How to Change Real Estate Offices

You must contact the real estate department when changing offices, which is often done online.

As a licensed real estate agent, you must work under a licensed broker. After completing a specific amount of experience, you can apply for a real estate broker license, which requires taking additional classes and passing required tests. While real estate laws and regulations vary by state, the procedures are similar throughout the country; thus, licensing is under the authority of a state's real estate department. An agent wanting to change real estate offices is, in essence, wanting to change brokers.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet connection

Instructions

1. Review your contract with your current real estate office. Determine if you have any contractual requirements to fulfill before changing offices.

2. Visit your state's real estate department website. Determine if you must manage your license by logging onto your account with the state. Many states have systems where licensed agents sign up online to manage their licenses, such as informing the real estate department of office changes or classes completed. Look for information on the site regarding severing your license--the process of leaving your current broker.

3. Request the severing of your license. While completing this act is typically the responsibility of your broker, it is your responsibility to initiate the process.

4. Ask your new broker for the brokerage license number and branch number (if one exists) to complete your end of the process with the state. Log into your account (if you have one with the real estate department) and enter the information for your new office. If not, contact the state's real estate department.

5. Inform your new broker when you have given your required information to the state's real estate department. Request that your new broker complete the process.

Tips & Warnings

• The real estate department may require a fee.

• If you are a member of your local Realtor Association, inform them of the move.

• The process of changing real estate offices varies from state to state.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections: Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents
• Arizona Department of Real Estate