You’re looking at your next career move, and becoming a real estate agent looks like a smart choice for your future. What do you need to get started? Unlike many other career fields, becoming a real estate agent or broker doesn’t require hundreds of hours in a classroom, but you will need to complete coursework to obtain state certification before you can start selling properties. Here’s how to become a real estate agent in Chicago–in three simple steps:
1. Meet basic qualifications
The qualifications to apply for a real estate license vary from state to state, but the Illinois requirements are simple and straightforward. You must be at least 21 years old and be able to prove that you either graduated from high school or passed the GED exam.
2. Take a licensure course
You’ll need to complete 90 hours of study before you can take the exam to become a licensed realtor/broker. These classes are available both online and in a classroom environment, so you have some flexibility to choose the type of schedule that would work best for you. Hard copies of a home study version of the course are also available. After completing the course, you’ll need to take a proctored exam certifying that you’ve passed.
3. Take the state certification exam
During that 90-hour course, you will have received all the information you need to take the state certification exam, your final step in becoming a licensed Illinois real estate agent. Now, in order to practice, you’ll need to apply for your license with a listed supporting real estate broker and submit your application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. That’s all there is to it! By this point, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in real estate–and you’ll have the knowledge base you need to be successful.
If you have any questions regarding the steps to become a real estate agent in Chicago, contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
