14 Nov Alabama Real Estate Commission: What You Need To Know
If you’re looking to become a licensed real estate agent in Alabama, you’ll need to follow the requirements set by the Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC). The AREC is responsible for regulating the state’s real estate industry and ensuring that agents are qualified and ethical in their practices. In this article, we’ll outline the steps required to obtain an Alabama real estate license and provide information on the role of the Alabama Real Estate Commission.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To be eligible for an Alabama real estate license, you must be at least 19 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be a citizen or legal resident of the United States. Additionally, you must not have any felony convictions or have had a real estate license revoked in any state.
Step 2: Complete Pre-License Education
The next step in obtaining an Alabama real estate license is to complete a 60-hour pre-license course from an approved provider. This course will cover the basics of real estate law, finance, contracts, and agency relationships. You can take the course online or in-person, and it usually takes about six weeks to complete. This is HANDS DOWN the best Alabama school we have found for pre-licensing courses.
Step 3: Pass the State Exam
After completing the pre-license course, you’ll need to pass the Alabama real estate exam. The exam covers both national and state-specific real estate principles and practices. You can schedule your exam through the AREC website, and you’ll need to pass with a score of at least 70%.
Step 4: Find a Broker
To activate your Alabama real estate license, you must work under a licensed real estate broker. This means you’ll need to find a brokerage to work for before you can start selling real estate. Many brokers offer training programs and mentorship opportunities for new agents. We know some great brokers in Alabama who hire and train new agents. Please contact us if you would like to know who they are.
Step 5: Apply for your Alabama Real Estate License
After you’ve passed the exam and found a broker, you can apply for your Alabama real estate license through the AREC website. You’ll need to provide proof of completion of the pre-license course, exam results, and a criminal background check. The application fee is $150, and the license is valid for two years.
The Role of the Alabama Real Estate Commission
The Alabama Real Estate Commission is responsible for regulating the state’s real estate industry and ensuring that agents are qualified and ethical in their practices. The commission is made up of seven members appointed by the governor and is part of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
In addition to licensing and regulating real estate agents, the AREC also handles complaints against agents and brokers, conducts investigations into alleged violations of real estate law, and provides education and resources for the public and real estate professionals.
Obtaining an Alabama real estate license requires completing a pre-license course, passing the state exam, finding a broker, and applying through the Alabama Real Estate Commission. The AREC plays a critical role in regulating the state’s real estate industry and ensuring that agents are qualified and ethical in their practices. By following these steps, you can become a licensed real estate agent in Alabama and start your career in this exciting field.