WANT TO BE A REALTOR®?

Becoming a REALTOR®

Becoming a commercial or residential REALTOR® means making a commitment to professionalism that goes beyond regulatory requirements, becoming a member of your local real estate board and upholding the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. Find out how to join the profession.

  • Step 1
    STEP 1

    Successfully complete the BC Financial Services Authority’s (BCFSA) Real Estate Trading Services Licensing Course offered through the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business.

  • Step 2
    STEP 2

    Begin talking to real estate brokerages to find a brokerage that is the right fit for you to join when you are licenced. Make sure this brokerage is a member of a local real estate board.

  • Step 3
    STEP 3

    Register for BCFSA’s Applied Practice Course for either residential or commercial trading services. Once you begin the course submit your licensing application to BCFSA. Make sure you understand all the information that is required as part of the application (including an original criminal record check and brokerage certification).

    For more details click here to view BCFSA’s Step-by-Step Licensing Guide.

  • Step 4
    STEP 4

    Congratulations, if your application is approved, you’re now a real estate agent. Once you have received your licence, you must complete all remaining components of the Applied Practice Course within six months.

  • Step 5
    STEP 5

    . . .but not yet a REALTOR®. To officially become a REALTOR®, your next step is to join your local real estate board. Joining a board also makes you a member of BCREA and the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).

  • Step 6
    STEP 6

    Maintain your real estate license and REALTOR® designation by completing BCFSA’s mandatory licensing courses, like Legal Update, and 18 hours of professional development through BCREA and/or your member board every two years.

What is the Value of Becoming a REALTOR®?

Benefits of being a REALTOR® include:

  • Access to MLS® Systems operated by real estate boards
  • Professional standards and business practices
  • Access to standard forms
  • Educational standards and opportunities
  • Access to statistics, newsletters and other industry communications
  • Leading-edge marketing and technology tools
  • Arbitration services
  • Networking opportunities

Supporting Organizations

CREA
  • National Standards
  • CREA Brands and Trademarks
  • Federal Government Advocacy
  • Economic Analysis

BCREA
  • Communication
  • Education
  • Economics
  • Government Relations
  • Standard Forms
  • Arbitration

11 member boards
  • MLS®
  • Education
  • Marketing Tools
  • High Standards of Business Practice and Ethics

23k BC REALTORS®
  • Commercial Transactions
  • Residential Transactions
  • Leasing and Renting


INDUSTRY INSIGHTS