Becoming a real estate agent in any state in the US is a process that requires proper planning. Typically, the process and the requirements are similar except for the number of pre-licensing course hours, which changes in every state.

For now, let us focus on how to acquire a New York real estate license. Whether you are a fresh graduate or are an experienced real estate agent who is planning a move to New York, it is good to understand this process. Fortunately, this detailed guide will help you to make the right decisions right away.

What Is a Real Estate License in New York?

This is a license given by the NYSDOS (New York State Department of State) to all real estate sales agents. It allows them to transact on behalf of their clients on top of marketing properties, brokering deals, and offering many other related services.

Importantly, the law requires that a licensed salesperson must work under a licensed brokerage firm instead of being independent for more accountability. If you are planning on acquiring a New York real estate license to start your career, then you have some steps to follow.

Be Financially Ready

The process of acquiring a New York real estate license has some associated costs including an educational program that satisfies the New York requirements. Therefore, it is good to research and set aside the finances that you need. These costs can vary significantly, so select an affordable educational program that is reputable and provides a quality education. For instance, you can find one for as low as $150 from a reliable provider.

There are affordable options even if you have other financial obligations. Regardless, it is good to be prepared financially to successfully acquire your NYC realtor license.

Prerequisites for a New York Real Estate License

Before we mention the more detailed qualifications such as the NY real estate exam, let us go over the prerequisites for the New York real estate license.

·         Minimum age – The NYSDOS requires you to be 18 years or above.

·         Permanent residency or US citizenship – It is clear that you should be a legal resident of the US.

·         Government documents – You should have a driver’s license or ID or social security number.

·         Clean police records – Applicants for a real estate salesperson license in NY should not have committed felonies.

Complete the 77-Hour State-Required Course

If you have read this far, you want to know how to get a New York real estate license. The step that takes the most time is the 77-hour real estate course. The options include online or in-person learning.

Online learning is more convenient, especially when you choose a reputable platform that is approved such as RealEstateU. Such a platform offers a variety of learning packages with varying pros.

The components of the real estate salesperson license in NY course entail the following.

·         Agency, license, and contract law units

·         Environmental issues and land use regulations

·         Commercial properties

·         Real estate finance and investments

·         Property management

The good thing about taking your New York real estate license course online from a reputable platform is that it saves money and time and brings the convenience of learning on the go. They allow access from all devices such as a computer or a mobile phone.

Such a platform may also provide guidelines on how to pass the NY real estate exam, which is your next important step. Therefore, take your course seriously, especially if you have selected a professional provider.

Book the State Exam and Pass

When you are ready, it is time to show the state that you deserve a New York real estate license. The passing mark for the real estate NYC exam is 70% and higher, which is easily attainable according to many people who have taken the course. There are about 75 questions with multiple choice answers that you should complete within 90 minutes.

The good thing is that many course providers have a guide on the NY real estate exam, which you can get through an appropriate package. However, you can still prepare using the coursework resources and still face the exam confidently.

Working Under a Sponsoring Broker

Ideally, the broker is supposed to sponsor you to get a New York real estate license. But practically, you are required to work under them to be mentored. But how do you know the best brokers in New York to work under? Most people focus on the reputation of the firm, not only to meet the state requirements for the license but also to learn the best real estate practices and mold their careers.

It is good to take time to search for the best real estate agency in your area from which to learn the latest real estate trends, marketing skills, negotiation skills, and more. You do not have to pay as there are many firms that are eager to accommodate apprentices in the industry.

Even after getting a New York real estate license, the brokerage firm might employ you, especially if you have already added value to their company or if they have an opening. This will further sharpen your skills until you have what it takes to start your own company.

Make the Application for the New York Real Estate License

The last step is to make the application for the New York real estate license. The NYSDOS has provided an easy process as long as you are qualified as we have discussed. After receiving your application and all the supporting documents, the department will review them and issue the real estate salesperson license in NY. It is highly likely your application will be approved, especially if you filled out the forms with truthful information and supplied the correct documents. However, it is important to be careful as you make the application.

This detailed guide on how to become a realtor in New York shows that the process requires commitment and patience. Taking the 77-hour course and passing the real estate license exam in NY are the two major steps, followed by finding a sponsoring broker. So, plan well before approaching this process, and if need be, consult widely.

Corofy's 6-step guide helps you understand how to get your New York City real estate license. It explains meeting state requirements, passing your exam, and includes practical advice and important information. This guide is helpful for future agents, making sure you're ready for each part of the process.