Florida Real Estate License: How Much Does it Cost in 2024?
Thinking about starting a new and exciting career path in the Sunshine State? A real estate license in Florida can open doors to a world of opportunity, allowing you to connect buyers and sellers, navigate the intricacies of the property market, and be your own boss. But before you dive headfirst into this rewarding field, it's important to consider the financial investment involved.
In this blog post, we'll break down the cost of getting your Florida Real Estate License. We'll cover everything from pre-licensing courses and exams to background checks and application fees so you can plan your budget accordingly.
How Much Does It Cost To Earn Your Florida Real Estate License?
The cost of a real estate license in Florida can vary, but the average cost is between $350 and $700 and takes 4-6 months to obtain. This means you can begin your new career and be just as, if not more, financially successful without debt or years past from earning a degree.
Below is a breakdown of the total licensing cost, including education, exam fees, and application fees.
1. Real Estate School – $200 - $500+
Choosing the right real estate school is essential for your success. Make sure your school is FREC-approved, has a high pass rate, and offers support to its students.
There are many real estate options. Some real estate schools, such as VanEd, are 100% online and can be completed anytime, anywhere. VanEd 63-Hour Pre-License courses also provide online support from instructors and payment plans. Other schools offer in-person classes.
To better understand which school is right for you, check out this blog: Online vs. Classroom Real Estate Courses - Which Is Better?
Exam Fee – $36.75 per attempt
So, how much is the real estate exam in Florida? Many people need to take the Florida real estate exam more than once to pass. It costs $36.75 each time you take the test. Make sure you study as much as possible to keep from retaking the exam.
Application and Processing Fee – $89
The real estate exam application fee is $89. You will also need to pay a fingerprinting fee of approximately $50.
What Are The Costs to Maintain a Real Estate License in Florida?
"How much does it cost to maintain a real estate license in Florida?" is a common question among real estate professionals seeking to budget for ongoing licensing fees and continuing education requirements. Even after school, exam fees, licensing fees, and background checks, there are periodic courses that real estate agents must take to keep their license current.
Post-License
First, FREC requires all new agents to take a post-licensing course before their first renewal.
Some states require their agents to take a post-license course during their first license renewal cycle. This post-license training is a one-time course that serves as an extension of your real estate education. Florida requires a 45-Hour Post-License Course during the first license renewal cycle for agents and a 60-Hour Post-License Course for Brokers.
Continuing Education
After post-licensing, agents must take Continuing education courses. These Continuing Education (CE) courses keep real estate agents up to date on the laws of their state, serve as an information refresher, and allow real estate agents to learn more about the real estate industry.
How often agents and brokers need to take CE courses varies depending on their licensing state. View all Florida license renewal requirements. CE is an excellent opportunity to gain knowledge and update your skills to advance even further in the industry.
Many brokerages pay for their agents’ CE courses. Ask your sponsoring broker if CE is something they offer.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License in Florida?
On average, it takes most people 4 to 6 months to earn their real estate license in Florida, depending on how quickly they complete their pre-licensing course and schedule their exam. Online courses allow for flexible pacing, while in-person options follow a more structured timeline. Some motivated students can complete the process in as little as 8 weeks.
How Much Do Florida Real Estate Agents Make?
According to recent industry data, Florida real estate agents earn an average of $55,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and sales volume. High-performing agents in hot markets like Miami, Tampa, or Orlando can make six figures. Your earning potential increases with time, a solid network, and ongoing professional development like CE and broker licensing.
Is a Florida Real Estate License Worth It?
Many aspiring agents wonder if the cost of a Florida real estate license is truly worth the investment. The good news? Florida’s booming housing market, strong population growth, and lack of income tax make it one of the most attractive states to start a real estate career. Employment of agents and brokers in the state is also projected to grow 2% from 2023 to 2033. With relatively low upfront costs compared to other professions, you can start earning commissions in just a few months without the burden of student debt.
Invest in Your Future With VanEd
While there are upfront costs associated with obtaining a real estate license, it's important to view this as an investment in your future. A real estate career offers the potential for high earnings, flexible work hours, and the satisfaction of helping people achieve their homeownership goals. With hard work, dedication, and the right business acumen, you can build a thriving real estate career in Florida and reap the rewards for years to come.
So, are you ready to take the first step towards your real estate dream? VanEd offers several different pre-licensing package options to help you get started on your Florida real estate journey. Visit our website and enroll today!
