Real Estate License

A real estate license is required by most individuals who seek a career in the real estate industry. An example of an exception to this rule would be a loan officer (who may practice mortgages under the license of a broker).

Real estate appraiser jobs are a very exciting and specialized field within the real estate industry. The following represent different levels of appraisers, while requiring a real estate license:

• Registered Trainee Appraiser
• State Certified Residential Appraiser
• State Certified General Appraiser

Mortgage brokers must pass a state exam to become licensed professionals. In Florida, this exam covers topics such as the Florida Fair Lending Act, federal lending and housing regulations, the Patriot Act, Fannie Mae underwriting guidelines, and other real estate law. A respective mortgage broker must also have general knowledge on surveys and deeds. After gaining a license, 14 hours of continuing education classes must be taken during the next two years.

Complimentary Request for Appraisal Form (PDF Format)

"All applicants for the Mortgage Broker License must provide full legally-provided fingerprints for submission to either the Federal Bureau of Investigation or the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Any actions pending that involve dishonest dealing, fraud, or acts of moral turpitude will be grounds for denial of the license."

Real estate agents or sales associates are the most popular individuals in a real estate transaction. They must also hold a real estate license. To become a realtor, one must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalency (if you have a criminal background, there will be explaining to do). There is also mandatory classroom time and state exam criteria to pass.

To move on to the Broker level, an applicant must have experience at the sales associate level (This is usually one year). Again, if a criminal record is found, questions will need to be answered. A state exam with a passing grade of at least 75% is required in Florida.

We have outlined the major three real estate license professionals. Specific criteria for licensure may vary from state to state. If interested, we recommend that contact your respective state authority.

Additional Key Terms Include

Appraiser Process Explained - Certified and Licensed Appraiser - Learn how the appraiser process is performed. A licensed real estate appraiser uses his or her knowledge of the real estate market to derive at property value.

Real Estate Appraisal - Explanation on the Inspection and Report - Read how a real estate appraisal is used to develop an opinion of value.

Real Estate Agent - Realtor Guidelines and Ethical Behavior - Explanation on real estate agents and how they must acquire a real estate license to represent a buyer or a seller in a real estate transaction.

Real Estate Investing - Information on Foreclosures- Explanation on real estate investing and the purchase of real estate for profit.

Commercial Real Estate and The Real Estate Market - Learn more about commercial real estate and how it can be bought or sold in the real estate market.

Real Estate Development - Modern Architecture and Structure - What is real estate development. Learn how developers are usually in the form of a company such as a corporation, but can also be an individual or partnership.

Real estate law - Including The Real Estate Contract - Read up on how real estate laws vary significantly between jurisdictions.

Real Estate License - Appraiser, Realtor, and Mortgage Broker - Explanation on mortgage broker, real estate agent, and appraiser licenses and how they must be updated with continuing education.

Real Estate Market - Updates on the Condition of the Market - How do the real estate agent, property appraiser, and mortgage broker affect the market.

Real Estate Appraiser Jobs - Trainee and Experienced Appraisers - How do you become a property appraiser? Click here for further information.