Are you interested in pursuing a career in real estate in Louisiana? Becoming a real estate agent in the state takes hard work, dedication, and a commitment to learning the ins and outs of the industry. However, with the right tools and resources, it is possible to achieve your goals and build a successful career in real estate.In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the steps you need to take to become a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana. From completing pre-licensing education to passing the licensing exam, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started in this exciting and rewarding field.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can become a real estate agent in Louisiana, you need to meet a few basic requirements. These include:
Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a real estate license in Louisiana.
Education: You must have a high school diploma or GED.
Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted alien.
Criminal History: You cannot have any felony convictions or any convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude.
Step 2: Complete Pre-Licensing Education
Once you meet the basic requirements, you need to complete pre-licensing education in order to become a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana. The Louisiana Real Estate Commission (LREC) requires that you complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved provider.The 90-hour course is divided into two parts: the 45-hour Real Estate Salesperson Pre-License Course and the 45-hour Real Estate Practices Course. You must complete both courses before you can take the licensing exam.
Important Notes:
- The pre-licensing education must be completed within five years of applying for a license.
- You must pass each course with a score of at least 70%.
- You cannot take the licensing exam until you have completed both courses.
Step 3: Pass the Licensing Exam
Once you have completed the pre-licensing education, you are eligible to take the Louisiana Real Estate Salesperson Exam. The exam is administered by PSI Services, LLC on behalf of the LREC.The exam consists of 130 multiple-choice questions and you have three hours to complete it. You must pass the exam with a score of at least 70% in order to become a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana.
Important Notes:
- You must take the exam within one year of completing the pre-licensing education.
- You must pay a fee of $85 to take the exam.
- You can retake the exam if you fail, but you must wait at least 24 hours before scheduling a retake.
Step 4: Find a Brokerage to Work With
Once you have passed the licensing exam, you must find a brokerage to work with. In Louisiana, you cannot work as a real estate agent without being affiliated with a brokerage.When choosing a brokerage, consider factors such as reputation, training and support, and commission structure. It’s important to find a brokerage that aligns with your values and goals as a real estate agent.
Important Notes:
- You must work under the supervision of a licensed broker.
- You must notify the LREC of your affiliation with a brokerage within 10 days of starting to work for the brokerage.
Step 5: Apply for Your License
Once you have completed all of the required steps, you are ready to apply for your real estate license in Louisiana. You must submit an application to the LREC along with the following documentation:
- Proof of completion of pre-licensing education
- Proof of passing the licensing exam
- Proof of affiliation with a brokerage
- Payment of a $90 license fee
Important Notes:
- The application must be submitted within one year of passing the licensing exam.
- You must complete a background check as part of the application process.
Step 6: Maintain Your License
Congratulations! You are now a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana. However, your journey doesn’t end here. In order to maintain your license, you must complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the LREC.Louisiana requires that you complete 12 hours of continuing education every year in order to renew your license. This education must be completed through an approved provider and must include three hours of LREC-approved mandatory topics.
Important Notes:
- You must renew your license every year by December 31st.
- You must complete your continuing education requirements by December 31st of each year.
Conclusion
Becoming a real estate agent in Louisiana requires hard work, dedication, and a commitment to learning. By following the steps outlined in this guide and staying focused on your goals, you can achieve success in this exciting and rewarding field.If you have any questions about the licensing process or the requirements for becoming a real estate agent in Louisiana, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Louisiana Real Estate Commission for more information.
People Also Ask:
How much does it cost to become a real estate agent in Louisiana?
The cost of becoming a real estate agent in Louisiana can vary depending on factors such as pre-licensing education costs, exam fees, and license application fees. However, you can expect to pay around $500-$1,000 to complete all of the required steps.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Louisiana?
The time it takes to become a real estate agent in Louisiana can vary depending on factors such as how quickly you complete your pre-licensing education and how long it takes you to pass the licensing exam. However, it typically takes around 3-6 months to complete all of the required steps.
Can I become a real estate agent in Louisiana with a felony?
No, you cannot become a real estate agent in Louisiana if you have any felony convictions or any convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude.