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What degrees do real estate agents need if any?

What degrees do real estate agents need? Should they go to college?

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Robert’s Answer

Real estate agents don't need a degree, thus the desirability of getting into the field. I'm a broker and would strongly suggest a business degree that will help supplement business knowledge that can help an agent.

I started with an undergrad real estate degree which was a good start. I then got a finance grad degree which was great.
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Dave’s Answer

To be a real estate agent; you need to take a real estate exam. However; many college degrees can benefit you. Finance, management, IT, etc.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Liz,

In the United States, a specific degree isn't a must-have for practicing as a real estate agent. However, having a college degree can give a significant boost to those aiming for a real estate career.

1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: The first step towards becoming a real estate agent is to have a high school diploma or something similar. This is the least you need education-wise to kick-start your journey in the field.

2. Real Estate Courses: These aren't compulsory, but they can equip budding agents with the necessary knowledge and skills for a successful real estate career. These courses delve into various subjects like real estate law, finance, contracts, property management, and more.

3. College Degree: Aiming for a college degree, particularly in related areas like business, finance, marketing, or real estate can give you a leg up in the competition. A degree can help you gain a deeper grasp of critical concepts and principles pertinent to the real estate industry.

4. Continuing Education: Even after earning their real estate licenses, professionals often need to keep up with ongoing education courses. These courses help them stay in the loop about the latest industry trends, laws, and regulations.

In conclusion, although there's no hard and fast rule about degrees for real estate agents, getting a college degree or relevant education can significantly enhance your knowledge and skills in the real estate field.

Top 3 Credible Sources Used:

National Association of Realtors (NAR): The NAR is a highly respected body in the real estate industry, offering valuable insights and resources for field professionals.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides extensive data and information on various jobs, including real estate agents. It's a great resource for understanding the educational requirements and job prospects in the industry.

Real Estate Express: As a top provider of online real estate education, Real Estate Express provides courses and resources widely used by those looking to start or progress their real estate careers.

These sources were key in providing accurate and current information on the educational requirements for real estate agents.

Stay blessed,
JC.
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Cheri’s Answer

Hi Liz,

Full disclosure, I am not a real estate agent. The advice given to you by Robert and Dave is sound. If you wish to get better informed as to the price and time commitment of getting licensed in VA as a real estate agent, this link for online schools may help you with that: https://www.agentadvice.com/school/virginia/ . From what I can find, VA requires you submit proof of education in order to take your real estate exam.

The process is described in detail via this link: https://staterequirement.com/real-estate/virginia-real-estate-license/#:~:text=You%20can%20register%20to%20take%20your%20exam%20on,on%20How%20to%20Pass%20the%20Real%20Estate%20Exam.

Also see the VA Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation's website: https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/Real-Estate/

There may also be different levels. Some states allow you to get certified or licensed as a "referral agent" which is less of monetary and time commitment and allows an introduction into the field before you fully "buy in". To better understand your options, maybe call/email a few real estate agencies to ask for details on whether or not they affiliate with referral agents and their requirements for becoming one.

PSI is VA's Real Estate examiner. PSI is also a life insurance examiner. If you cannot afford to immediately become a real estate agent, you may have some luck signing up relatives, friends, coworkers, and others you already know (aka-your "warm market") as a licensed life insurance agent in order to save the money you need to pursue your dreams of real estate. This or another less expensive route to more quickly saving the money you need could be a "Plan B" since you can still work a regular job while you sign up your warm market or otherwise supplement your income.

I hope this answer gives you something to think about and some of the information you had hoped to find.

Cheri recommends the following next steps:

https://www.agentadvice.com/school/virginia/
https://staterequirement.com/real-estate/virginia-real-estate-license/#:~:text=You%20can%20register%20to%20take%20your%20exam%20on,on%20How%20to%20Pass%20the%20Real%20Estate%20Exam
https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/Real-Estate/
Free mini-diagnostic tests at bottom of page: https://test-takers.psiexams.com/vare
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