To start a real estate career, you must complete a state approved pre licensing course, meet your state’s licensing requirements, pass the real estate exam, and apply for your real estate license through your real estate commission. Most students choose flexible learning options—such as self paced online real estate courses, livestream courses, or in person classes—based on their schedule and learning style. After becoming licensed, continuing education is required to maintain your license and avoid penalties that could automatically revoke your status. Choosing the right realtor schooling program with strong exam prep, expert instruction, and industry veterans can significantly improve your chances of passing on the first try and building long-term success.
For more details, keep reading.
Realtor schooling refers to the formal real estate education required before you can legally work as a real estate agent or sales agent. Every state has specific educational requirements set by its real estate commission.
What Is a Pre Licensing Course?
A pre licensing course is the required course work you must complete before sitting for the real estate exam. This pre licensing education typically covers:
Real estate law and legal responsibilities
Contracts and property disclosures
Ethics and the national association standards
Agency relationships
Financing basics
Property valuation
Selling and marketing fundamentals
These state approved courses are designed to ensure future real estate professionals understand how to operate legally and ethically in the market.
Meeting Licensing Requirements
Each state has different licensing requirements, but most require:
Completion of a minimum number of education hours
Passing the real estate exam
Submitting fingerprints or background checks
Applying through the state real estate commission
Once you pass and are approved, you receive your real estate license and can work under a licensed real estate broker.
Choosing the Right Real Estate Schools and Course Packages
Not all real estate schools offer the same quality of training. Choosing the right education provider can directly affect your ability to pass the exam and succeed in your new career.
Comparing Flexible Learning Options
Modern real estate education offers several flexible learning options:
Self paced online courses
Livestream courses with scheduled instruction
In person classroom training
Hybrid course packages
Self paced courses allow students to complete lessons at their own pace, making them ideal for those balancing work, family, or other commitments.
Livestream courses offer expert instruction in real time while allowing students to learn from home. These options combine flexibility with interaction.
In person classes provide face-to-face guidance from local experts and may be ideal for students who prefer a structured classroom environment.
Your learning style should guide your decision.
Colibri Real Estate and Other Providers
Colibri Real Estate is one example of an online provider offering pre licensing and continuing education courses. Many schools also advertise a pay guarantee, meaning they refund tuition if you do not pass the exam on the first try (subject to terms).
Look for programs that include:
Comprehensive exam prep
Practice tests
Support from industry experts
Clear schedule outlines
Access to tools and study materials
Quality training increases your chances of success.
Preparing for the Real Estate Exam
Passing the real estate exam is one of the most important milestones in your real estate career.
What the Real Estate Exam Covers
The exam typically tests:
National real estate principles
State-specific regulations
Legal compliance
Contracts and disclosures
Ethical practices
Strong exam prep programs help students understand both national and state-specific material.
Study Strategies That Work
To pass on the first try, consider the following strategies:
Complete all required course work
Review practice exams multiple times
Create a structured study schedule
Focus on weaker topics
Use exam prep tools provided by your school
Experienced real estate professionals often emphasize repetition and understanding concepts rather than memorization alone.
Students who commit to consistent study are more likely to succeed.
Building a Real Estate Career After Licensing
Once you are licensed, the real work begins.
Working Under a Real Estate Broker
New agents must typically work under a licensed broker. A real estate broker supervises transactions and ensures compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
Over time, agents may choose to pursue a broker's license to operate independently.
Becoming Your Own Boss
Many people enter realtor schooling because they want to be their own boss. A real estate career offers:
Flexible schedule control
Unlimited income potential
Direct interaction with buyers and clients
Opportunity to build long-term relationships
However, success requires dedication, marketing skills, and ongoing education.
If you're planning to move to Western New York, or if you’re already a local resident, understanding how to work with buyers and navigate the real estate market is just one part of your life in Western New York. For more helpful tips on buying or selling property, be sure to check out our latest blog on Carol Klein WNY Homes, where we cover local housing trends, market updates, and guidance for homeowners and future real estate professionals.
Developing Skills for Long-Term Success
To maintain and grow your career, focus on:
Communication skills
Negotiation training
Market knowledge
Client service
Staying compliant with legal updates
Real estate professionals who stay informed about news, market shifts, and industry changes are better positioned to succeed.
Agents who invest in continued training and skill development are more likely to build a strong community reputation and generate consistent income.
