A career in real estate has many benefits and could offer you flexibility and independence. Real estate could be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a career that offers flexibility, independence, and numerous benefits. However, before you can start ordering signs, showing houses, and ordering working with a title company in Birmingham, you must take several essential steps.
How To Become A Real Estate Agent in Alabama
The process of becoming a licensed real estate agent in Alabama can more or less be broken down into six steps:
-
- Complete the required classes: Alabama requires a minimum of 60 hours of education at a licensed institution before you can sit for the exam.
- Pass the licensing exam: You’ll have six months after you complete the courses to sit for the exam. Currently, the exam has 140 questions- 40 about state laws and 100 about national or generic real estate practices. You’ll need a 70% or higher score to pass the exam, but don’t worry- plenty of practice resources are available.
- Find a broker to work with: Alabama real estate law mandates that agents practice under a broker. Your broker will serve as a mentor and your go-to questions regarding deals. You’ll want to interview a few and find one you fit well with. You might also consider what properties they typically sell and the CE courses they offer.
- Submit your application: You’ll need to submit your contact information, proof of course completion, and exam pass rate to the State Real Estate Commission. They will also perform a background check and take fingerprints.
- Complete post-license or continuing education credits: Alabama requires 15 hours of CE every two years. Of those 15 hours, three must be risk-management courses, and 12 are other courses approved by the commission. You’ll have until September 30, the even-numbered year, and some courses may be completed online.
Now that you’re licensed, it’s time to start building a client base, learning about the market in your city, and getting involved in your office. You might also consider becoming a Realtor by joining your local Association of Realtors.
Common Questions About a Career in Real Estate
Embarking on a career in real estate can be exciting, but it’s common to have questions about the job and the industry before taking the plunge. Here are some common questions and answers for those considering a career in real estate in Alabama.
One of the most frequently asked questions is how much money can be made as a real estate agent in Alabama. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the neighborhoods and markets in which you work and the current trends in the real estate industry. The average salary for a real estate agent in Alabama is around $82,000 per year, but this can vary significantly.
Another important consideration for those interested in becoming a real estate agent is the cost of obtaining a license. The cost varies depending on the school you attend for your coursework and fees for fingerprinting, background checks, and exams set by the state board.
Before beginning the courses required to become a real estate agent in Alabama, there are certain prerequisites that must be met. These include being at least 19 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, and being a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or legally present in the U.S. Additionally, candidates must have no felonies or convictions involving “moral turpitude” and must not have had a real estate license revoked or rejected in another state within the past two years.
Crest Title: Your Partner in Real Estate
Congratulations on taking the exciting step of changing careers! We understand that this is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and planning. However, now that you’ve done your research and made the commitment, you’re well on your way to a fulfilling and successful career.
When you’re looking for a partner in ordering title searches for your next residential or commercial sale or to help a client with a refinance in Alabama, contact the Crest Title professionals.