Becoming a real estate broker in Georgia can be a fulfilling career choice for those with an interest in real estate, a strong work ethic, and the desire to help others buy and sell properties. Whether you are just starting your career in real estate or have been working as an agent for a few years, taking the next step and becoming a broker can open up new opportunities for growth and earning potential.
In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of becoming a real estate broker in Georgia, including the requirements you need to meet, courses you need to complete, and exams you need to pass. We’ll also provide you with tips on how to gain experience and stand out in this competitive field.
By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of what it takes to become a successful real estate broker in Georgia and be on your way to starting a rewarding new career in the industry.
Ready to take the first step towards becoming a real estate broker in Georgia? Keep reading to learn more!
Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you begin your journey towards becoming a successful real estate broker in Georgia, it’s important to ensure you meet the basic requirements. Education, age, and citizenship are the three primary requirements that you must fulfill. First, you must be at least 21 years of age and a legal resident of the United States. Second, you must have completed high school or obtained an equivalent degree. Lastly, you must not have any felony convictions, as this will prevent you from obtaining a real estate license in Georgia.
Additionally, it’s important to note that Georgia requires you to have a certain level of honesty and integrity in order to become a licensed real estate broker. You will need to undergo a criminal background check and submit your fingerprints to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. This is done to ensure that you do not have a criminal record or a history of dishonesty that would make you ineligible for a license.
Another basic requirement is that you must not be involved in any profession that would be considered a conflict of interest with real estate brokering. For example, if you are a lawyer or an appraiser, you cannot also be a real estate broker. This is to avoid any potential conflicts of interest that could arise.
Finally, you must complete a 60-hour Georgia pre-license course before you can take the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam. This course covers a variety of topics related to real estate brokering, including the laws and regulations governing the industry, ethics, and fair housing practices. Once you have completed this course, you will be one step closer to obtaining your Georgia real estate broker license.
Meeting these basic requirements is the first step towards achieving your goal of becoming a licensed real estate broker in Georgia. While these requirements may seem daunting, they are designed to ensure that only the most qualified and trustworthy individuals are able to practice real estate brokering in Georgia.
Educational Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent: To become a real estate broker in Georgia, you must have a high school diploma or GED. If you don’t have a diploma, you can take the General Education Development (GED) exam instead.
Real estate prelicensing education: Aspiring brokers in Georgia must complete a state-approved prelicensing course, consisting of 75 hours of instruction. These courses are offered in person, online, or via correspondence.
Post-licensing education: Once you obtain your real estate broker license, you’ll need to complete a 25-hour post-licensing course within the first year of licensure to remain active.
Continuing education: To renew your Georgia broker license, you must complete continuing education every four years. You’ll need to complete 36 hours of state-approved courses, including a 3-hour course on license law.
College degree: While not required to become a real estate broker in Georgia, a degree in a related field like business or finance can provide you with valuable knowledge and skills to help you succeed in your career.
In addition to these educational requirements, you must also meet other basic requirements to become a real estate broker in Georgia. Keep reading to learn more!
Age and Residency Requirements
You must be at least 21 years old to become a licensed real estate broker in Georgia. This is because you will be responsible for managing and supervising other agents, so the state requires a higher level of maturity and responsibility.
You must be a legal resident of Georgia to apply for a real estate broker license. If you are not currently a resident, you will need to establish residency in the state before applying.
If you have a criminal history, it is possible that you may be denied a real estate broker license in Georgia. The state examines each applicant’s criminal history on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the nature and severity of the offense, how long ago it occurred, and other relevant factors.
Georgia requires all real estate brokers to have a valid Social Security number in order to apply for a license. This is because the state uses the number to verify your identity and perform a background check.
You must also have a high school diploma or equivalent to become a licensed real estate broker in Georgia. While a college degree is not required, it may be beneficial in terms of gaining a competitive advantage and learning the skills needed to succeed in the industry.
Meeting the age, residency, and educational requirements is just the first step to becoming a licensed real estate broker in Georgia. You will also need to complete a state-approved prelicensing course, gain experience as a real estate agent, pass the Georgia real estate broker exam, and apply for your license. Keep reading to learn more about each of these steps in detail.
Criminal Background Check
As part of the licensing process to become a real estate broker in Georgia, you must pass a criminal background check. The background check will be conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
If you have been convicted of a felony or any crime involving moral turpitude, your application may be denied. However, you may still be eligible for a license if you can demonstrate evidence of rehabilitation or if you were granted a pardon.
Additionally, if you have any pending criminal charges, you must disclose them on your application. Failure to do so may result in the denial of your application.
It is important to note that a criminal record does not necessarily disqualify you from becoming a real estate broker in Georgia. However, it is important to be transparent about your criminal history and provide any necessary documentation to support your rehabilitation and fitness to hold a license.
Overall, the criminal background check is an important step in ensuring that licensed real estate brokers in Georgia meet the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in the industry.
Complete a State-Approved Prelicensing Course
Once you have met the basic requirements, the next step to becoming a real estate broker in Georgia is to complete a state-approved prelicensing course. These courses are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the licensing exam and work as a successful broker.
The Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) requires that you complete a minimum of 60 hours of coursework from a state-approved provider. The coursework will cover various topics such as real estate law, finance, contracts, and property management.
There are many options available to complete this requirement, including online courses, in-person classes, and hybrid options. Be sure to choose a course that is approved by the GREC and fits your learning style and schedule.
Keep in mind that the prelicensing course is just the first step in your real estate education. Continuing education courses are required to maintain your license, and you may also choose to pursue advanced certifications or designations to further your knowledge and expertise.
Completing a state-approved prelicensing course is an essential step towards becoming a real estate broker in Georgia. Make sure to choose a quality program that fits your needs and schedule, and commit to continuing your education throughout your career.
Research Georgia Real Estate Schools
Determine your preferred method of learning: Decide if you prefer in-person classes or online courses to complete your prelicensing education.
Look for state-approved schools: Make sure the school you choose is approved by the Georgia Real Estate Commission to offer prelicensing courses.
Check the curriculum: Ensure that the courses offered by the school cover all the required topics as specified by the Georgia Real Estate Commission.
Read reviews: Look for reviews or feedback from previous students to determine the quality of the school and its instructors.
Compare prices: Compare the prices of different schools to find the one that fits your budget and offers the best value for money.
Choosing the right school for your prelicensing education is crucial for your success as a real estate broker. Take your time to research and compare different options before making your final decision.
Choose a Course and Register
After researching Georgia real estate schools, it’s time to choose a prelicensing course that fits your needs. Most courses offer both online and in-person options.
Before registering, make sure to check the school’s accreditation and course content to ensure it meets Georgia Real Estate Commission’s requirements.
Once you’ve chosen a course, you can register online or by phone. You’ll need to provide personal information and pay the course fee, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
After registering, you’ll receive course materials and access to online resources, such as practice tests and study guides.
Make sure to take advantage of all available resources and study diligently to ensure success on the licensing exam.
Complete the Prelicensing Course
Once you’ve chosen a state-approved prelicensing course, you’ll need to complete it. The length of the course can vary, but it generally takes around 75 hours to finish. You can expect to learn about real estate principles, practices, contracts, finance, and appraisal.
Make sure to attend all classes and pay attention to the material. The course will culminate in a final exam that you’ll need to pass in order to move forward with your real estate broker license application.
If you have any questions or need additional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your instructor or school’s support staff.
After you’ve completed the prelicensing course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, which you’ll need to include with your broker license application.
Keep in mind that you’ll also need to renew your license periodically, which typically involves completing continuing education courses. Be sure to stay up-to-date with any licensing requirements to maintain your eligibility as a real estate broker in Georgia.
Gain Experience as a Real Estate Agent
Once you have completed your prelicensing course and passed the state exam, you can start gaining experience as a real estate agent. Here are some tips to get you started:
Find a broker to work for: As a new agent, it’s important to find a broker to work for who can provide guidance and mentorship. Look for a broker who has a good reputation in the industry and is willing to invest in your success.
Join professional organizations: Joining professional organizations such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and your local real estate board can provide you with access to training, networking opportunities, and industry updates.
Build your network: One of the most important aspects of being a successful real estate agent is building a strong network. Attend community events, join local groups, and leverage social media to connect with potential clients and build relationships.
Continue your education: Even after you’ve completed your prelicensing course, it’s important to continue your education to stay current on industry trends and regulations. Consider taking continuing education courses to expand your knowledge and skills.
Be patient: Building a successful real estate career takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Keep working hard, building relationships, and learning, and success will come.
Work as a Real Estate Agent
Build your network: As a new real estate agent, building your network is crucial to gaining leads and finding clients. Attend industry events, join local organizations, and reach out to friends and family to let them know about your new career.
Continuously learn: Real estate is an ever-evolving industry, and it’s important to stay up to date on market trends, changes in laws and regulations, and best practices. Attend workshops, read industry publications, and seek out advice from experienced agents.
Develop your marketing skills: Marketing is a key aspect of being a successful real estate agent. Learn how to create effective marketing materials, including social media posts, email newsletters, and direct mail pieces.
Be proactive: Don’t wait for clients to come to you. Be proactive in reaching out to potential clients, whether through cold calling, door knocking, or targeted advertising.
Provide excellent customer service: Reputation is everything in the real estate industry. Always provide exceptional customer service to your clients, and go above and beyond to ensure their satisfaction.
Working as a real estate agent can be a rewarding and lucrative career. By building your network, continuously learning, developing your marketing skills, being proactive, and providing excellent customer service, you can become a successful agent in the industry.
Join Professional Real Estate Organizations
Joining a professional real estate organization can be a great way to network with other agents and learn from industry experts. Some of the most popular organizations include the National Association of Realtors, the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council, and the Women’s Council of Realtors.
Membership in these organizations can provide access to valuable resources, such as continuing education courses, professional development opportunities, and industry research. They can also provide opportunities to meet potential clients and collaborate with other agents on deals.
When considering which organization to join, research the benefits of each and choose the one that aligns with your career goals and values. Membership fees and requirements can vary, so be sure to review the details before signing up.
Pass the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam
Step 1: Verify eligibility
Before registering for the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam, you must meet the eligibility requirements. You must be at least 21 years old, a legal US resident, and have at least three years of active real estate experience within the past five years.
Step 2: Complete a prelicensing course
Similar to the real estate agent exam, you must complete a state-approved prelicensing course before you can register for the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam. This course includes topics such as brokerage management, real estate law, and property valuation.
Step 3: Register for the exam
Once you have completed the prelicensing course, you can register for the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam through the PSI website. The exam fee is $121, and you must pass with a minimum score of 75%.
Step 4: Study and prepare for the exam
The Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam consists of two portions: a national section and a state-specific section. You can access the official candidate handbook on the PSI website, which includes information about the exam content and format.
Step 5: Take and pass the exam
On the day of the exam, you must bring two forms of identification and arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. Once you pass the exam, you can apply for your broker license with the Georgia Real Estate Commission.
Review Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam Content
Before taking the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the content that will be covered. The exam consists of two portions: the state portion and the national portion. The state portion includes topics such as Georgia real estate license law and commission rules and regulations, while the national portion covers areas such as property ownership, land use controls and regulations, and real estate finance. It’s recommended that you review and study these topics extensively before sitting for the exam.
There are several resources available to help you prepare for the exam, including study guides, practice exams, and online courses. These can help you gain a better understanding of the material and identify areas where you may need additional study.
Additionally, you may want to consider joining a study group or working with a tutor to further enhance your understanding of the material. This can be especially helpful if you struggle with certain topics or have difficulty studying on your own.
Prepare for the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam
Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Format: The Georgia real estate broker exam consists of two portions – the state section and the national section. Each section is timed for 150 minutes, and a passing score of 75% is required for each section. Knowing what to expect on test day can help reduce anxiety and improve your performance.
Take a Prep Course: Taking a Georgia real estate broker exam prep course can help you feel more confident on test day. These courses provide test-taking strategies, study materials, and practice exams that simulate the real exam experience. Consider enrolling in a prep course offered by a reputable real estate school or organization.
Review Key Topics: The Georgia real estate broker exam covers a broad range of topics, including property ownership, land use regulations, contracts, financing, and ethics. Reviewing these topics and taking practice exams can help you identify areas where you need to improve your knowledge and understanding.
Create a Study Plan: Developing a study plan can help you stay organized and focused while preparing for the Georgia real estate broker exam. Schedule regular study sessions and make a list of topics you need to review. Consider using flashcards, quizzes, and other study aids to reinforce your learning.
Stay Calm and Confident: Test day can be stressful, but it’s important to stay calm and confident. Take deep breaths, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest the night before the exam. Remember that you have prepared for this moment, and trust in your knowledge and abilities.
Take and Pass the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam
Once you feel confident in your knowledge of Georgia real estate, it’s time to take the broker exam. The Georgia Real Estate Commission administers the exam, which consists of a national portion and a state portion.
The national portion of the exam covers topics such as property ownership, financing, and brokerage operations, while the state portion focuses on Georgia-specific laws and regulations. You’ll need to pass both portions of the exam with a minimum score of 75%.
To prepare for the exam, you can take online practice exams and review study materials. It’s also important to arrive at the testing center well-rested and with all required materials, such as a government-issued ID and a calculator.
If you pass the exam, you’ll need to complete additional steps before becoming a licensed broker in Georgia, such as submitting your fingerprints for a background check and completing a post-licensing course.
Remember, passing the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam is an important step towards becoming a successful real estate broker. Stay focused and keep studying, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your career goals.
Apply for Your Georgia Real Estate Broker License
Submit your application and required documentation to the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC). Make sure to include your exam scores, proof of prelicensing education, and any other relevant materials.
Pay the application fee using the online payment portal or by mailing a check or money order to the GREC. The fee is non-refundable, so make sure you meet all the requirements before applying.
Complete a background check through the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This process may take several weeks, so it’s important to get started early.
Wait for approval from the GREC. Once your application and background check are complete, the GREC will review your materials and determine if you meet all the requirements for a broker license. This process may take several weeks to a few months.
Receive your license from the GREC. If your application is approved, the GREC will send your license to you by mail. Make sure to keep your license current by renewing it every four years and completing any required continuing education.
Submit Your Real Estate Broker License Application
Step 1: Visit the Georgia Real Estate Commission website and access the broker license application. Ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements and gather all the necessary documents.
Step 2: Complete the application, providing all the required information and documentation. Pay the applicable fees, including the license fee and any other fees required.
Step 3: Submit the completed application, along with all the necessary documents and fees, to the Georgia Real Estate Commission. The application will be reviewed, and you will be notified if any additional information or documentation is required.
Step 4: Once your application is approved, you will be issued your Georgia real estate broker license. You can now legally operate as a licensed real estate broker in the state of Georgia.
Step 5: Ensure that you maintain your license by completing any required continuing education courses and complying with all state regulations and laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility requirements to become a real estate broker in Georgia?
To become a real estate broker in Georgia, you must be at least 21 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a real estate salesperson license for at least three years.
What are the steps to becoming a real estate broker in Georgia?
The steps to becoming a real estate broker in Georgia include gaining experience as a real estate agent, passing the Georgia real estate broker exam, and submitting a real estate broker license application.
What is the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam?
The Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam is a test that evaluates your knowledge of Georgia real estate laws, regulations, and practices. The exam consists of a national section and a state section.
How can I prepare for the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam?
You can prepare for the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam by reviewing exam content, taking exam prep courses, studying exam materials, and taking practice exams.
What documents do I need to submit with my real estate broker license application in Georgia?
Along with your real estate broker license application, you will need to submit proof of your eligibility, your passing score on the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam, and any required fees.
How long does it take to become a real estate broker in Georgia?
The amount of time it takes to become a real estate broker in Georgia varies based on individual circumstances. However, it typically takes several years of experience as a real estate agent, plus time to prepare for and pass the Georgia Real Estate Broker Exam, and submit the required license application.