Uncategorized July 25, 2025

From Novice to Realtor®: Your 5-Step Blueprint to Becoming a Real Estate Agent

Written by Lilly Woodard

 

Have you ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes world of real estate? Have you considered if this career is for you? It’s a perfect career choice for anyone and any lifestyle! Keep reading to find out the steps to becoming a real estate agent.

 

Whether you’ve worked with a Realtor® through the purchase/sale of your home, or are just simply interested in this industry, our recruitment team can help you get through the steps of becoming a real estate agent.

 

Step 1: Find a Sponsor

 

1. Find a Sponsor

Reach out to Nicki Chentnik, Director of Recruiting, to discuss a Coldwell Banker Heritage Realtors sponsorship and a possible discount on the Real Estate Courses.

 

Nicki is an amazing resource to have through classes, testing, and onboarding! The whole recruiting team would love to help you find your place in this new career.

 

Step 2: Complete Classes

 

2. Successfully complete the four pre-license courses

To get your Ohio real estate license, you must complete 120 hours of pre-licensing classes. These classes include:

  • Real Estate Principles and Practices (40 Hours)
  • Ohio Real Estate Law (40 Hours)
  • Real Estate Appraisal (20 Hours)
  • Real Estate Finance (20 Hours)

Coldwell Banker Heritage recommends the following course providers: Hondros College and Sinclair Community College.

 

Step 3: Submit Exam Application

 

3. Submit State Examination Application

Once you complete your courses, you will submit the State Examination Application for license approval. It usually takes 14 business days (or less) to hear back, but times can vary depending on how busy they are.

 

Once you hear back…

 

Step 4: Schedule Exam with PSI

 

4. Schedule an exam with PSI Exams

PSI, the state-appointed exam provider, will email you directly to inform you that your application is approved, and you can now take your test. Schedule with them, and prepare for your test!

 

Feeling nervous and need more review? There may be additional options for you to purchase a study book or “crammer” to help you prepare for the exam.

 

Step 5: Take Exam

 

5. Take the exam!

The day is here! You can take your exam. While intimidating, you took and passed the classes, so you know your stuff. You got this!

 

When (not if!) you pass, we will be right here, super excited to get you onboarded and officially part of the Coldwell Banker Heritage family!

 

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