Realtor's Log: Hurry Up, Wait, and One Thousand Dollars

    OK, I decided to wait a bit until I had more to write about instead of blogging everyday saying, "Still waiting..".

So, I mailed of my request to have TREC look at my education and bless me with the ability to apply for my license, and 13 days later they did.  I, first, had to go get my fingerprints.  It's not necessary to have your fingerprints taken before taking your State Exam, you actually have 6mo, but I had the time, so why not. A single form and $40 plus 15 min and BAM! Fingerprints done, now what? With my fingers still smelling of alcohol I immediately filled out the application on-line, paid my $107 to TREC and waited some more. A week later I received a letter stating that I was now able to schedule my appointment to take my state exam. WooHoo!!

Now, before I run-off and pay $61 to take my test, I wanted to get the most out of my schooling.  They offer a Prep Class to get you ready for the State Exam.  That is where I was today, and will be tomorrow.

The class was from 8 - 4 with an hour lunch and ten minute breaks at the top of every hour.  The class consisted of pretty much a review on all the other books that I had been studying from day one with some emphasis on the "Need to Knows", pretty cool. Once  I finish manana, I will be calling to make my appointment to take my State Exam.  OK, Let's review the costs of this adventure up to this point. I do this knowing that it may differ from state to state and school to school.

Coursework/schooling - $800 -$1000

TREC Education Review Form - $30

Fingerprints - $40

TREC Application for License - $107

State Exam - $61

Alright, let's switch gears.  The above was all about the journey to get a license, but that just the half of it.  You also have to find a Broker to hold your license.  I got to take tours of different offices look at their fees and "splits" That means they take part of your commission per transaction up to a certain point or amount.  WHAT!? Yes. I know, it was news to me too, but the poker face stayed strong..Power to the players!  I decided to get with the Big KW.  Friendly people, nice atmosphere, decent fess and splits, Great continuing education. 

Here is the other cool thing/worry.

  I imagined that Starting out with your license is a little like getting your degree,  there is that moment of slight panic coupled with the "I..think I'll go....this way" thought.  I would encourage those of you wanting to pursue your license to not wait until you pass your test to start looking for a broker. 

I also wanted to get the fastest start possible, so I joined a team instead of going it alone.  Really cool stuff, and I'll post more on the Pros and Cons of that next time.  Best of luck in all you do.

~The Rook~