How to Become a Real Estate Broker in Pennsylvania

A real estate broker is an intermediary between buyers and sellers. He is licensed to make real estate price negotiations on his client's behalf. Those who wish to become real estate brokers in Pennsylvania must acquire some experience as a real estate salesperson first then apply to take the broker-licensing examination. The State Real Estate Commission regulates the real estate industry in Pennsylvania.

Instructions

1. Ensure that you are eligible for a broker license. You must be at least 21 years old with a high school diploma or a GED. You must also have completed 240 hours of real estate classes at an approved school. Those who have a bachelors degree in real estate or a juris doctorate degree are exempt from the education requirement.

2. Obtain proof of experience. If you wish to apply for a Pennsylvania broker's license, you must have at least three years of experience in the real estate industry. The Real Estate Commission awards points for experience in the following categories: real estate sales, exclusive listings that sold, unsold exclusive listings, commercial leases, residential leases and property management assistance. You need 200 points to apply for a broker's license.

3. Download an application for a broker's license from the Real Estate Commission website. You can also obtain it from the Commission's office.

4. Prepare supporting documents. Obtain references from a real estate broker with an active license and two property owners in the county in which you work or reside. These individuals must not be related to you. You must also provide information about any felony or misdemeanor convictions as well as the disciplinary actions taken, transcripts showing completion of the real estate classes and a resume.

5. Complete the form. Submit the form, supporting documents and the fee to the Pennsylvania State Real Estate Commission. As of 2010, the fee is $40.

6. Wait for a response from the Pennsylvania State Real Estate Commission. If the office determines that you are eligible to take the broker examination, it will send you a Certificate of Eligibility and a Candidate Information Bulletin. This bulletin contains all the information you will need to schedule your examination with PSI Examination Services, as well as information on the examination.

7. Take the broker licensing exam. The Commission will issue a license when you pass the exam successfully.

Tips & Warnings

• Renew your license to keep it active. Pennsylvania real estate licenses expire on May 31 of every even-numbered year.

References

• State Real Estate Commission Licensure: Information