How To Become A Real Estate Agent In North Carolina (5 Steps)

The real estate industry is one of the best ways to build wealth in every state, and North Carolina is no exception. The Tar Heel State’s dynamic housing market is full of opportunities for those who seek to capitalize on them. As a result, we’ve developed this guide to help you break into the real estate industry by teaching you how to become a real estate agent in North Carolina (also known as a broker). By following the steps below, there’s no reason you can’t be on your way to making your first commission:

• North Carolina Real Estate Agent Requirements
• Confirm You Are Eligible To Become A Real Estate Broker
• Complete A Background Check & Prelicensing Real Estate Coursework
• Pass The North Carolina Real Estate Broker Exam & Apply For A License
• Join A North Carolina Real Estate Broker
• North Carolina Real Estate Post-License Requirements
• Pros & Cons Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In North Carolina
• North Carolina Real Estate Agent FAQ
• Final Thoughts On How To Become A Real Estate Agent In North Carolina

To be clear, North Carolina is a “broker only” state. Brokers play the role of real estate agents in North Carolina. Therefore, from here on out, we will use the words “agent” and “broker” interchangeably.

Learning how to become a real estate agent in North Carolina can be rewarding and challenging. The prospect of helping individuals find their dream homes, facilitating property transactions, and making commissions with each closed deal is undoubtedly enticing. However, with the wealth of information scattered across various platforms, aspiring agents must navigate a maze just to get their license.

Recognizing this challenge, we’ve created a comprehensive guide for those aspiring to become real estate agents in North Carolina. This article serves as a roadmap, consolidating all the essential information needed for this exciting career path. From understanding the state's licensing requirements to mastering the intricacies of the real estate market, we aim to provide aspiring agents with a one-stop resource that simplifies the often intricate process.

North Carolina Real Estate Broker Requirements

The economic significance of real estate in North Carolina is monumental, prompting the oversight of the North Carolina Real Estate Commission. Given the sector's substantial impact on the state's economy, the Commission serves as a gatekeeper, diligently safeguarding the integrity of the local real estate market.

To ensure professionalism and competence, aspiring agents must meet five stringent requirements imposed by the Commission before practicing within the state's borders.

• Step 1: Confirm You Are Eligible To Become A Real Estate Broker
• Step 2: Complete A Background Check & Prelicensing Real Estate Coursework
• Step 3: Pass The North Carolina Real Estate Broker Exam & Apply For A License
• Step 4: Join A North Carolina Real Estate Broker
• Step 5: North Carolina Real Estate Post-License Requirements

This regulatory commitment underscores the Commission's dedication to upholding the standards for sustaining a thriving and trustworthy real estate landscape.

1. Confirm You Are Eligible To Become A Real Estate Broker

Learning how to become a real estate agent in North Carolina demands a strategic approach. The first step is ensuring you qualify to become a real estate agent. This proactive measure ensures aspiring agents invest their time and effort toward a realistic and attainable goal.

Candidates must meet several prerequisites to qualify for a real estate license in North Carolina. Firstly, individuals must be at least 18 years old, marking the legal threshold for participation in the state’s real estate industry. Additionally, aspiring agents must establish their status as U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or qualified persons under federal law. Furthermore, candidates must have their own Social Security Number, reinforcing the regulatory framework that ensures accountability and transparency within the profession.

Aspiring agents are encouraged to meticulously evaluate their eligibility against these criteria before learning how to become a real estate agent in North Carolina. By adhering to these foundational requirements, individuals can confidently proceed to the next stages of their real estate journey.

2. Complete A Background Check & Prelicensing Real Estate Coursework

The next step in obtaining a real estate license in North Carolina involves a comprehensive background check. Aspiring agents are required to order a criminal record report from criminalrecordcheck.com, a pivotal measure to uphold the state's ethical standards and ensure the integrity of the real estate profession. Each application with character concerns undergoes a meticulous case-by-case review, emphasizing the commitment to maintaining a reputable and trustworthy real estate environment.

The criminal record report must be completed within six months before applying for a license, ensuring the information is current and reflective of the candidate's present status. This background check is not just a formality but a crucial component in safeguarding the industry's ethical standards and the public's trust.

Simultaneously, candidates must sign up for and take North Carolina's mandatory 75-hour Broker Prelicensing Course. Beyond preparing students for the challenging license exam, this comprehensive course lays the foundation for a successful career in the real estate sector. Designed to instill theoretical knowledge and actionable skills, the course equips aspiring agents with the best tools to traverse the industry's challenges, making it an integral part of the licensure process in North Carolina.

It is worth noting that aspiring agents can’t take any course; they need to choose one from an approved list of prelicensing providers. Candidates will notice several options on the state-approved provider list, but one provider stands above the rest: The CE Shop. A nationally recognized real estate educator, The CE Shop offers candidates access to courses ranging from $715 to $1,079, not the least of which meet the state’s strict requirements.

Once candidates pass the 75-hour pre-licensing course and pass the final exam, they may move on to the next step.

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3. Pass The North Carolina Real Estate Broker Exam & Apply For A License

The next stop in learning how to become a real estate broker in North Carolina involves applying for, taking, and successfully passing the North Carolina Real Estate Broker License Exam. As a "broker only" license state, North Carolina streamlines the process with a single examination, eliminating the need for additional specialized tests.

The Real Estate Commission collaborates with the professional testing service PSI Services LLC (PSI) to facilitate the examination process, which includes scheduling and administering the test. To take the exam, candidates must submit a $56 fee to PSI, reflecting the commitment required to proceed in the licensing process.

The examination comprises distinct National and State sections. PSI develops and provides the National section, a standardized component administered in all states where PSI oversees real estate license examinations. Meanwhile, the State section is exclusively crafted by the North Carolina Real Estate Commission and administered by PSI solely to applicants within the state.

The dual nature of the exam ensures that aspiring agents possess a comprehensive understanding of national and state-specific real estate practices, providing a robust foundation for success in North Carolina's dynamic real estate market.

Upon successfully passing the North Carolina Real Estate Broker License Exam, it is the responsibility of the candidate to apply for a license with the North Carolina Real Estate Commission. The application process is pivotal for officially recognizing the agent's qualifications and their entry into the real estate profession.

Applicants should be prepared to pay a $100 fee, a nominal expense considering the potential returns and opportunities the real estate market in North Carolina offers. This step marks the culmination of the rigorous journey to becoming a licensed real estate agent in the state.

The North Carolina Real Estate Commission diligently reviews each application, ensuring that successful candidates meet the stringent standards set forth to maintain the integrity of the real estate industry. Once the application is approved, aspiring agents are granted the official license, opening the door to a rewarding career.

4. Join A North Carolina Real Estate Broker

Once licensed, newly minted provisional brokers must align themselves with a brokerage-in-charge. This crucial step provides them with invaluable real-world experience while operating under the supervision of an experienced professional. The brokerage-in-charge serves as a mentor, guiding and shaping the budding careers of these newly licensed individuals, imparting practical insights and industry wisdom.

Choosing a brokerage-in-charge is a pivotal decision for new brokers, as it significantly influences their professional development. Selecting a brokerage that aligns with their needs, aspirations, and work style is essential. A supportive and compatible brokerage-in-charge can catalyze growth and success, offering a conducive learning and skill development environment. Factors such as the brokerage's reputation, market focus, training programs, and company culture should be carefully considered.

This strategic choice enhances the new broker's learning experience and lays the groundwork for a flourishing career. Selecting the right brokerage-in-charge ensures a mutually beneficial partnership, setting the stage for long-term success.

5. North Carolina Real Estate Post-License Requirements

To be perfectly clear, once a broker passes the state exam and applies for their license, they become what’s known as a provisional broker. In North Carolina, a provisional broker is an individual who has obtained a real estate license but is required to work under the supervision of a broker-in-charge. This provisional status is a transitional phase, during which the newly licensed broker gains practical experience and completes additional post-licensing education before becoming a fully-fledged real estate broker. To transition out of provisional status, a provisional broker must fulfill a 90-hour post-licensing education program.

Brokers in North Carolina must complete 8 hours of Continuing Education every 12 months. This annual requirement is essential for staying informed of industry updates and maintaining a high standard of professional competence. Fulfilled through relevant educational courses, continuing education reinforces brokers' knowledge and ensures their continued effectiveness in the dynamic real estate landscape.

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Pros & Cons Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In North Carolina

Obtaining a broker's license in North Carolina can be a rewarding career move. However, it's crucial to recognize that this path may only suit some. Prospective individuals should carefully assess the advantages and disadvantages before becoming a broker in North Carolina.

Benefits Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In North Carolina

Learning how to become a real estate agent in North Carolina coincides with many benefits, including:

• Lucrative Profit Potential: Learning how to become a real estate broker in North Carolina can lead to a profitable career. With commissions as high as three percent, even a few transactions a year can add up to a large amount of earnings.
• Fulfilling Role In Realizing Dreams: A gifted North Carolina real estate broker is fully capable of helping buyers and sellers realize their biggest dreams of homeownership.
• Flexibility & Independence: Provisional brokers operate under the guidance of brokers-in-charge but enjoy considerable flexibility and autonomy in managing their schedules. While it's true that real estate agents may find themselves working extended or unconventional hours, their work schedules generally afford more flexibility compared to traditional nine-to-five occupations.
• Networking Opportunities: The real estate industry provides abundant networking prospects, enabling brokers to engage with various professionals, not the least of which can prove invaluable.
• Gateway To Wholesaling & Flipping Opportunities: Learning how to become a real estate broker in North Carolina can open the door to other careers in the industry. With the knowledge gained in the industry, brokers are more prepared to learn how to wholesale real estate in North Carolina or how to flip houses in North Carolina.

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Drawbacks Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In North Carolina

Learning how to become a real estate agent in North Carolina comes with many drawbacks, including:

• Income Uncertainty: North Carolina brokers don’t receive a traditional paycheck every other week. Instead, they receive commissions every time they complete a deal, which can be unpredictable.
• Intense Competition: The prospect of attractive commissions has created a lot of competition in the industry, which means brokers are constantly competing for clients.
• Lack Of Employee Benefits: Brokers in North Carolina don’t receive health benefits, which means they are on their own for healthcare and retirement services.
• Irregular Work Hours: To accommodate clients’ needs, brokers must work around other people’s schedules.

Read Also: Is Being A Real Estate Agent Worth It? 10 Pros & Cons To Consider

North Carolina Real Estate Agent FAQ

Understanding the answers to frequently asked questions about becoming a real estate broker in North Carolina is important for aspiring brokers. It facilitates a smoother transition through the licensing process and ensures candidates are on the right path. With this knowledge, aspiring brokers can make informed decisions, expedite their licensing journey, and position themselves for success.

How Much Does A North Carolina Real Estate Broker License Cost?

The total cost of obtaining a North Carolina real estate broker license can vary based on several factors. Pre-license education expenses can be as high as $1,079, the examination fee is $56, and the application fee is $100. Additionally, other variable costs are associated with background checks and continuing education.

The cumulative cost includes the pre-license education, exam, application fees, and additional expenses, making it important for aspiring brokers to budget accordingly.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Real Estate Broker License In North Carolina?

There’s no universal timetable for how long it takes to get a broker's license. The duration of the process varies from person to person. While everyone must take the 75-hour pre-licensing course, it will range from a few months to even longer. Also, administrative delays, exam schedules, and other things can impact the time it takes to get a real estate broker license in North Carolina.

How Much Do Real Estate Brokers In North Carolina Make?

The income of real estate agents in North Carolina can vary based on various factors, such as experience, location, and market dynamics. Typically, agents earn commissions ranging from 2.5% to 3% of the property's sale price per transaction. To provide context, the average home value in North Carolina is $316,103 (as per Zillow), suggesting brokers can expect to make somewhere between $7,902.58 and $9,483.09.

Experienced agents with established clientele and strong networks often enjoy higher earnings. However, newcomers to the field may experience fluctuations in their income during the initial stages of their careers. While this serves as a simplified illustration, it underscores the potential income for individuals who pursue the path of becoming a real estate broker in North Carolina.

Final Thoughts On How To Become A Real Estate Agent In North Carolina

Acquiring the skills to become a real estate broker in North Carolina is a great way to enter the housing sector and partake in its lucrative career opportunities. No prerequisite experience or substantial financial investments are necessary, making it accessible for anyone to pursue a real estate broker license. By following the steps in this comprehensive guide, aspiring brokers can learn how to become a real estate agent in North Carolina and take the most efficient path.

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