Becoming a REALTOR®
Becoming a commercial or residential REALTOR® is more than meeting basic standards – it’s about embracing enhanced professionalism.
How to Become a REALTOR®
Step 1
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Step 8
Satisfy the English Language Proficiency Pre-Requisite
Before learners can write a licensing exam, they must meet BC Financial Services Authority’s (BCFSA) English language requirements. BCFSA recommends ensuring that you satisfy these requirements before registering for a licensing course. Find out more here.
Complete the Real Estate Trading Services Licensing Course
Within one year of registration, successfully complete BC Financial Services Authority’s Real Estate Trading Services Licensing Course and all course assignments offered through the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business. Students must pass the licensing exam with a minimum score of 70 per cent.
Explore Brokerages and Choose the Right Fit
Start contacting real estate brokerages to identify one that suits you once you are qualified to become licensed. Ensure the chosen brokerage is a member of a local real estate board or association. You can begin this step while working through the licensing course listed in step one. This will allow you to hit the ground running when you obtain your licence.
Get Your Criminal Record Check
Apply for a criminal record check online using Triton Canada. BCFSA verifies your criminal record history to provide appropriate consumer protection. This step is necessary before you enroll in the BCFSA Applied Practice Course.
Enroll in the BC Financial Services Authority’s (BCFSA) Applied Practice Course
Register for BCFSA’s Applied Practice Course for either residential or commercial trading services. Start the course and submit your licensing application to BCFSA, ensure you understand all required information, including an original criminal record check, language proficiency requirements (see pre-requisite covered in Step One), and brokerage certification. For details, refer to BCFSA’s Step-by-Step Licensing Guide.
You’re Now a Real Estate Professional
Congratulations! Upon approval of your application, you are now a licensed real estate professional. After receiving your licence, you must complete all remaining components of the Applied Practice Course within one year.
Become a REALTOR®
To officially become a REALTOR®, join your local real estate board or association. Membership in a board or association also makes you a member of BCREA and the Canadian Real Estate Association. These organizations work closely with REALTORS® to help with the commitment to elevated professionalism by providing support and member services in several areas, including managing Multiple Listing Service® Systems, education, and professional standards.
Maintain Your Licence and REALTOR® Designation
Uphold your real estate licence by finishing BC Financial Services Authority’s mandatory licensing renewal courses, such as the Legal Update course and the Ethics – Building Trust course, during each two-year licensing cycle.
Maintain your REALTOR® designation by completing 18 hours of professional development during each professional development program cycle of two years. This can be completed through BCREA and/or your member board or association.
(BCREA Access Required)
Why Become a REALTOR®?
Unlock a world of opportunities by becoming a REALTOR®. Here are some benefits of choosing this career path:
Elevate Your Professionalism
Embrace high professional standards and best business practices in a competitive and exciting sector.
Educational Empowerment
Hone your knowledge and skills with educational standards and exciting opportunities for continuous learning.
Cutting-Edge Tools
Ensure you’re always at the forefront of innovation by leveraging the latest marketing and technology tools.
Insights at Your Fingertips
Stay in the know with access to statistics, newsletters, and other valuable sector communications to keep you ahead of the game.
Access to Standard Forms
Mitigate risks and improve your professional practice by keeping up with the latest updates concerning standard forms.
Multiple Listing Service® Access
Gain entry to MLS® Systems operated by real estate boards and associations, giving you a powerful tool for success.
Streamlined Transactions
Enjoy the convenience of utilizing standard forms, making transactions smoother and more efficient.
Arbitration
Benefit from arbitration services, providing a fair and efficient way to resolve disputes. Find out more (BCREA Access login required).
Networking Opportunities
Seize connections that open doors to valuable collaborations and career growth.
Supporting Organizations
For more, see an overview of Who's Who in BC Real Estate.
BC Financial Services Authority
The regulatory agency in charge of licensing and the Real Estate Services Act that ensures compliance with governing laws and supervisory standards.
Real Estate Errors & Omissions
An organization that provides cost-effective professional liability insurance, loss prevention tools, and legal support services for the protection of real estate licensees and the public.
Real Estate Foundation of BC
A philanthropic organization that funds projects, builds relationships, and shares knowledge to advance sustainable, equitable, and socially just land use and real estate practices .
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