A career in real estate has many benefits and could offer you flexibility and independence. You must take several steps before showing houses and ordering signs. Keep reading to learn how to become a real estate agent in Alabama and how a title company in Huntsville plays into everything.
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. By joining your local Association of Realtors, you might also consider becoming a Realtor.
Common Questions About a Career in Real Estate
Before you make any official moves, you may have questions about the job and the industry, which is normal. Here are some common questions and answers about a career in real estate in Alabama:
- How much can I make? This depends on several factors. Will you sell more homes in luxury neighborhoods, new construction, or rural areas? What are the current market trends? The average salary for real estate agents in Alabama is slightly over $82,000 annually.
- How much will I invest in becoming a real estate agent? The biggest variation in the cost here is the tuition fees of the real estate school you attend. The state board has set fees for fingerprinting, background checks, and exam fees.
- What do I need before I start the courses? Currently, in Alabama, the requirements to become a real estate agent are as follows:
- Be 19 years old or older
- Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or legally present in the U.S.
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Have no felonies or be convicted of a crime involving “moral turpitude.”
- Not having a real estate license revoked or rejected in another state in the past two years.
Boundary Title: Your Partner in Your Real Estate Career
Congratulations on your new career move! Making a career change is a huge decision and one that should not be taken lightly. Now that you’ve done your research, you’re on your way to a 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 North Alabama, give the professionals at Boundary Title a call. Our team has years of experience and can walk you through the process to help you be the best agent for your clients. Call us today at (256) 291- 9720 or contact us online!