Getting Started
Just gettingstarted?
Leasing Agent V.S. Broker
One of the biggest questions when pursuing a real estate career is this: What’s the difference between a leasing agent and a broker?
To answer this question simply, agents and brokers have many of the same responsibilities, especially when it comes to their day-to-day. The biggest differences come down to licensing, experience, and responsibility.
Both agents and brokers experience benefits of their own. To make it easier for you to decide the path that’s right for you, here is a comparison chart:
Leasing Agent
Real Estate Broker
Pre-Licensing Course Requirement
15 Hours
75 Hours
Ability to Rent Property
Yes
Yes
Ability to Sell Property
No
Yes
Flexible Schedule
Yes
Yes
Ability to Work Independently
No, must work under a sponsoring brokerage.
No, you must work under a sponsoring brokerage for 2 years, after 2 years you can then obtain your managing broker license.
Pre-Licensing Price (with CREI)
$200 - $225
$550 - $625
State Exam Cost
$37
$58
Total Investment
$235 - $260
$609 - $684
The Takeaway
The the time and investment required for becoming a leasing agent is less than that of a broker, and becoming an agent is a great starting point for those who are just beginning their real estate career. Leasing agents can always become brokers in the future, and their experience gained working as an agent is invaluable. That being said, brokers invest more time and money, but also experience a greater return on their investment.
Still have questions? Visit our FAQs to learn more.
