Do you want to work in a dynamic, high-growth industry where opportunities for earnings are aplenty and you can be independent?
If yes, working in California real estate might be a great profession you can pursue, especially if you crave financial independence and professional autonomy.
To work as a real estate agent, you need to obtain a California real estate license which is a mandatory regulatory requirement for professionals.
Thanks to the growing population, pleasant weather, and strong job outlook, California offers exciting opportunities for homebuyers, retirees, skilled workers and real estate investors.
The demand for general as well as luxury housing in California continues to grow steadily which means that if you enter the market soon, you can become financially secure and ready to reap the benefits of this amazing career.
However, to do so, you need to prepare by getting your license first as getting a license is not only a regulatory requirement, but an essential step in gaining the trust of clients.
Getting a license might seem like an overwhelming task, especially if you are a complete beginner, however, it is an essential step in becoming a successful professional.
Whether you want to work part-time or as a full-time real estate agent, you will only be legally allowed to earn commissions if you hold a valid salesperson license in CA.
Now if you are ready to embark on the journey to become licensed but are not sure how to proceed, this article will outline why you must invest in getting your license.
If you are sincere and determined, you can complete the California real estate license requirements within a few months only and start an exciting and rewarding career.
Benefits of becoming a licensed professional in California
Many beginners often wonder why getting a license is so important to becoming a successful real estate professional.
The most important reason is regulatory and legal compliance as California law allows only licensed professionals to work with clients and earn commissions via real estate deals.
Whether you are looking at real estate as a profitable side income or a long-term career path, you must obtain a valid license first to make the most of the opportunity.
If you are on the fence about whether or not to obtain a license, here are some of the pros of working as a licensed real estate agent in California.
High earning potential
One of the most important reasons why people choose real estate as a career is the ability to earn a six-figure income without having to work in a conventional nine-to-five grind.
Imagine working with residential and luxury clients in California and helping them achieve their goals and earning five to six percent commissions on every deal.
Whether you choose to work on a part-time or a full-time basis, you can earn as much money as you can without any upper limit or upper cap.
Imagine if you can help close a real estate deal worth $2 million for a luxury home in California, you can make around $50K for yourself.
Opportunities for networking
If you want to work in a dynamic industry where you can build a vast professional network, a career as a real estate agent in CA can help you achieve this.
Real estate agents work with brokers, property appraisers, home inspectors, loan officers, attorneys, and underwriters and are liaisons with them to get the job done.
In this profession, you will be meeting with peers, industry professionals, trainees and experts who will be a part of your professional network.
With a CA salesperson license, you can join members-only communities, and exclusive groups and be a part of a growing network of professionals.
Working as a real estate agent can give you opportunities to meet new people and forge new connections which can be beneficial for a successful career.
Lower barrier to entry
To work as a real estate agent in California, you do not need to have any advanced diploma or spend years completing school.
All you need to get started is a basic high school diploma and pre-licensing education which is enough to qualify for the job.
In California, you can become a licensed real estate agent by completing 135 hours of state-approved prelicensing education from a college, school or course provider.
Compared to other professions with a six-figure income potential, joining real estate is easier for anyone who can meet the qualifying education requirements.
Once you successfully complete pre-license education acquire the knowledge and pass the salesperson license exam, you will obtain your license.
Basic eligibility requirements for a real estate license
In California, aspiring real estate professionals must meet the minimum qualifying requirements to become eligible for a salesperson’s or a broker’s license.
Established by the Department of Real Estate (DRE) in California, these are:
- You must be at least 18 years of age or older
- You must be a legal resident of the state of California
- You must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
If you fulfill the above requirements, you will be eligible to complete the next set of steps.
