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If you’re interested in a career in real estate in Ontario, obtaining your real estate license is the first step. The process involves meeting specific educational and licensing requirements set by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). This guide will walk you through the steps to become a licensed real estate professional in Ontario.
Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before you can begin the process of getting your real estate license, you must ensure that you meet the basic eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma (or equivalent)
- Be legally eligible to work in Canada
Once you confirm you meet these conditions, you can proceed with the licensing process.
Enroll in the Real Estate Salesperson Program
The Real Estate Salesperson Program is administered by Humber College on behalf of RECO. It provides you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a licensed real estate salesperson in Ontario. The program is divided into three phases:
- Pre-Registration Phase
- Post-Registration Phase
- Ongoing Continuing Education
Pre-Registration Phase
This phase involves completing a series of courses and exams over approximately 12 to 18 months. The core courses are:
- Course 1: Real Estate Essentials – An introduction to the basics of the real estate profession, laws, and ethical standards.
- Course 2: Residential Real Estate Transactions – Covers the residential buying and selling process, including legal obligations and client relationships.
- Course 3: Commercial Real Estate Transactions – Focuses on commercial property transactions, business practices, and special considerations in commercial real estate.
Once you’ve completed the courses, you must pass the associated exams before moving on to the next step.
Register with a Brokerage
After completing the pre-registration courses and passing all exams, you need to find employment with a registered real estate brokerage. You cannot work as a real estate salesperson without being affiliated with a brokerage. Research brokerages that align with your career goals and values, and apply to work with them.
Apply for Registration with RECO
Once you’ve secured employment with a brokerage, you can apply to RECO for your real estate license. You will need to:
- Submit an application online through the RECO portal.
- Pay the applicable registration fees (approximately $590).
- Provide proof of completion of the pre-registration education.
Your license will be valid for two years once approved.
Complete the Post-Registration Education
Within the first two years of receiving your license, you are required to complete additional post-registration education. This includes:
- Mandatory courses that further develop your understanding of real estate practices.
- Elective courses to help you specialize in areas of interest, such as property management or real estate investment.
This phase is crucial for your professional development and is a condition for renewing your license after two years.
Maintain Your License with Continuing Education
To maintain your license, you must complete ongoing professional development. RECO mandates that all licensed salespersons and brokers complete the Mandatory Continuing Education (MCE) program every two years. The program ensures that you stay up to date with industry standards, legislative changes, and ethical practices.
Pursue Further Career Opportunities
Once you’re a licensed real estate professional, there are many ways to advance your career. You can:
- Become a real estate broker by taking the additional Broker’s Registration Education Program.
- Specialize in different real estate niches such as commercial properties, luxury real estate, or property management.
- Build a team of real estate professionals or open your own brokerage.
Conclusion
Getting your real estate license in Ontario requires a commitment to education and ongoing professional development. By completing the required courses, finding the right brokerage, and staying current with RECO’s continuing education requirements, you can establish a successful and rewarding career in real estate. Following these steps will help you embark on your journey as a licensed real estate professional in Ontario.