A Detailed Look at FL’s Real Estate Licensing Laws

Florida’s climate and warm weather make it a top choice for homeowners and investors looking for vacation rentals. The diversity in the property market also attracts realtors and brokers into the business. However, before you start selling and managing property in FL, you must get a license from the state.

During your coursework, you will learn about the licensing laws governing Florida’s property market. This is a crucial topic and is part of the pre-licensing coursework. Herein, we take an in-depth look at Florida’s real estate licensing laws.

The Role of FREC

FREC regulates the education, licensing, and discipline of realtors and brokers in Florida. It is short for the Florida Real Estate Commission, a body established by the Florida Statutes. The seven sitting members of this body are all appointed by the governor.

This committee comprises experts from the property market industry, public members, and realty brokers. Their role is to ensure that all licensees meet trustworthiness and honesty standards and possess all of the required qualifications.

Their mandate also gives them the power to review licensing requirements, create the pre-licensing curriculum, and approve real estate schools. They also have the power to enforce disciplinary action on realtors or brokers who break the state’s code of ethics.

Your Career Options

Real estate or property market professionals in FL can get a license to work as a sales associate or broker. A sales associate, aka a real estate salesperson, is an entry-level license. You don’t need any real estate experience when applying for this license.

Eligibility requirements for a salesperson license are simple. You must have a high school-level education, be 18 or older, finish the 63-hour pre-licensing program from an accredited school like RealEstateU, and pass the state’s exam.

A broker’s license is more powerful, allowing you to open a brokerage company, sponsor sales associates, and do more in the property market. However, to get a broker’s license, you must hold an active sales associate license for two years. You must also complete a 72-hour program and pass the broker’s exam.  

What Other Qualifications Are Required?

The eligibility requirements go beyond education and completing the state-approved coursework. There is also a background check that awaits during the license application. The state will check to see if you are an honest and trustworthy person. Any arrests or felonies on your record may put your plan of working as a sales associate in FL on hold.

We recommend requesting an honesty and trustworthiness review from the state early before enrolling in any real estate school. This will remove any doubts if you have had prior run-ins with the law.

Another point worth noting is the continuing education classes. These classes ensure that you stay updated with the latest changes to FL’s property market. You must also finish the accredited hours within two years to renew your license.

Let’s Talk About Agency Laws

Florida’s licensing laws insist on clear communication between clients and realtors or brokers. According to the law, brokers and sales associates must disclose their relationship with a client.

Realtors can pose as sellers or buyer’s agents or as transaction brokers.

•         Seller’s agents represent the seller’s interest in a transaction.
•         Buyer’s agents represent the buyer.
•         A transaction agent acts as an impartial party, facilitating business between a seller and buyer.

Ethical Considerations

Florida’s real estate licensing laws state how professionals should conduct themselves when running official business. Being a morally astute professional is crucial if you want to make a great career working as a realtor or broker in Florida.

There is a Code of Ethics that every professional must follow. Breaking the rules can lead to license revocation, which can debar you from working as a realtor in any other state across the U.S.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the law is crucial if you want to embark on a career in FL’s property market. We recommend taking your time to read and understand the law when taking your pre-licensing coursework. Also, network with other professionals in the industry, as there is more to learn outside the classroom doors.

Always stay informed with new updates by checking out the FREC website. If you can, join a professional body for valuable learning and career resources.

Author Bio

Harry Davids is a property market expert residing in Florida. He has a Business Administration & Management degree from Palm Beach State College. When he is not at work, Harry enjoys watching football and hiking.

Mike

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