Working in WA’s property market can be an exciting adventure if you want a job in a dynamic field with plenty of room for growth. However, you must complete the state’s requirements before you can get your practicing license. Part of the requirements is finishing the pre-licensing coursework curated by the Department of Licensing.
With numerous options available, especially online pre-licensing courses, selecting the best course can be overwhelming. You must research before purchasing a course or enrolling in a real estate school. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
Contents
WA’s Eligibility Requirements
Take your time and understand all of the prerequisites before diving into course selection. Each state has eligibility requirements that applicants must meet before they can work as property salespeople or brokers.
You must be a legal U.S. citizen, 18 years or older, to work as a realtor in Washington. A high school diploma or an equivalency certificate is enough for education requirements. It will also help if you have good moral standing and no prior cases related to fraud or criminal mischief.
Course Format and Delivery
You must be patient and thorough when reviewing a Washington real estate license course. A quick internet search will lead to top online and in-person schools offering pre-licensing real estate programs in WA. Before proceeding, decide whether to study online or attend physical lessons.
Both options are great, depending on your needs. Online courses edge out in-person programs when it comes to convenience, cost, and flexibility. They are suitable for professionals wanting to switch to a career in real estate.
However, in-person classes are ideal if you learn better via one-on-one or physical interaction with students and tutors.
Course Curriculum and Content
Once you have a shortlist of potential courses or schools, the next step is confirming if they are state-accredited. This is a crucial part because if you enroll in a school without state accreditation, you will not be eligible to register for exams or apply for a license.
Ensure that the course covers all topics as required by Washington’s DoL in-depth. Look out for reviews from past students to learn about the course quality. You can contact the school and ask questions about instructor quality, student support, and study resources.
Exam Preparation and Support
The state exam will test how well you understand the pre-licensing course material. Some schools offer extra study materials and resources to help prepare for the exams. This can be a nice addition if it is included in the overall study package.
The exam preparation material includes quizzes and practice questions to help you boost your understanding. You may also get free live webinars or seminars on exam tips and strategies from experienced tutors.
Cost and Financial Aid Options
Course fees can vary significantly. However, don’t base your decision on finances alone. You can get quality courses for under $150. Compare fees from different schools before deciding which course to go with. Evaluate the course quality value based on curriculum, instructor quality, and support services.
