In Ontario, it is well known that most real estate transactions and professionals need to be registered with RECO, the Real Estate Council of Ontario.
Becoming a real estate agent involves three main steps:
- Pre-Registration Phase: Read eBooks and take exams!
- Registration Phase: Find a brokerage and register your license!
- Post-Registration Phase: Continue education with more eBooks!
When discussing becoming a licensed real estate agent, we refer to the Pre-Registration Phase.
In summary: 5 courses, 4 exams, 2 online simulations and exams, total cost $4110 + $125 registration fee.
First Phase: Pre-Registration Phase
To start, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent (if not, you can take an English proficiency test), and pay a $75 application fee.
Courses, exams, and online simulations must be completed sequentially within two years of registering for the first course. The courses in this phase include:
Course 1: Real Estate Essentials
- Cost: $600 for the textbook + $115 for the exam
- Duration: 40 hours
- Exam Duration: 2 hours (75 multiple-choice questions)
- Notes: Basic and foundational, setting the groundwork for future learning.
Course 2: Residential Real Estate Transactions
- Cost: $685 for the textbook + $115 for the exam
- Duration: 150 hours
- Exam Duration: 3 hours (115 multiple-choice questions)
- Notes: Lengthy and detailed, covering a lot of material.
Course 3: Additional Residential Real Estate Transactions
- Cost: $360 for the textbook + $115 for the exam
- Duration: 60 hours
- Exam Duration: 3 hours (115 multiple-choice questions)
- Notes: Focuses on condos, not difficult.
Simulation 1: Residential Scenario Simulation
- Online Course: $855
- Duration: 35.5 hours
- Exam Duration: 3 hours (over 70 multiple-choice questions, with lengthy prompts)
- Notes: Taught via Zoom; listening to lectures usually ensures passing.
Course 4: Commercial Real Estate Transactions
- Cost: $360 for the textbook + $115 for the exam
- Duration: 70 hours
- Exam Duration: 3 hours (115 multiple-choice questions)
- Notes: Extensive and challenging content.
Simulation 2: Commercial Scenario Simulation
- Online Course: $690
- Duration: 28 hours
- Exam Duration: 3 hours (over 70 multiple-choice questions, with lengthy prompts)
- Notes: Taught via Zoom; listening to lectures usually ensures passing.
Course 5:
- Online Course: $100 (no exam; just complete the textbook)
- Notes: Teaches how to find a brokerage and register your license.
For more details on course fees, visit Humber College Real Estate Program Fees.
Registration Phase: Register with RECO
After passing the real estate qualification exams, you must find a brokerage within one year to register your license. The license is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years.
- RECO Application Fee: $356 ($306 + $50 application review fee)
- RECO Insurance Fee: $500/year
Joining a Real Estate Board:
Fees vary by board. Using TRREB as an example:
- TRREB Annual Dues: $678.52
- TRREB Entrance Fee (One-Time): $460
- OREA & CREA Entrance Fee (One-Time): $400
- OREA & CREA Annual Dues: $1080
Third Phase: Post-Registration Phase
Within the first two years of holding your initial license, you need to complete one mandatory course and two elective courses. The mandatory course takes about 15 hours, and each elective course takes about 10 hours.
Free Real Estate Licensing Course
For a smoother path to licensing, you can also take advantage of the free licensing course offered by JDL Realty Inc., Brokerage with no binding contract. Contact us by submitting the form!
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