California Real Estate Sales Associate Training
Real estate associates, also known as agents, sell and lease residential and commercial property, acting as an intermediary between principals. They may represent buyers, sellers and landlords, and most are self-employed. In 2010, sales associate opportunities existed in the major California real estate markets of Los Angeles, San Diego and the San Francisco Bay Area, according to Coldwell Banker, a real estate brokerage firm. To become California real estate sales associates, individuals must obtain training and pass a state licensing exam.
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Significance
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Buying or selling real estate is a major financial decision and process. The complexities of negotiating, financing and completing the paperwork involved in a successful real estate transaction make knowledgeable sales associates an important resource. The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) requires all individuals acting in the capacity of an agent to possess a current and active real estate salesperson license. They must first complete educational courses through a state-approved real estate training program and pass the state exam with a minimum score of 70 percent.
Training Requirements
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As of October 1, 2007, California eliminated the "conditional" salesperson license, which allowed licensees to postpone the completion of two additional college-level real estate courses for up to 18 months after issuance. The California Association of Realtors (CAR), who pushed for the change, said, "Our members are concerned that the ranks of real estate salespersons are being overwhelmed by inadequately trained entry level salespeople," according to Realty Times. In an effort to thwart the number of minimally trained sales associates from entering the field, the Senate passed Assembly Bill 2429, which requires applicants to complete all three of the DRE-mandated pre-license courses prior to taking the license examination, according to the North San Diego County Association of Realtors.
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Pre-license Training
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The three college-level courses required to qualify for a real estate sales associate exam are Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice and one of the 12 DRE-approved pre-license courses. Options include real estate appraisal, finance, economics and legal aspects. The Real Estate Principles course trains potential licensees on the topics of California law, agency, land use, ownership and finance, escrow accounts, disclosures and disciplinary actions, according to Real Estate Express. Real Estate Practice teaches the practical applications of contracts, licenses, closings and real estate practices specific to California.
Continuing Education
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Sales associates must obtain additional training to renew their license every four years. Salespersons licensed prior to October 1, 2007, and renewing for the first time must complete five separate three-hour approved continuing education courses in ethics, agency, trust fund handling, fair housing and risk management. Those licensed on or after that date must complete 45 clock hours of approved continuing education consisting of the previously mentioned courses, plus consumer protection and consumer service courses. Subsequent renewals require all associates to complete 45 clock hours of approved education consisting of risk management, consumer protection and consumer service, according to the DRE.
Where to Train
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Education courses can be taken at any accredited institution such as the University of California, California State University and the community colleges, according to the DRE. Availability of courses varies by campus and semester. Training is also available for credit through local Board of Realtors offices and many of the leading real estate brokerage firms. Pre-license training can also be completed through private DRE-approved real estate schools on site, by mail or online.
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References
- Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage: Sales Associate Opportunities
- California Department of Real Estate: Additional Requirements for Salespersons Issued Conditional Licenses
- Realty Times: AB 2429 Would Eliminate Conditional Real Estate License
- North San Diego County Association of Realtors: DRE Licensing Information
- California Department of Real Estate: Continuing Education Requirements
Resources
- Photo Credit My Home for sale image by Primabild from Fotolia.com
