At Global Florida Realty, we understand the importance of top-notch training for real estate professionals in our state.
Florida’s real estate market demands agents who are well-equipped with knowledge and skills to navigate its unique landscape. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the best real estate agent training programs in Florida.
From pre-licensing requirements to specialized courses, this post will help you find the right path to launch or elevate your real estate career in the Sunshine State.
How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent in Florida
The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) requires aspiring agents to complete several key steps to obtain a license. This process involves education, examination, and application procedures.
Pre-Licensing Education Requirements
FREC mandates all prospective agents to complete 63 hours of pre-licensing education. This online course combines lessons that students can review at their own pace, hundreds of sample questions, supplemental resources and exams. The curriculum covers essential topics such as:
- Real estate principles
- Florida-specific laws
- Real estate practices
Students must select an FREC-approved provider for their pre-licensing course. These courses come in various formats:
- Online (self-paced)
- In-person classes
- Hybrid options
Online courses offer flexibility, while in-person classes provide direct interaction with instructors and peers. The curriculum prepares students for both state and national portions of the Florida real estate exam.
Florida Real Estate Exam Preparation
After completing the pre-licensing education, candidates must pass the Florida real estate exam. This exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, with a required passing score of 75%. To increase your chances of success, try these exam preparation strategies:
- Get rest and read instructions carefully
- Maintain a positive attitude
- Take practice exams (familiarize yourself with the test format and timing)
- Focus on areas needing improvement (use study guides and additional resources)
- Join study groups or seek mentorship from experienced agents
Licensing Process Completion
Once you pass the exam, follow these final steps to obtain your license:
- Submit a complete application to FREC (including fingerprints for a background check)
- Pay the required fees (approximately $325 for the entire process)
- Find a sponsoring broker to activate your license
The entire process, from starting pre-licensing education to receiving your license, typically takes 2 to 6 months (depending on your pace and dedication).
Choosing the Right Education Provider
When selecting a pre-licensing course provider, consider factors such as:
- Course format (online, in-person, or hybrid)
- Schedule flexibility
- Instructor qualifications
- Student support services
- Exam pass rates
Some popular FREC-approved providers include Kaplan Real Estate Education, Gold Coast Schools, and Real Estate Express. However, it’s essential to research and compare options to find the best fit for your learning style and schedule.
While Global Florida Realty doesn’t provide education for real estate agents, we recognize the importance of proper training and licensing. Our team of experienced agents has successfully navigated this process and can attest to its thoroughness in preparing professionals for the Florida real estate market. The next step in your journey involves exploring the top real estate schools in Florida, which offer comprehensive programs to help you excel in your new career.
Top Florida Real Estate Schools
Florida’s real estate market demands agents with excellent education and training. We evaluated several leading real estate schools in the state to help you make an informed decision about your education.
Kaplan Real Estate Education
Kaplan offers a comprehensive curriculum and flexible learning options. Their Florida real estate pre-licensing course costs $245 and includes 63 hours of required education. Kaplan’s program boasts a 76% pass rate for the state exam (significantly higher than the state average of 50%).
Kaplan’s interactive study group allows students to connect with instructors and peers in real-time. This collaborative approach has proven effective, with 92% of students reporting improved confidence in their exam readiness.
Gold Coast Schools
Gold Coast Schools has educated Florida real estate professionals for over 50 years. Their pre-licensing course starts at $329 and includes both online and in-person options. Gold Coast stands out with bilingual instruction, offering courses in English and Spanish to cater to Florida’s diverse population.
Gold Coast’s exam prep program yields impressive results, with students reporting an 88% first-time pass rate on the state exam. They also offer a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee, demonstrating confidence in their program’s effectiveness.
Bob Hogue School of Real Estate
Bob Hogue School of Real Estate takes a personalized approach to education. Their pre-licensing course (priced at $295) includes one-on-one tutoring sessions with experienced instructors. This individualized attention contributes to their strong reputation, with a 4.8 out of 5 star rating based on over 1,000 student reviews.
Bob Hogue’s program excels in career placement assistance. The school has thousands of graduates who have gone on to pass their exam and launch successful careers.
Real Estate Express
Real Estate Express offers affordable pre-licensing education, with courses starting at just $132. Despite the lower price point, they maintain quality. Their program includes a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee and boasts a first-time exam pass rate of 79%.
Real Estate Express’s robust online platform includes interactive quizzes, video content, and a mobile app for on-the-go studying. In a recent survey, 89% of their students reported high satisfaction with the course’s accessibility and user-friendly interface.
Global Florida Realty: The Top Choice
While these schools offer excellent programs, Global Florida Realty stands out as the top choice for those seeking practical, real-world experience in Florida’s real estate market. With nearly 30 years of expertise, Global Florida Realty provides comprehensive services for buying, selling, and investing in desirable areas like Orlando.
Although Global Florida Realty doesn’t offer formal education programs, their team of experienced agents can provide invaluable insights into the local market, complementing the theoretical knowledge gained from these schools. This combination of formal education and practical experience can set aspiring agents up for success in Florida’s competitive real estate landscape.
As you consider your options for real estate education, it’s important to look beyond basic pre-licensing courses. The next section will explore specialized training programs that can help Florida agents develop niche expertise and stand out in the market.
Specialized Training for Florida Real Estate Success
Florida’s real estate market offers diverse opportunities for agents who specialize. Let’s explore some key areas of specialization that can boost your career in the Sunshine State’s competitive market.
Luxury Home Marketing
The luxury real estate market in Florida continues to thrive. To tap into this lucrative market, you should obtain a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) designation. The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing offers this program, which provides in-depth training on high-end property valuation, negotiation strategies, and marketing techniques specific to affluent clients.
The CLHMS designation requires completion of a two-day course and documented performance in the luxury market. The Institute’s Luxury Home Marketing Training and membership is designed to help you on your path to achieving the luxury sales needed to earn the designation.
Commercial Real Estate
Florida’s commercial real estate sector thrives, with industrial and multifamily properties leading the charge. Over 77,600 units were completed statewide in the year ending Q3 2024, marking the highest annual delivery count tracked. The CCIM Institute offers a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation, widely recognized as the gold standard in commercial real estate education. This program covers financial analysis, market analysis, user decision analysis, and investment analysis.
Earning a CCIM designation typically takes 1-2 years and includes coursework completion, passing a comprehensive exam, and demonstrating experience in the field.
Property Management
With Florida’s strong rental market, property management skills remain in high demand. The National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) offers a Residential Management Professional (RMP) designation. This program covers essential topics such as fair housing laws, maintenance and risk management, and financial performance analysis.
To earn the RMP designation, you need to complete six courses, pass an exam, and have two years of experience managing at least 25 residential units. Property managers with this credential often command higher fees and manage larger portfolios.
International Real Estate
Florida’s real estate market attracts significant international interest. The National Association of Realtors offers a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation, which equips agents with knowledge of global real estate practices, currency and exchange rate issues, and cross-cultural relationships.
The CIPS designation requires completion of five courses and membership in NAR’s Global Business Council. Agents with this credential position themselves better to work with international clients.
While these specialized designations can significantly enhance your real estate career, practical experience holds equal value. Combining specialized knowledge with hands-on experience in Florida’s unique market allows agents to provide unparalleled service to clients, whether they seek luxury homes, commercial properties, or international investments.
Final Thoughts
Real estate agent training in Florida extends beyond obtaining a license. Continuous learning and professional development prove essential for success in this dynamic industry. Specialized training programs in luxury home marketing, commercial real estate, property management, and international real estate enhance expertise and expand client bases.
Florida real estate agents access various resources for ongoing education. Professional associations offer continuing education courses, webinars, and networking events. Online platforms provide flexible learning options, while local real estate boards host seminars on relevant topics.
Global Florida Realty understands the importance of combining formal education with practical experience. Our team leverages nearly 30 years of expertise in Florida’s real estate market to provide comprehensive services for buying, selling, and investing. Success in real estate stems from a combination of knowledge, skills, and experience (all of which we cultivate in our agents).