Becoming a real estate agent in Ohio involves a series of steps where you meet the state’s legal requirements, undergo education, and pass a licensing exam. Below, I provide a detailed guide on how to become a real estate agent in Ohio:

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Ensure that you meet the basic requirements stipulated by the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• High School Diploma: Have a high school diploma or its equivalent.
• Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check. Note that certain criminal records may prevent you from being eligible.

Step 2: Complete Pre-Licensing Education

Before applying for the exam, complete the pre-licensing education requirements:

• Hours: Complete 120 hours of real estate pre-license education from an approved school. The coursework is broken down as follows:
  • Real Estate Principles and Practices – 40 hours
  • Ohio Real Estate Law – 40 hours
  • Real Estate Appraisal – 20 hours
  • Real Estate Finance – 20 hours

Step 3 on How to become a Real Estate Agent: Find a Sponsoring Broker

On your journey seeking how to become a real estate agent you must find a sponsoring broker to sponsor your license. It’s a good idea to start this process while you are still taking your pre-licensing courses so that you have a place to hang your license once you pass the exam.

Step 4: Apply for the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam

Once your education is complete:

• Register: Register for the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam through a provider such as PSI Exams, which administers the test.
• Fee: Pay the examination fee which, as of my last update in 2021, is $61.

Step 5: Take and Pass the Exam

Prepare and then take the exam:

• Preparation: Make use of study guides and practice tests to prepare.
• Passing Score: Achieve a score of at least 70% to pass the exam.
• Exam Details: The exam consists of two parts – the national portion and the state-specific portion.

Step 6: Apply for the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson License

After passing the exam:

• Application: Submit the license application to the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing.
• Fee: Pay the license fee which, as of my last update, is $60.

Step 7: Activate Your License

After receiving your license:

• Activation: Have your sponsoring broker activate your license online through the Ohio Department of Commerce’s e-license system.

Step 8: Join a Local Realtors Association

It’s beneficial to join a local Realtors Association:

• Networking: It offers networking opportunities and access to a variety of resources.
• MLS Access: Usually, joining an association gives you access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Homes for sale Columbus OH have their own MLS database.

Step 9: Start Your Real Estate Career

With everything set, you can now embark on your career:

• Marketing: Begin marketing yourself and seeking clients to become a top realtor in your area.
• Continued Education: Plan on pursuing continued education to stay abreast of developments in the field and meet the state’s continuing education requirements.

Note: Ensure to stay updated on any changes in the licensing process or requirements, as state regulations can change over time. You can refer to the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing for the most current information.