How to Get Your Realty License in WA
Do you dream of working in Washington as a realtor? Getting a realtor’s license is your first step toward a rewarding career selling and managing properties in WA. The field is dynamic, and you will work with diverse customers from retirees investing in a retirement house overlooking the beach to young adults looking for studio apartments.
Investing in quality education is crucial to boost your chances of passing the exam on your first attempt. Besides that, it will also put you in good professional standing, helping you secure a job after getting your license application approved.
This guide will walk you through obtaining your realtor’s license in Washington State.
What Are the Prerequisites?
Before starting the process, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the prerequisites set by Washington’s DOL. These eligibility requirements ensure that licensed realtors working in WA are honest and trustworthy individuals.
You must be 18 years old or above. You also need documents to prove you finished high school or a certificate equivalent to a high school diploma. The last requirement is that you must have a clean record. Don’t lie on your application if you have charges on your record. The state will still run a background check later.
Let the Lessons Begin
If you tick all of the prerequisites, it’s time to start the pre-licensing program. The course is 90 hours long and is meant to prepare you for the state exam. The program is split into a 60-hour section covering the basics of real estate and 30 hours on real estate practices.
Under the fundamentals course, you will learn about financing, valuation, ethics, and property law. Later, you will dive into more complex topics such as marketing, brokerage relationships, and closing procedures.
It’s Exam Time
Sitting for the Washington State real estate license exam is a step that strikes fear in most students. Getting exam fever is normal, but adequate preparation can boost your confidence.
You can invest in an exam preparation course to help revise the course material. The course will include mock exams and flashcards to help you memorize key concepts. Attempt the mock tests to become familiar with the main exam’s structure.
The exam consists of 130 questions. Out of the 130 questions, 30 will test your knowledge of state real estate topics with the other 100 covering national topics. You must get at least 70% of the questions right to pass the exams.
Let’s Get That License
Congrats on passing your exams! Now, you are closer to becoming a realtor in WA. Submit your fingerprints for a background check. Also, complete the license application process by submitting your documents and paying the required fees.
Review and approval will take a few days. Upon receiving your license, it is time to find a sponsoring real estate broker to work under for a specific period. The broker will guide you as you start your career as a licensed realtor in WA.
Final Takeaway
The grind doesn’t stop after you become a licensed realtor. You must complete the continuing education courses to ensure you can renew your license after it expires. Also, join professional bodies to boost your standing as a renowned expert in your field.
