With a 67.5 percent home ownership rate according to the latest census information and with a growing population, the Georgia housing market is thriving. Cities such as Atlanta and Savannah attract new residents looking for a metropolitan lifestyle in a not-so-big city. These people have to live somewhere, and they need a real estate agent to help them find the right place.
There is no reason why that agent couldn’t be you. Let a Georgia real estate school teach you the ins and outs of this productive industry.
Getting the Education
The Georgia Real Estate Commission and Appraisers Board approves schools awarding real estate licenses and recognizes licensing for salespersons, associate brokers, brokers and community association managers. Each classification must meet certain requirements before being licensed.
Georgia real estate schools can help you in the areas of pre-license education, post-license education and continuing education. The following are requirements for three levels of real estate professionals:
- Salesperson
To apply for this license, you must complete a 75-hour pre-licensing salesperson course or six semester (10 quarter) hours in real estate courses at an accredited college or university. During the first year of licensure, you will need to complete a 25-hour post-license course. Then, during each four-year licensing period, you must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education courses.
- Broker/Associate Broker
To be eligible for a broker’s license, you will need to verify you have three years of active licensure in Georgia or another state. You must then complete a 60-hour pre-licensing course or other real estate courses at an accredited college or university. Brokers and associate brokers must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education classes during their four-year licensing period.
- Community Association Manager
A Community Association Manager’s license can be obtained after completing a 25-hour pre-licensing course or two semester (four quarter) hours in real estate courses at an accredited college or university. Again, at least 24 hours of continuing education courses should be completed during the four-year licensing period.
More Than Education
Seeking a career in real estate can be a wise investment toward your future. It is important to remember, however, that education is not the only thing you need to be successful. There are also some personal characteristics you should possess. You will need to have a penchant for selling, a strong work ethic and a patient mindset. The money may not come quickly at first, but if you have the determination to get through slow times, you will reap the benefits of your hard work. Evaluate yourself, and then evaluate your school options.
With over 200 schools located in 68 cities throughout the state, you will have no problem finding a Georgia real estate school near you. In addition to the bricks-and-mortar schools, several online programs offer classes in real estate training and licensing for the state of Georgia. No matter which path you take, you will be glad you decided to become a real estate agent.
By Karen Perkins