Realtor: Journey of a Gonna-Be, Pt. 1

Since I was a little girl I have been fascinated with real estate as a whole.  From abandoned houses, historic and modern architecture, home decor, cultural living, investing, people, I just find passion in it..... My grandfather was in Real Estate and so is my mother, and my Dad was a contractor....So, I'm no stranger, yet there's always something to learn and improve on.
Sparing you the major event in which finally inspired me to just do this, its time. 2016 is my year for big change - after all, if your goals don't scare you, they aren't big enough, right?! Besides...how else will I reach millionaire status by the time I'm 40?! LOL

Since both my father and grandfather are passed and my mother lives in another state, I've had to do a lot of my own research and footwork, thus, I'm sharing with you what I think will be helpful if you too, are thinking of or already started your journey.

First, I'm in Texas and most states have their own requirements and things for becoming a licensed real estate agent, so I'll mostly be writing about what to do, how and where to get it done and how much it's going to cost you...in Texas....Here's to you and a kick ass journey of your own!

1. Education
Yeah, well, you have to do this part. There's no way around it.  You will see that when you search "how to become a real estate agent" or "Real Estate Schools" you will find a wide array of choices and pricing. If you are like me, I'm looking for the least expensive accredited school!
I attend the MLM360Training.com use my link below to get up to 35% off of your courses. The discount will leave you to pay less than $400 for the complete set of courses required in Texas.  I did a 2 payment plan of $179 each to complete mine. The courses are very easy to follow, you can chose to receive your text books in the mail or PDF copy digitally, work at your own pace, great study guides & support - and when you are ready for the course exam...Its open book! Seriously, you shouldn't fail.
MLM360Training Course discount link  
(this link has an expiration date, so if you find this and it has lapsed, just message me! Ill getcha a new code)

2. License Application & Fingerprinting, TREC
In Texas, once you have finished up and passed all your courses, you will need to visit the TREC website (or your local real estate commission)and put in your license application. This is around a $250 fee that includes your required fingerprinting fee. You will need to send in copies of proof of all your completed courses when you submit your payment and application, just attach in your email (trust me, this will save you time by just sending it all now rather than waiting for them to tell you to do it.) You will then need to schedule a test time to take your final license exam and have your fingerprints recorded, this too, needs to be done through the TREC or your state's real estate commission.

3. Realtor Association and other fees
There's a difference between a Real Estate Agent and a Realtor, you know this, right?! An agent is a licensed sales person and a Realtor is a licensed sales person whom belongs to the Board of Realtors and pays their dues quarterly ($150 per quarter here in TX). Here's a list of fees to consider:

Real Estate office: You will want to spend some time deciding what agency is the best fit for you. Plus you will need a broker tp sponsor you as a new agent, as well.  Each one has their own office/desk fees, etc. For example, Keller Williams in Tyler, TX. Fees are $130 initial then $55 month thereafter, this includes, training classes offered by KW & associates (not including paid special guests, of course), use of office software, computers and other machines, Omissions & Errors insurance.

MLS: $150 per quarter.

GTAR, NAR & TAR: Greater Tyler Area Realtors - you will pay your national, state and local dues through GTAR. (Including your MLS) Visit here to find the application and pricing - including a prorated list. Expect to pay around $860-$900 for the year just in fees/dues....You will have other costs, too...Like your business cards, marketing costs, signs & sign riders, the list goes on, but that is with any business.

These are just some basics, yet some of the most important things to consider when deciding to become a real estate agent/Realtor....
If you have anything to add, please comment below or ask me about being a guest blogger.
I wish you much success in your endeavors!

Part 2, coming soon  - Helpful forums, websites, tools....

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