Anyone considering pursuing a real estate license in Tennessee can earn one within three to six months! Obtaining licensure as an agent in Tennessee is considerably easier than in many other states. Once you learn about a career in real estate, it's time to become certified. Let's discuss some specifics of getting a Tennessee real estate license.

Legal Requirements for Real Estate Agent Eligibility

In addition to a desire to assist buyers in finding their dream home or selling their current one, would-be agents need to meet the legal eligibility requirements. Applicants must be:

• At least 18 years old
• Be a United States citizen or lawfully admitted alien
• A resident of Tennessee for at least 45 days before obtaining a license
• A high school graduate or hold a GED

Those meeting these qualifications can proceed to sign up for the required educational courses for a real estate agent in Tennessee.

Completing Pre-Licensing Courses

The Tennessee Real Estate Commission has strict guidelines concerning educational requirements. In the Volunteer State, aspiring real estate professionals must complete 90 hours of courses and 30 hours of coursework before applying for a license. Classes are available in-person or online.

This two-part regimen covers real estate fundamentals and essentials for new affiliate brokers. Course costs vary drastically and range from $300 to $800, depending on the program you choose. The more costly ones include extra resources that may include:

• Coaching
• Exam Prep Sessions
• Extra Real Estate Resources
• Instructor Q&A Sessions

What Do Tennessee Real Estate Agent Pre-Licensing Courses Cover?

During the 120 hours of coursework required by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission, students can expect to cover the following principles and more:

• General principles of agency
• Property ownership
• Valuation and market analysis
• Land use controls and regulations
• Contracts
• Property disclosures
• Leasing and property management
• Financing
• Real estate calculations
• Handling of trust/escrow funds
• Agency and disclosure issues
• Other improper activities and consumer protection
• Special areas of practice

Additional topics that will help students prepare for the real estate licensing exam are available from the Tennessee Real Estate Commission.

Schedule to Take the Real Estate Agent Exam

It is necessary to have an accredited school submit an official certificate confirming the applicant's completion of the required courses to the testing company PSI. After approval notification arrives, move forward with scheduling the exam and paying the $39 exam fee. Testing can take place in person or online.

Take the Real Estate Exam

Come prepared to take the test or show the proctor online two valid forms of ID with signatures, and one form must be government-issued. The exam is in a multiple-choice format and consists of 120 questions. There are two parts: a national section and a state section. Test takers have 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete the test.

The affiliate broker exam is challenging, and only half pass it on the first try. A minimum score of 70 percent is considered a passing grade. One can make a second attempt at passing as soon as 24 hours later. If you pass the first section, it's not necessary to retake it. If the second attempt is unsuccessful, you will be required to wait 30 days to reschedule.

Select a Sponsoring Company to Work For

Before applying for an official real estate license, aspiring agents must have a sponsoring brokerage to work with. There are many real estate companies to choose from, and it will likely be necessary to interview a few before finding the right one. When interviewing, be sure to ask about benefits like mentorship programs and other forms of support.

Apply for a Tennessee Affiliate Broker License

With all the above tasks completed, apply for that hard-earned real estate license. This can be done at the Comprehensive Online Regulatory & Enforcement System's website. Creating an account is relatively simple, and be ready to pay the $91 licensing fee. Applicants will need to submit proof of their eligibility with:

• Photo ID
• Proof of high school graduation or GED
• Proof of electronic fingerprinting
• Eligibility form
• Proof of completion of pre-license education
• Proof of errors and omissions insurance policy

Within a few weeks, a license certificate should arrive.

Start a Successful Real Estate Career

With all that effort put into the process, it's time to begin your new career in real estate! Be sure to work closely with fellow agents during the first year in practice, as this support system is invaluable. Contact The Ashton Real Estate Group for assistance in licensing and to join Nashville's winning team!

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