Can you get your RE license without working for a broker?

Question

I am currently studying to get my PA real estate agent license. I read that you have to register with a broker for 3 years. Will someone please clarify, do I need to work for 3 years for a broker? Im a bit unclear what happens once you pass the state exam and exactly what need to do.

The reason I want my license is only for my own houses when I buy and sell them.

Thank you!

The reason I want my license is only for my own houses when I buy and sell them.

Thank you!

Brad Jacobson · Answer

You do have to work with a broker until you become a broker yourself.  In your situation, it's probably not worth becoming a broker anyways.

Look for a simple brokerage when you're licensed.  The bigger and more expensive names (like KW, Coldwell, Berkshire, Remax, etc.) probably won't fit your needs as well as a small brokerage with smaller splits (like Equity, Real, or small local operations).

When you're about 75% of the way through the licensing course, start interviewing brokers.  Once you've passed the test and received your license, go to the broker of your choosing and hang your license there.

Good luck!

Justin Moy · Answer

You will need to work "under" a broker. Broker is a different license that has a more difficult test to pass and there are usually restrictions based on your state to when you can apply for that type of license. But even if you're working "under" a broker and are employed by that broker, you're still working as an independent contractor and your business is your own to run as long as you advertise who your actual broker is.

Eliott Elias · Answer

Negative

Nathan Gesner · Answer

You have to work under a Broker for three years. This ensures you have someone supervising you while gaining experience. With the appropriate experience and education, you can break out on your own after three years.

Maria Fortner · Answer

Maybe I'm not the best person for this answer but I know In Michigan you do not need to register with a Broker in advance but you must select a broker before you can begin the actual work as a real estate agent. In Michigan, the cycle for License expiration is 3 years so maybe that's what you're referring to. It doesn't mean that you have to stay with that same Broker for 3 years. Also, you don't need a license to do what you're doing but it's definitely a benefit to having one.