How to Study for the Real Estate Exam in Massachusetts

Prepare for a career as a real estate salesperson.

You must pass the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' real estate exam as one of the requirements for getting a real estate agent license. The examination will validate that you possess sufficient knowledge about the transactions, laws and regulations in Massachusetts to practice real estate on a professional basis. Anyone over the age of 18 who lives in Massachusetts and has never been convicted of a felony crime can apply for a real estate license.

Instructions

1. 

   Take the required pre-licensing classes.

   Complete the statutory pre-licensing studies requirement of 24 hours at one of the Licensing Board's approved real estate schools. The school will provide you with the state examination application materials in the form of the Candidate Handbook after you complete the required study. You must take the required study course in person, rather than online.

2. 

   Learn the legal aspects and definitions of real estate.

   Study the topics identified in the Candidate's Handbook for the 80-question general section of the real estate licensing exam. These topics include, but are not limited to, real property characteristics and definitions, contracts and relationships with buyers and sellers, property valuation and appraisals, disclosures, federal laws that govern state activities, financing and leasing and property management.

3. 

   Study the governing and licensing requirements.

   Study the topics identified in the Candidate's Handbook for the 40-question governance section of the real estate licensing exam. You should understand the function and powers of the Real Estate Board of Registration, the licensing requirements and all the requirements that govern you as a licensee.

4. 

   Exam prep companies can help you get ready.

   Find a company that offers study aids and preparation for the real estate exam. Different companies such as Pearson Vue, Massachusetts Real Estate License Prep Master, NewEnglandMoves.com and various realty companies provide flexible scheduling options to applicants, and a few companies such as LicenseProfessor.com and LicenseTutor.com providing low-cost online registration and study options.

5. 

   Licensed professionals can provide study guidance.

   Discuss the exam with a licensed real estate agent or broker to get tips on what you can expect from a person who has already passed the licensing exam.

Tips & Warnings

• The 24-hour education you take is only good for two years. Schedule your real estate examination within two years of completing your required education.

References

• Commonwealth of Massachusetts Real Estate Candidate Handbook (PDF)
• Pearson Vue: General Exam Content Outlines
• Mass.gov: Real Estate Salespersons & Brokers Application Forms
• Massachusetts Association of Realtors: Become a Real Estate Agent
• Mortgage News Daily: Become a Real Estate Agent in Massachusetts

Resources

• Mass.gov: Authorized Massachusetts Real Estate Schools
• Mass.gov: Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers & Salespersons
• Pearson Vue: Massachusetts Real Estate