions through direct mail marketing gives them hope they’ll be able to avoid foreclosure can bring new clients to your door.

Expired listings

Expired listings occur when a real estate deal doesn’t go through. There are a lot of different reasons for expired listings. Targeting expired listings through direct mail can generate a lot of leads.

Tax delinquency

Local governments can force a tax sale on a property that is tax delinquent. A well-timed direct mailing could encourage the owner of a tax delinquent property to sell before the tax sale occurs. Tax delinquent properties are public knowledge, and they aren’t hard to find.

Divorce

Assets are often divided as a result of a divorce, and parties involved sometimes need to sell their property as soon as possible. Most divorce records are public knowledge and can be found online.

6 tips for effective direct mail marketing in real estate

Understand the local market. Clients want to work with people who are experts in the local market who know the local area and the value of property. 

Be timely. Know what time of year people are looking to buy or sell so you can schedule your direct mailings to hit those target markets at the right time.

Make your mail useful. Provide real helpful tips and information for people. Include info on community or seasonal events.

Get creative. Consider adding a physical item to the mailing. A desk calendar or magnet is something that will keep your personal brand in front of them every day. Maybe you include a booklet with relevant resources. Sky’s the limit! 

Create a sense of urgency. There’s no time like the present to act. Make sure your recipients realize that by emphasizing limited time or seasonal opportunities. When your direct mailing creates a sense of urgency, your prospects will be motivated to act. 

Stand out. Make sure your direct mailing stands out. Use your personal branding in the design of the mail. Keeping your brand in front of prospective clients on a regular basis will allow you to stand out in the real estate industry. 

For more information on the power of direct mail marketing for real estate agents, check out our core course, Sell It Like Serhant.

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How to Get Your Real Estate License In Vermont

sell it like serhant pre licensing sales accelerator vermont

Welcome to Vermont, the land of maple syrup and Ben & Jerry’s. With its four-season weather that boasts beautiful foliage in the fall and snowy ski slopes all winter, Vermont is a great place for a family to settle down and buy a home. And you could be just the real estate agent they need. 

Whether it’s been your goal to become a real estate agent for a while now or you’re just now considering it as a new career option, the real estate business can offer you everything you want in a career. 

So, you want to know how to get your real estate license in Vermont? The overall licensing process and education requirements are typically pretty similar across the U.S., although some of the specifics may change, depending on your home state. Let’s take a look at the list of requirements you’ll need to meet to become a licensed real estate agent in the state of Vermont. 

  1. Meet the pre-qualifications.
  2. Complete 40 hours of approved VT pre-licensing education.
  3. Pass the course final exam.
  4. Start your Vermont real estate license application.
  5. Take and pass the state and national real estate licensing exams.
  6. Secure a sponsoring broker.
  7. Complete the VT Real Estate Salesperson application.

1. Meet the pre-qualifications. 

You must meet a few pre-qualifications from the Vermont Real Estate Commission (VREC) before you can start working on your license education. To start, all applicants must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED. You’ll also need to provide proof of residency as a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or legally present immigrant. 

Note:  Prior convictions must be reported via written explanation and submitted with all court documents. Withholding information on convictions may result in ineligibility.

2. Complete pre-licensing education.  

Once you determine your eligibility as an applicant, your real first step is to begin your pre-licensing education. Vermont requires all applicants to complete a 40-hour real estate education course that includes information on national and state regulations about real estate law, ownership, land use controls and regulations, disclosures, valuation, financing, titling, taxes and contracts. In Vermont, there are a number of online pre-licensing courses approved by VREC.

Please note that passing these education courses does not guarantee that you’ll pass your real estate exam. Take advantage of the testing and review hours to make sure you’re fully prepared.

3. Pass the pre-licensing course final exam. 

Once you’ve finished your real estate pre-licensing course, the next step is to pass your course final. Note that this is not the same thing as your actual license exam. Think of this final as a sort of practice exam you need to pass before you’re eligible to take the official real estate licensing exam. 

The pre-licensing course final exam must be passed with a minimum of 75%. You may retake the course as many times as necessary to pass. Your pre-licensing course will provide you with completion paperwork to send with your real estate license exam application. Pre-licensing education is valid for five years from the date of the passed final exam.

4. Start your Vermont real estate license application.

Once you’ve passed your pre-licensing course and are ready to take the Vermont real estate exam, you’ll need to visit the VRAC website, create a login account and start an application for a Vermont real estate license. You’ll need to meet all testing requirements, submit your pre-licensing education course completion certificate, and pay the non-refundable processing fee. 

5. Take and pass the state real estate licensing exam.

Once you’ve started your application, you’ll be given access to information about the Vermont state real estate licensing exam as part of the application.

The state portion of the real estate license exam covers Vermont-specific laws and practices and consists of 36 questions. You will have 90 minutes to complete this section of the exam. 

You must pass the state real estate licensing exam with a score of 70 percent or above, then submit your exam results to your application before moving on to the national exam.

6. Take and pass the national real estate licensing exam.

National real estate licensing exams are administered by PSI, a third-party professional testing agency. You’ll be able to schedule your national real estate license exam appointment by visiting the PSI website. 

The national portion of the exam covers general real estate practices and national laws, such as fair housing regulations, and national real estate licensing practice exams are available through PSI starting at $15. 

On your exam date, you’ll need to present two forms of valid identification, at least one of which must be a photo ID. NO personal items, food or beverages are allowed at testing centers, with the exception of a silent, non-programmable calculator. The national exam has 100 questions, and you’ll be given 2.5 hours to complete it. 

You will receive a pass/fail score report upon completion of your exam. You must receive a score of 70% or better in order to pass. Once you’ve taken and passed the national exam, you’ll upload proof into your licensing application. 

If you don’t pass, you are allowed to retest within six months of your initial attempt. You can contact PSI after 24 hours of your unsuccessful attempt to schedule another exam. You will have to cover the $110 exam fee for each attempt. Test results must be submitted within two years of the application start date. 

7. Secure a sponsoring broker. 

When you first receive your license document, you’ll have an inactive license status. In Vermont, a new salesperson doesn’t actually have the legal authority to complete real estate transactions on their own. In order to activate your license, you’ll need to find a real estate broker to work under, so they can fill out an Employment/Supervision form so you can submit it with your application.

Even if the state didn’t require you to work through real estate brokerage services at first, I would still strongly recommend it to any new real estate agent. When I first started, I didn’t join a team, and I look back on that as one of my biggest mistakes. If I could give you one piece of advice on how to pick the right broker to work with, it’s this:  Make sure that the broker you’re considering matches your needs, and don’t worry about the other way around. 

Before you commit to anything, I recommend researching each brokerage you’re considering. Start with their reputation. Does this broker seem to be on solid ground with a good reputation in the state? Ask them about how much room you’ll have to grow at their brokerage. What kind of training program or further education do they offer? What is their commission structure like? Do they charge desk fees to work at the brokerage? If so, do they offer any technological advantages, such as a multiple listing service (MLS)?

Once you’ve found the right broker, your license can be updated to active status. Congratulations on earning the right to practice real estate! 

8. Complete the VT real estate salesperson application.

The final step to getting your Vermont real estate license is to complete and submit the Vermont Real Estate Salesperson application you started in Step 4. Here’s a review of what you’ll need for a completed application:

  • Proof of high school diploma or GED
  • Pre-licensing course completion certificate
  • Proof of passing the state and national licensing exams
  • Completed Employment/Supervision form 
  • Pay the non-refundable application fee of $50

Your full license application must be submitted within two years of passing your state exam. After two years, your exam score expires. 

Applications are processed within five business days. Assuming your full application is in order, VREC will send your license document in the mail. Congratulations on becoming a new licensee! I should point out that completing these steps does not make you a Vermont Realtor, however. This is because “Realtor” is a copyrighted term owned by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). The NAR has a list of requirements to join, and each member of NAR is bound to specific ethical standards. 

FAQs 

Does Vermont have license reciprocity with other states? 

If you have been a licensed real estate agent in another state for three or more years, you may qualify to have the national real estate education requirements fulfilled by your previous education. Everyone who applies for a Vermont real estate license must take the Vermont state real estate exam. 

To apply for a Vermont real estate license as a licensed real estate agent from another state, follow these steps:

  1. Complete the online application and pay the non-refundable processing fee.
  2. Provide proof of your current license.
  3. Complete and upload your results from the Vermont state real estate licensing exam.

VREC will review your reciprocity request and let you know your next steps. 

How much time does it take to get your real estate license? 

This is really a question for yourself more than it is for anyone else. How long do you want it to take? Driven students who treat their course hours like a job can complete their education within a few weeks. The longest process for them will likely be waiting on their fingerprints card. It’s also not uncommon for some students to take three to six months to complete everything. 

There are only two things about this that I can tell you for sure. The best time to start working toward your initial license is right now, and you have the ability to control your own pace after you start. 

Is there anything aspiring real estate professionals can do to get an advantage? 

You bet there is! In fact, I’ve created the training program that I wish I had when I first started my journey into real estate. With the Sell It Like Serhant: Pre-Licensing Accelerator, you’re getting a full state-qualifying education combined with my own sales system that my team and I use at my brokerage. 

In addition to getting all the course hours you need from our state-approved program, this package includes plenty of unique benefits. You’ll have support from state-approved expert instructors, all the ebooks that you’ll need to succeed as well as my own “Quick Start Guide”. Each helps you prepare for your state exam with the latest information and tips. 

Speaking of exam prep, this course package contains 10 progress exams, five practice exams (three state and two national) and flashcards to get you ready for test day. We’re so confident you’ll pass your exam the first time that Utah students even get our Pass or Don’t Pay guarantee. If you don’t pass your state exam on your first attempt, we’ll refund all your money! 

The good news doesn’t stop there, either. I’ll continue to help you out even after you’ve activated your license. This course package also includes a membership to additional resources from SERHANT. to help you start achieving success from your first day in the business. Perhaps the most notable of these is my Sell It Like Serhant: Real Estate Core video course. This is a 42-video online course that teaches you the same techniques that I use with my team to generate leads, create markets, close deals, and much more. 

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You already have the potential to get your license and build a successful real estate career inside you. Let us help you unlock that potential today! 

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6 Commercial Real Estate Negotiation Tips

commercial real estate negotiation

Owning commercial property is an essential part of many business models. It can also be one of the biggest risks a business undertakes. When it comes to negotiating a commercial real estate deal, you better do your homework! Rushing into a purchase can create costly mistakes and unanticipated expenses.

In this article you’ll find six commercial real estate negotiation tips on how to skillfully work out a commercial real estate deal in a way that avoids mistakes and creates a win-win for everyone involved.

1. Understand your client’s needs.

Pull out the therapist’s couch for your client, look deep into their eyes, and ask them, “What do you need?” We’re kidding, but it IS essential to know all your client’s needs before you start looking at properties for them. Make sure you understand what their needs and specifications are for the following:

  • Building space
  • Building set up
  • Location
  • Accessibility for clients and employees
  • Parking availability
  • Public transit access
  • Shipping and receiving capabilities

Make a list of every single thing your client needs in a business property to be able to operate effectively and allow for business growth. There will probably be some things they want that aren’t absolutely necessary, so you’ll want to make a “wants” list too. 

2. Make note of your client’s budget.

Once you’re clear on what your client needs, it’s time to talk money. Work with your client to set a budget. If you’re not clear on their price range before starting negotiations, you could be dealing with a lot of frustration on pricing later on.

Knowing the budget upfront gives you negotiating power. You need to know the number you want to close at when going into negotiations so you don’t break the budget and go too high or lose out on properties because you bid too low and could have gone higher.

3. Do your due diligence.

Now that you understand everything your client needs and can afford, it is time to go to work inspecting the fundamentals of the property, the seller, financing options, and compliance obligations such as:

  • Local market quirks
  • Zoning restrictions
  • Potential liens
  • Possible encroachments on the property
  • Inspection of structures
  • Legacy liabilities legal and regulatory violations
  • Is the property largely financed
  • Environmental concerns
  • Rental history

Before starting negotiations, you need to become personally familiar with every aspect of the property. This will take a lot of research, but is crucial for avoiding unnecessary risks.

4. Know the market.

The commercial real estate market is always changing, and it’s essential to stay on top of market trends. Every market is different, so put on your detective hat and study the market in each property’s immediate area. Understanding the market cycles and indicators will help you and your client make a more informed investment decision.

5. Ask questions.

Once you identify potential properties that fit the specifications and the budget, it’s time to connect with sellers. When it comes to communicating with sellers, there’s one secret weapon that can help everyone win. Asking questions.

Create a conversation with the seller by asking questions. This will allow you to recognize their position and priorities. Understanding the priorities of both sides of the sale will help to position you and your client to receive the greatest outcome.

 Being professional with all parties involved will allow for smoother negotiations while creating a path forward for good future relationships.

6. Know how to close.

Set up the closing at the very beginning, and close consistently so it isn’t a big scary thing at the end. Successful commercial real estate closings don’t just happen. There are a lot of details involved, and all of the details matter. You must have a very specific plan and be prepared to respond to delays and other issues that can arise.  

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The outcome of commercial real estate negotiations depends largely on the skills of the negotiator. Having specific strategies and skills will allow you to become successful in the negotiating arena.

You can’t expect to be successful in commercial real estate negotiations if your strategy is to “just wing it” You can learn more about becoming a successful negotiator in our core course, Sell It Like Serhant.

For more commercial real estate negotiation tips and tricks from Ryan and Sell It Like Serhant, follow us on Instagram or subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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