A real estate agent, realtor or brokerage company is an individual who represents buyers or sellers of residential or commercial real estate. While an agent can work on his/her own, most often an agent will work under an independent broker to represent multiple clients. In the majority of states, it is the responsibility of the brokerage company to perform all acts and responsibilities associated with a real estate transaction. In some states, a brokerage company may be responsible for acting as the fiduciary and ensuring that all appropriate documents are signed and all necessary disclosures are made.
There are many different levels of Real Estate Agents in most states including: Associate Brokers, Broker Examiners and Registered Agents. Most states require a real estate agent to be at least 18 years of age. Many states also require an associate broker to be insured or bonded and pass a licensing exam in order to become an active real estate broker in that state. To become a registered agent, states generally require at least two years of business experience, a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field and successfully passing a licensing exam.
Each state will have its own set of laws governing real estate transactions, including the duties of a real estate agent. While many agents work by themselves, others will work for a number of different companies under one broker firm. If you are in the process of buying or selling a home, it is important to make sure that your agent is fully licensed and able to conduct a real estate transaction in accordance with the law. Every state will have its own unique rules and regulations regarding agents, so it is very important to read up on your state’s requirements.
To become a real estate agent in any state, one must meet a number of requirements including having a high school diploma or the equivalent, as well as successfully completing a GED or equivalent education program. Those interested in this lucrative but competitive field should also be prepared to obtain an associate’s degree as a way to improve their chances of being hired by an agency. Those who already have a bachelor’s degree in a related field may also consider pursuing a higher degree to increase their qualifications and increase their earning potentials.
In addition to the educational requirements, there are also a number of tests required of agents who wish to become registered brokers. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) conducts background checks and pre-screened examinations in order to ensure that the people being considered as real estate agents have the knowledge necessary to serve effectively as such. As most buyers and sellers expect, these tests often come as quite the surprise.
NAR conducts both NAR pre-screened and NAR certified examinations every year. These exams are nationally recognized and provide the real estate agents nationwide with increased credibility. For agents who pass the certification exam, they will then be awarded the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Associate’s in Real Estate title. This credential is good for two years from the date of issuance and must be renewed every two years. Because of the important position these professionals hold, it is important to consider the steps above if you are planning to become a real estate agent.
A real estate agent, realtor or brokerage firm is a person who deals in the selling or buying of property or real estate. An agent can work alone, but most often an agent tends to work under a licensed brokerage to represent different clients. There are some areas that an agent cannot work in because they are not qualified to do those types of transactions. Most agents work by representing sellers and buyers of real estate whether they are buying or selling. There are a variety of ways that an agent works such as representing buyers or sellers and finding the right properties for the right people. There are many things that go into becoming a real estate agent and the education a person gets can make a big difference in their ability to succeed.
The first step in becoming a real estate agent is receiving a license from their state to do so. Each state has its own form of licensing, which must be completed and then submitted to the state. Learning what the real estate laws of each state are can help potential agents know what they need to be educated on before applying. In some cases licensing can be granted in as little as 7 days. There are many different states that will have different requirements. Each of the states will have different educational requirements as well.
Once a license has been received, the individual will need to go through training. In order to learn the different ways to sell or buy real estate agents will have to attend courses in the various aspects of the real estate market. There are many different programs available. These programs can be obtained at colleges, community colleges, trade schools and home schooling programs.
If someone wishes to break into the field and they are not ready to attend a college or trade school then they can pursue an online program that will show them the information they need to know in order to become a real estate agent in no time at all. Many local agencies will help individuals find the right course to suit their particular needs. By taking the time to learn about the local market the person will be prepared to handle any situation that may come their way.
Another choice for agents is to work as a dual agency. This means working as a buyer’s agent while also working as a seller’s agent. An agent can work as a buyer’s agent when they are looking to buy a home but will continue to handle all of the details of selling the house as an independent agent. The same can be said for a seller who has decided that they would like to go with the option to sell as a buyer and will hold all of the rights to the property. This is often a great option for someone who wants to be involved with both processes but does not have the time to sit in a classroom or a conference room.
Choosing to work as a dual agency gives every real estate broker the opportunity to work with two distinct clients at any one time. This is an excellent way for them to build a solid client base and build a stellar reputation for themselves in the marketplace. In order to decide which option is the best for each brokerage, it is important for each individual to take the time to understand how the job really works.
