Insights from a Seattle Realtor

What the Real Estate Licensing Exam Doesn't Teach You

As a real estate broker in Seattle, I often get asked about the process of getting a real estate license. Many people are curious about what the licensing exam entails and what skills they will learn from it. So today, I want to share my experience with you and shed some light on what the licensing exam really teaches you.

First and foremost, it's important to understand that the licensing exam is primarily focused on the legal aspects of real estate. You'll learn about the different types of property ownership, the legal requirements for buying and selling property, and the rules and regulations surrounding real estate transactions. While this knowledge is certainly important, it doesn't necessarily prepare you for the day-to-day operations of running a real estate business.

For example, the licensing exam won't teach you how to find clients or market yourself. It won't teach you how to fill out real estate contracts or how to negotiate with buyers and sellers. These are all skills that you'll need to learn on your own or through additional training.

In Washington State, getting your real estate license requires completing 90 hours of coursework and passing a test. Both the coursework and the test come at a cost, so it's important to be prepared both financially and mentally.

It's worth noting that the licensing exam also covers ethics in real estate. This is an important topic that all real estate professionals should be familiar with, as it covers issues like fair housing, conflicts of interest, and disclosure requirements.

Once you've passed the licensing exam and obtained your license, the real learning begins. This is where you'll start to learn the practical skills that are necessary for success as a real estate broker. Many people join teams or work for brokerages that offer training and support to help them build their skills and grow their business.

In fact, I started out on a real estate team myself and eventually worked my way up to leading my own team. I found that being part of a team was incredibly helpful for learning the ropes of the business and building my confidence as a broker.

If you're considering getting your real estate license, it's important to have a plan for how you'll continue to learn and grow once you've obtained it. Look for a brokerage or team that offers training and support, and be prepared to invest time and money into building your skills.

In conclusion, while the licensing exam is an important step in becoming a real estate broker, it doesn't necessarily prepare you for all aspects of running a successful real estate business. Make sure you have a plan for ongoing learning and support as you start your career in real estate. With the right training and support, you can build a thriving business and help your clients achieve their real estate goals.