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

While the housing sector may have experienced a few setbacks in the wake of the pandemic, rising interest rates, and record appreciation, all signs point to more activity in the coming years. As a result, real estate professionals are expecting to ramp up everything from marketing to profit potential. Consequently, the lull in the housing market may have created the perfect opportunity for anyone who wants to break into the industry. In particular, there may be no better time to learn how to become a real estate agent in Georgia.

The state's real estate market has experienced a steady upward trajectory, presenting a wealth of opportunities for aspiring agents to capitalize on growing demand. Georgia's expanding economy and constant influx of new residents have created a vibrant housing market from which anyone with a real estate license can benefit.

To help you benefit from this confluence of indicators, we’ve developed this guide to not only teach you how to become a real estate agent in Georgia, but also the easiest way to reach your goal. That said, the following steps represent the path of least resistance when learning how to become a real estate agent in Georgia:

• Georgia Real Estate Agent Requirements
• Confirm You Are Eligible To Become A Real Estate Agent
• Complete Your Prelicensing Real Estate Coursework
• Apply For & Pass The Georgia Real Estate Salesperson Exam
• Join A Georgia Real Estate Broker
• Georgia Real Estate License Renewal
• Pros & Cons Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In Georgia
• Georgia Real Estate Agent FAQ
• Final Thoughts On How To Become A Real Estate Agent In Georgia

Georgia Real Estate Agent Requirements

Not unlike every other state, Georgia’s housing sector makes up a significant portion of its economy. The money that trades hands between buyers and sellers daily dramatically impacts the state’s microeconomic landscape. As a result, The Georgia Real Estate Commission has tasked itself with maintaining the integrity of the entire sector. In doing so, the commission has laid out strict guidelines for anyone looking to become a real estate agent in Georgia. That way, the state can ensure that its ambassadors can do their jobs well.

It is worth noting, however, that Georgia takes the professionalism of its real estate agents so seriously that the path to becoming a salesperson isn’t as straightforward as many would appreciate. As a result, we developed this guide to help you learn how to become a real estate agent in Georgia.

The rest of this guide is dedicated to navigating these steps, allowing everyone to take advantage of the upcoming housing activity:

• Step 1: Confirm You Are Eligible To Become A Real Estate Agent
• Step 2: Complete Your Prelicensing Real Estate Course
• Step 3: Apply For & Pass The Georgia Real Estate Salesperson Exam
• Step 4: Join A Georgia Real Estate Broker
• Step 5: Georgia Real Estate License Renewal

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

Aspiring agents should know that specific requirements must be met to practice real estate in Georgia. Therefore, before committing to becoming a real estate agent in Georgia, confirming you are eligible to become one is crucial.

Here’s a list of the prerequisites that must be met to become a real estate agent in Georgia:

• Agents must be at least 18 years of age.
• Agents must be a high school graduate or the holder of a certificate of equivalency.
• Agents must pass a background check. While any previous convictions or sanctions may not disqualify aspiring agents from practicing real estate, they can influence the Georgia Real Estate Commission’s decision to license individuals.

Learning how to become a real estate agent in Georgia takes time and dedication. As a result, aspiring agents should confirm they are eligible to practice before proceeding further.

2. Complete Your Prelicensing Real Estate Coursework

Once you have confirmed you are eligible to become a real estate agent in Georgia, the next step is to complete the necessary pre-licensing coursework. Consequently, Georgia requires each aspiring agent to be educated by a school or program that the Georgia Real Estate Commission preapproved. That means anyone who wants to become a real estate agent in Georgia must meet one of the following requirements:

• Complete the Georgia Real Estate Commission-approved 75-hour Salesperson Prelicense Course at an authorized school.
• Fulfill a minimum of 10 quarter hours or six semester hours of eligible real estate coursework from a U.S. or Canadian accredited college or university, or take courses in real property, agency, or contracts from a U.S. or Canadian accredited law school. For evaluation, submit an official transcript to PSI Testing Excellence/Applied Measurement Professionals.
• Present evidence of completing at least 75 hours of pre-license coursework approved by another U.S. state or Canadian province's real estate regulatory agency. Include a verification letter from that agency confirming the approval of the coursework. Applied Measurement Professionals will assess the acceptability of your coursework and inform you accordingly.

Aspiring agents seeking an approved education provider should visit the Georgia Real Estate Commission’s Approved Schools List. As its name suggests, this list contains all of the approved educational providers the Georgia Real Estate Commission has approved to educate agents for a career in real estate.

The Approved Schools List contains several administrators, all of whom come with their unique programs and pricing. For an idea of what to expect, however, Colibri Real Estate offers four packages, ranging from The Basics to The Ultimate Learning experience. Each package gives students the pre-approved 75 hours of coursework required by the Georgia Real Estate Commission, but with different features. Ranging from $299 to $542, Colibri’s Georgia courses give aspiring agents everything they need to pass the impending exam and thrive in the real estate industry.

Read Also: Colibri Real Estate Review

3. Apply For & Pass The Georgia Real Estate Salesperson Exam

The third step in acquiring a real estate license in Georgia involves applying for and successfully passing the Georgia Real Estate Salesperson exam. This examination is administered by Applied Measurement Professionals and is approved by the Georgia Real Estate Commission. Prospective licensees must rigorously prepare for this comprehensive test, which evaluates their understanding of real estate principles, regulations, and practices they learned during their pre-licensing coursework. It serves as an assessment to ensure that individuals entering the real estate profession possess the requisite knowledge to navigate the intricacies of the field.

Aspiring real estate professionals should know there is a $119.00 examination fee. This fee covers the costs associated with the examination process and underscores the commitment required to pursue a career in real estate.

The exam itself consists of two portions: the National Real Estate portion and the Georgia Salesperson Supplement portion. Test takers will have a total of four hours to complete the entire exam. Upon completing the examination, you will be issued a Certification of Accuracy Statement along with the application details submitted to PSI by either yourself or your school. Those who have passed the real estate examination and fulfill all other licensing prerequisites can acquire a salesperson license by submitting their Certification of Accuracy Statement and a $170 license fee at any of the four PSI Test Centers in Georgia.

Anyone applying for a salesperson's license must initiate the application within twelve months of the date they took the examination. Failing to do so within this timeframe will require them to retake the exam, emphasizing the importance of a timely and efficient licensing process. This stringent timeline ensures that licensees are equipped with up-to-date knowledge and skills, contributing to the overall integrity and professionalism of the real estate industry in Georgia.

4. Join A Georgia Real Estate Broker

After obtaining a real estate license in Georgia, the next step involves newly licensed agents affiliating with a licensed broker. This partnership is a fundamental aspect of the real estate industry and is mandated by regulatory requirements. Working with a broker provides new agents with invaluable guidance, mentorship, and practical experience as they navigate the complexities of real estate transactions.

A real estate broker serves as a seasoned and licensed professional responsible for overseeing and guiding new real estate agents. They often have extensive industry experience and possess the legal authority to supervise and approve the activities of newly licensed agents. This collaborative arrangement ensures new agents benefit from a seasoned mentor's expertise, learn the local market's intricacies, and adhere to ethical and legal standards. Additionally, aligning with a broker provides new agents access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and a supportive environment that fosters professional growth in the dynamic realm of real estate.

Read Also: 11 Best Platforms For Your Real Estate Social Network

5. Georgia Real Estate License Renewal

Georgia is unique in that it requires newly licensed salespersons to complete a 25-hour post-license course within the initial year of obtaining their license. More importantly, the Georgia Real Estate Commission must approve the selected course. Failure to fulfill the post-license course requirement within the first year of licensure will result in the lapse of the license.

Additionally, licensed real estate agents in Georgia are required to renew their licenses every four years. As part of this renewal process, individuals must fulfill continuing education requirements by completing at least thirty-six hours of approved coursework within each four-year renewal period.

This educational component ensures licensed investors stay abreast of industry developments, legal updates, and evolving market trends. The Continuing Education mandate enhances real estate investors' professionalism by promoting a commitment to ongoing learning and staying current with the dynamic landscape of the real estate sector.

*For in-depth training on how to become a real estate agent in Georgia, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

Pros & Cons Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In Georgia

Knowing these pros and cons allows prospective real estate agents to assess whether the demands and uncertainties of the profession align with their personal and professional goals. It enables individuals to make informed choices, better preparing them for the challenges and rewards of a real estate career in Georgia. As a result, we have curated a list of the biggest pros and cons of becoming a real estate agent in Georgia for you to consider.

Benefits Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In Georgia

The benefits of learning how to become a real estate agent in Georgia include, but are not limited to:

• Flexible Schedule: One of the significant advantages of being a real estate agent in Georgia is the flexibility in scheduling. Agents have the autonomy to manage their time, allowing for a better work-life balance.
• Earning Potential: Real estate agents in Georgia can earn a substantial income through commissions. Successful transactions can result in lucrative financial rewards, making it an attractive career for those motivated by performance-based compensation.
• Helping Clients Achieve Goals: Real estate agents play a pivotal role in assisting clients in achieving their homeownership dreams. Guiding individuals through the buying or selling process and witnessing their satisfaction can be personally rewarding.
• Dynamic Industry: The real estate market in Georgia is vibrant and diverse, presenting agents with varied challenges and opportunities. From Georgia real estate contracts to negotiation strategies, agents can improve themselves in countless ways. This ever-changing landscape engages the profession and allows agents to learn and adapt.
• Four-Year License Renewal Period: Georgia offers a four-year license renewal period—twice as long as in many other states. This extended renewal period reduces the administrative burden on agents, providing more extended periods for professional development and reducing the frequency of license renewal tasks.
• Gateway To Other Exit Strategies: Is wholesaling real estate legal in Georgia? Yes, it is legal to wholesale real estate in Georgia, and a real estate license makes it even easier. That's not to say you need a license to wholesale, but it doesn't hurt.

Drawbacks Of Becoming A Real Estate Agent In Georgia

The drawbacks of learning how to become a real estate agent in Georgia include, but are not limited to:

• Highly Competitive Industry: Georgia's real estate market is competitive, requiring agents to distinguish themselves to attract clients. Standing out in a crowded field demands effective marketing strategies and consistent effort.
• Financial Uncertainty: Real estate agents may experience periods of economic instability, especially during market downturns when transactions may decrease. The unpredictable nature of income can be challenging for those who prefer a more stable financial environment.
• Self-Employment Responsibilities: Real estate agents are essentially self-employed and responsible for business expenses, marketing, and client acquisition. This independence can be empowering but also requires strong entrepreneurial skills and the ability to manage a small business.
• License Renewal Requirements: While the four-year license renewal period is a pro, it also prevents agents from learning the most recent changes to laws, regulations, and practices. Staying informed is crucial; agents must proactively seek ongoing education to stay current.

Georgia Real Estate Agent FAQ

Understanding how to become a real estate agent in Georgia can be intimidating, often leaving individuals with numerous questions. We aim to alleviate this uncertainty by addressing the most frequently asked questions about Georgia real estate licenses. Understanding the requirements, steps, and nuances involved not only streamlines the licensing process but also empowers individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions about pursuing a real estate career in Georgia.

How Much Does A Georgia Real Estate Salesperson License Cost?

Acquiring a real estate license in Georgia can run anywhere from $600 to $900, depending on the pre-licensing coursework. This estimate encompasses various expenses such as pre-licensing coursework, background checks, licensing examinations, and license application fees. These upfront costs are crucial investments that pave the way for entering the real estate profession with the necessary credentials.

In addition to the initial expenses, licensed real estate agents in Georgia must budget for ongoing maintenance. Agents must invest in continuing education courses every four years to stay abreast of industry updates and maintain their licensure. The cost of these courses adds to the overall investment in a real estate career. Still, it ensures that agents remain well-informed, compliant with regulations, and equipped with the knowledge needed to excel in Georgia.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Real Estate Salesperson License In Georgia?

How long it takes to get a real estate license in Georgia depends on several factors, making it challenging to pinpoint an exact timeline. Factors such as the completion of pre-licensing coursework, the scheduling of the licensing examination, and the processing time for background checks contribute to the overall duration.

While some individuals may expedite the process in as little as a couple of months, others may take a more measured approach, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation and understanding the nature of the licensing process.

How Much Do Real Estate Agents In Georgia Make?

According to Indeed, the average salary for a real estate agent in Georgia is somewhere in the neighborhood of $92,281. That, of course, is an average, and actual real estate agent salaries will vary based on the number of deals and the size of commissions received throughout the year.

That said, there’s nothing stopping agents from maximizing their potential. Those who learn how to become a real estate agent in Georgia and take the time to do things the right way can increase their earnings potential with each completed deal.

Final Thoughts On How To Become A Real Estate Agent In Georgia

Learning how to become a real estate agent in Georgia isn’t all that different from other states. Outside of the four-year renewal period, every additional step of the process is similar to most other states. That said, those who learn how to become a real estate agent in Georgia may reap the same benefits as their nationwide counterparts. With the real estate market ready to heat up, agents are well-positioned to enjoy a lucrative industry.

Ready to take your real estate career to the next level? Contact Real Estate Skills today and unlock the full potential of your real estate ventures. Our experts are here to provide guidance, resources, and strategies to help you thrive in the real estate investing industry. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills and boost your success. Get in touch with us now and elevate your career in real estate.