What background is needed to become a real estate agent?
To practice real estate in Pennsylvania, individuals must pass an examination administered by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission. The examination—more comprehensive for brokers than for agents—includes questions on basic real estate transactions and laws affecting the sale of property.
As real estate transactions have become more legally complex, many firms have turned to college graduates to fill positions. A large number of agents and brokers have some college training. College courses in real estate, finance, business administration, statistics, economics, law, and English are helpful. For those who intend to start their own company, business courses such as marketing and accounting are as significant as courses in real estate or finance.
Personality traits are equally as important as one's academic background. Brokers look for applicants who possess a pleasant personality, are honest, and present a neat appearance. Maturity, good judgment, trustworthiness, and enthusiasm for the job are required in order to encourage prospective customers in this highly competitive field. Agents should be well-organized, be detail oriented, and have a good memory for names, faces, and business particulars.
What is the job outlook for careers in real estate?
Relatively low interest rates should continue to stimulate sales of real estate, resulting in the need for more agents and brokers. This occupation is relatively easy to enter and is attractive because of its flexible working conditions; the high interest in, and familiarity with, local real estate markets that entrants often have; and the potential for high earnings. Therefore, although gaining a job as a real estate agent or broker may be relatively easy, beginning agents and brokers may face competition from their well-established, more experienced counterparts in obtaining listings and in closing an adequate number of sales. Well-trained, ambitious people who enjoy selling—particularly those with extensive social and business connections in their communities—should have the best chance for success.
Do I get a Real Estate license after taking these courses?
RE5016A and RE5017A are approved by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission and can be applied toward the educational requirements to qualify to take the salesperson's and broker's license examinations. In order to take the salesperson's exam, you must complete both courses. It is highly recommended that you take the courses consecutively.
Whom do I contact with program questions?
If you need information about a course curriculum, a transcript audit, or courses in the major, contact the Continuing Education office at 814-865-3443, 800-228-1627, or e-mail psu4you@outreach.psu.edu.
Some information cited from Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006–07 Edition, Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos120.htm (visited January 04, 2007).
