Becoming a real estate agent requires weeks of classes on real estate law as well as additional classes on how to market yourself and your new business. After you pass your exam and get your real estate license, however, the learning is not over. You need to take continuing education classes every year as well. 

What is continuing education?

Continuing education is a variety of classes that professionals need to take on an annual basis to maintain licensure in their given field. Everyone from teachers and nurses to insurance agents and real estate professionals need to take continuing education classes each year. 

Do real estate agents need continuing education?

In real estate, continuing education could mean staying abreast of changes in the law, learning new digital marketing techniques, or even adding additional real estate certifications, like ePro. 

Does my state require continuing education?

Continuing education, or con ed as it is sometimes called, is one of the requirements for maintaining your real estate license. Each state has a slightly different requirement in terms of frequency and hours. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has a complete list of requirements by state here. 

Where do real estate agents take continuing education classes?

For real estate agents, there are a plethora of options when it comes to taking con ed classes. The first place to check would be with the franchise that you work with. The office manager should know what classes are being offered and who in your office is taking them. You can also contact your local branch of NAR. Each location typically runs a few classes for CE credit.

These classes may be held at a convention center with a large group of people or they may be held over several nights in your office's conference room with just a few people. There are even the popular 'booze cruise' options that are held throughout the country. This day cruise includes lunch, a scenic tour during the learning portion, and adult beverages afterward. You can also cool into virtual real estate CE classes.

Are there virtual real estate CE classes available?

If you prefer to learn at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home, you can sign up to earn your credits through virtual real estate continuing education. There are many options available, both synchronous, where you need to be present with the instructor at a certain time, and asynchronous, where you can log in when your schedule allows and move at your own pace. 

Continuing education is designed to help you stay in the know in the field of real estate and can help you advance your career. Taking con ed is an important part of being a licensed agent.

Share