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California is a dream market for any realtor who wants to make a lucrative career. Demand is also skyrocketing with more people looking for vacation rentals and beachfront properties as retirement homes. While working in CA as a realtor, you will interact with clients of different ages and from various cultures.
However, before you become a realtor in California, there are steps you must complete. You must ensure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements to avoid problems during licensing or exam registration. However, the main part of this process is finishing the 135 hours of pre-licensing education.
Choosing a good realty school is a crucial part if you want to turn your dream of working as a relator in the Golden State into a reality.
What Do You Prefer: Online or Physical Classes?
This is the first decision you must make before going any further. Both options have their fair share of benefits and disadvantages. You can register for physical lessons at your local community college. The best thing about attending in-person classes is the interaction with other students and instructors.
Online schools or programs are an option if you prioritize flexibility and prefer self-paced courses. They are a suitable choice if you have a permanent job and do not have time to attend physical classes. If you are looking for the best online real estate school in CA, browse around this website.
Always Rely On Reviews
Do not be in a hurry to enroll in a pre-licensing program before reading reviews or testimonials from past students. Take your time and check if the school is accredited by California’s DRE. Enrolling in a school not accredited by the state’s real estate department will put your dream of becoming a realtor into jeopardy.
It is time to scrape the internet for reviews once you have confirmed that the school is state-accredited. Yelp and Google Reviews are excellent starting points. You can also find legit reviews by checking the school's social media pages.
Content is King Always
The curriculum is set by the DRE. However, schools will adopt different teaching methods, which matters a lot. Take your time and identify your learning style. Do you prefer one-on-one sessions, or are you fine with recorded lecture videos backed by study guides?
If you are a fast learner, then self-paced study packages will do it. However, choose online programs offering instructor-led classes if you want more interaction during the lessons. Also, check if the school provides extra student support via discussion forums and live webinars led by industry experts.
Beyond the Basics: Considering the Extras
There is more to becoming a realtor than just finishing the pre-licensing program and acing the state exams. Some additional services and features can enhance your learning and future career. For example, some schools link their students with the best California property brokerage firms for sponsorship programs.
Regular webinars and seminars from expert realtors and brokers can also come in handy. There, you can meet other realtors and build a solid professional network.