Looking for the best online real estate education in CA? This article breaks down the top options, features and benefits. Whether you want to become a California real estate agent or advance your real estate career in CA, find the right online school for your education and career needs.
Introduction To California Real Estate Licensing
An Overview Of The California real estate license requirements
To start a successful real estate career in CA you must first meet the licensing requirements set by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). The journey begins with 135 hours of pre-licensing courses which will give you the essential knowledge in real estate principles, practice and finance. These courses are crucial as they lay the foundation for your understanding of real estate transactions and prepare you for the California real estate exam.
The pre-licensing coursework is divided into three main categories: Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice and a third course of your choice on a real estate related topic. Each course requires a minimum of 45 hours of study so you get a comprehensive understanding of the subject. One of the optional courses can be ‘real estate finance’. Once you have completed these courses you will need to pass the final exams for each course before you can apply to take the state licensing exam.
Passing the California real estate exam is a big milestone in your journey. This exam tests your knowledge of the material covered in your pre-licensing courses and makes sure you are ready to handle the responsibilities of a real estate agent. After passing the exam you can submit your application to the DRE and upon approval you will receive your California real estate license.
Why choose the right online real estate school
Choosing the right online real estate school is a big deal in your journey to become a licensed real estate agent in CA. With so many options out there it’s important to choose a school that fits your learning style, budget and career goals and provides quality real estate education. The right school will give you comprehensive pre-licensing courses, exam prep and student support, all of which are key to your success.
A good online real estate school will have engaging and interactive course content that makes complex real estate concepts easy to understand. It will also have flexible learning options so you can study at your own pace and on your own schedule. This flexibility is especially helpful if you are studying along with other personal or professional commitments. Also the school will have a high pass rate for the California real estate exam which means their courses are well preparing students for the test. It will have valuable resources such as practice exams, study guides and access to instructors who can guide and support you throughout your learning journey.
In summary choosing the right online real estate school can make a big difference in getting your California real estate license and starting a successful real estate career. By considering factors like course content, pricing, student support and pass rates you can make an informed decision that sets you up for success.
Key Points
- Top online real estate schools in CA include License Solution, The CE Shop, AceableAgent, Kaplan Real Estate Education and OnlineEd each with their unique features and high satisfaction rates.
- Features to consider when choosing a school are course flexibility, interactive learning tools, pass guarantees, mobile accessibility and support resources.
- To get a California real estate license you must complete 135 hours of pre-licensing course, pass final exams, submit an application and take the state licensing exam.
Top Online Real Estate Schools in California
Choosing the best online real estate school and real estate license course known for its online availability and flexibility to students can make a big difference as a real estate agent. In California, several top schools stand out through their unique features and high student satisfaction rates. License Solution, The CE Shop, AceableAgent, Kaplan Real Estate Education and OnlineEd each offer different advantages from comprehensive learning tools to budget friendly options.
Let’s see what makes each of these schools a preferred choice for real estate professionals.
License Solution: Cost Effective with Clear and Easy to Understand Curriculum
License Solution offers extensive and affordable real estate learning programs to fit various study preferences including interactive courses, audio and video enhancements, flashcards, dictionary and AI powered virtual instructor. With personalized study plans students can study at their own pace making it perfect for those with busy schedules. The interactive courses use multimedia content to make complex real estate concepts easy to understand and experienced instructors provide guidance and support.To get exam ready License Solution offers practice tests and simulated exams that mirror the California real estate exam so students can assess their knowledge and build confidence. The AI powered virtual instructor enhances the learning experience with personalized feedback and adaptive learning. Focused on both knowledge and exam prep, License Solution is a top choice for future California real estate agents.
The CE Shop: Learning Tools
The CE Shop stands out with its innovative online real estate education and offers a array of resources to students. A key part of the required coursework offered by The CE Shop is real estate finance. A notable feature is the proprietary LEAP online dashboard which provides a seamless and interactive learning interface. This dashboard includes study tools designed to improve knowledge retention and exam readiness so students are well prepared for their licensing exams.
Besides the LEAP dashboard The CE Shop also offers industry leading exam prep and continuing education courses so aspiring real estate professionals have a comprehensive solution. Focused on high quality course materials and innovative learning tools the platform has high student satisfaction and pass rates.
AceableAgent: Mobile Courses
AceableAgent provides a unique learning experience with mobile friendly courses for on the go learning. The platform has a mobile app, audio courses, videos and mastery tracking so students can study anywhere. These features engage students and ensures they are exam ready.
Along with its mobile friendly design AceableAgent offers comprehensive exam prep resources including practice exams and tools to assess student understanding and weaknesses. So students can confidently pursue their real estate career.
Kaplan Real Estate Education: Exam Prep
Known for its exam prep courses Kaplan Real Estate Education is a great choice for real estate agents. Kaplan offers a comprehensive learning experience with readings, quizzes and interactive videos to help students understand real estate concepts.Kaplan’s exam prep includes practice tests that mirror state exam questions and a bank of practice questions so students feel confident and prepared. Students rave about the thoroughness of Kaplan’s exam prep materials saying they help with learner success.
OnlineEd: Budget Friendly
OnlineEd offers affordable self paced real estate courses to fit various learning styles so it’s a budget friendly option. Courses have curated lessons, videos and practice questions to keep students engaged.
OnlineEd’s price match guarantee ensures competitive pricing for their course packages. A free demo allows prospective students to try before they buy so it’s a cost effective choice for real estate professionals.
Top Online Real Estate Schools
What to consider when choosing an online real estate school
When choosing an online real estate school here are the key factors to consider:
- Course Content: Make sure the school offers pre-licensing courses that cover all the California DRE required topics. Courses should be engaging, interactive and easy to understand to provide a solid foundation in real estate principles, practice, finance and real estate appraisal.
- Pricing: Compare prices of different schools and what you get for your money. Some schools may offer package deals or discounts so be sure to ask about those. Look for schools with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
- Student Support: Look for a school that offers great student support including access to instructors, online resources and study materials. Good support makes a big difference in your learning experience and keeps you on track.
- Pass Rate: Check the school’s pass rate for the California real estate exam. A high pass rate means the school’s courses prepare students for the exam so you’ll have a better chance of success.
- Reputation: Research the school’s reputation online and read reviews from past students. A reputable school will have good reviews and a track record of helping students get licensed.
- Accreditation: Make sure the school is accredited/approved by the California DRE and meets all the state’s requirements for pre-licensing education. Accreditation means the courses are high quality and recognized by the state.
- Flexibility: Look for a school that offers flexible scheduling and online access so you can complete your courses at your own pace and on your own schedule. Especially important if you have other commitments.
- Exam Prep: Look for a school that offers exam prep materials and practice exams to help you prepare for the California real estate exam. These will boost your confidence and readiness for the test.
- Career Resources: Consider a school that offers career resources and job placement assistance to help you start your real estate career. Networking opportunities and career guidance are valuable as you begin.
- Customer Service: Look for a school with great customer service including responsive support staff and a user friendly website. Good customer service adds to your overall experience and provides timely help when you need it.
By considering these factors you can choose an online real estate school that meets your needs and helps you achieve your career goals. The right school will give you the knowledge, skills and support to succeed in the real estate industry.
Accreditation and State Approval
When choosing an online real estate school in California make sure the school is accredited and approved by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). Accreditation and state approval means the school meets the necessary standards and requirements to provide quality education and training.
Accreditation is a process where a third party organization evaluates the school’s curriculum, instructors and facilities to ensure they meet specific standards. In California the DRE accredits real estate schools. A DRE approved school means the education and training provided meets the state’s requirements for real estate licensing.
State approval is also important as it means the school’s curriculum aligns with the state’s real estate licensing requirements. A state approved school means the education and training provided will prepare students for the California real estate exam and a real estate career.
When looking at online real estate schools in California look for:
- State approval (accreditation)
- Clear and comprehensive curriculum that meets the state’s requirements
- Experienced instructors
- User friendly online platform with easy access to course materials and resources
By choosing an accredited and state approved online real estate school you can be sure you get quality education and training to prepare you for a real estate career.
Course Content and Study Materials
When looking at online real estate schools in California make sure to review the course content and study materials to ensure they meet your needs and prepare you for the California real estate exam.
Here are some things to consider when looking at course content and study materials:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Make sure the course covers all the subjects and topics required for the California real estate exam.
- Up-to-Date Materials: Make sure the study materials are current and reflect the latest changes in California real estate laws and regulations.
- Engaging and Interactive: Look for courses that use interactive and engaging study materials, videos, quizzes and games to keep you motivated and focused.
- Practice Exams and Quizzes: Make sure the course includes practice exams and quizzes to help you assess your knowledge and prepare for the California real estate exam.
- Study Guides and Resources: Look for courses that offer study guides and resources, flashcards and study groups to help you prepare for the exam.
Some online real estate schools in California offer the following course content and study materials:
- Real Estate Principles: This course covers the fundamental principles of real estate, property rights, contracts and ethics.
- Real Estate Practice: This course covers the practical aspects of real estate, marketing, financing and closing transactions.
- Real Estate Finance: This course covers the financial aspects of real estate, mortgage financing, appraisals and investments.
When looking at course content and study materials consider your learning style and preferences. Look for courses that offer flexible and interactive study materials that fit your needs and schedule.
Course Offerings and Pricing
Knowing the course offerings and pricing of each online real estate school is important to making an informed decision. Top schools in California offer packages ranging from basic pre-licensing courses to comprehensive bundles that include exam prep and continuing education.
Pricing varies and payment options are available through services like Paypal, Affirm and Klarna to help manage educational costs.
License Solution Packages
License Solution offers three different package options to meet varying educational needs. The Gold Package is the most comprehensive with the most study tools, it’s the top of the line. For those who want advanced study tools at a lower price the Silver Package is the way to go. For those with budget constraints or already have some real estate experience the Bronze Package is the solution.
Each package is designed to give students a complete learning experience so they are prepared for the California real estate exam. With a focus on flexibility and quality License Solution ensures every aspiring real estate agent can find a package that fits their needs and helps them achieve their career goals in the real estate industry.
The CE Shop Packages
The CE Shop offers packages for different levels of need in real estate education. The Premium Package includes pre-licensing courses and renewal course hours, a complete education for real estate professionals. Students get 6 months access to the Online Only Program, self paced learning.
These packages are designed to give students a thorough understanding of real estate principles and practices, preparing them for their licensing exams. The CE Shop’s commitment to quality education and flexible learning options makes them a popular choice.
AceableAgent Packages
AceableAgent offers pre-licensing packages for different needs. These include Deluxe, Premium and Standard options, each with different levels of support and resources. The Deluxe and Premium packages include instructor support, AI tools and live webinars so students have a complete learning experience.
These packages provides a lot of support for students preparing for their California real estate licensing exams, boosting their confidence and readiness for success.
Kaplan Real Estate Packages
Kaplan Real Estate offers courses for every stage of a real estate career, 7 broker course options. Their packages are for new and experienced real estate professionals. 6 months access allows students to complete their coursework and prep for exams.Kaplan offers job placement through partnered brokerages to help students transition into their real estate careers. This added support makes Kaplan a total solution for aspiring real estate agents.
OnlineEd Packages
OnlineEd offers 3 all-in-one packages approved by the Department of Real Estate (DRE) for pre-licensing education. These packages include coursework, mobile access and preparation for the California Real Estate Exam. OnlineEd price match guarantee ensures competitive pricing.
A free interactive demo allows students to try before they buy. This accessibility and affordability makes OnlineEd a popular choice for many aspiring real estate professionals.
Student Success Stories
Student success stories offer valuable insights into the effectiveness of online real estate courses. Testimonials from program graduates highlight how the features and resources of each school have helped them achieve their goals.
These stories of high satisfaction and passing rates demonstrate the real results of choosing the right online real estate school.
License Solution Success Stories
License Solution students rate the school with 5-stars, proof of their top-notch training materials and exam prep. Unmatched support is evident in their real reviews.
Let students take control of their education by studying at their own pace and getting great support and they will be a winner for any real estate school.
The CE Shop Success Stories
Many students have given positive reviews, saying the comprehensive and interactive course materials helped them feel ready for their licensing exams.
The CE Shop has helped many aspiring real estate agents achieve their goals through a supportive learning environment.
AceableAgent Success Stories
AceableAgent students report engagement with the mobile friendly courses, easy to study and pass licensing exams.
These success stories show the value of flexible and engaging learning options to help students achieve real estate success.
Kaplan Real Estate Success Stories
Many students find Kaplan’s courses helpful for passing licensing exams because of the interactive learning tools. Some students love Kaplan’s offerings, others have issues with course content and tech support so there’s room for improvement.
Kaplan Real Estate has many success stories from students who used its exam prep resources and these testimonials show how Kaplan’s interactive learning tools helped students prepare for exams.
OnlineEd Success Stories
OnlineEd’s affordable real estate courses make it possible for students to get their real estate education. Many students feel confident and prepared for their licensing exams after finishing OnlineEd’s courses.
OnlineEd’s self-paced format allows students to learn at their own speed and schedule, for busy lifestyles. Overall the budget-friendly and flexible courses have contributed to student success in becoming licensed real estate agents.
What to Look For
When choosing an online real estate school it’s important to look for certain key features that will enhance your learning experience and success.
Course flexibility, interactive learning tools, pass guarantees, mobile accessibility and robust support and resources are the basic concepts to look for in a preferred real estate school.
Course Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of online real estate education is the flexibility. Many online courses allow students to learn at their own pace which is great for those balancing school with personal and professional commitments. This flexibility is a game changer, allowing students to complete their coursework on their own schedule and at their own pace.
Ability to pause and resume lessons, revisit difficult topics and manage study time effectively makes online real estate courses perfect for those with busy schedules. The convenience of learning at your own pace ensures students can absorb the material thoroughly so they can understand and retain the basics.
Interactive Learning Tools
Interactive learning tools are key to keeping students engaged and understanding complex real estate concepts. The CE Shop and License Solution for example have comprehensive learning tools including quizzes, flashcards and practice tests to enhance the learning experience. Adding multimedia like videos and quizzes can make a big difference in student engagement and retention of information.
Students often say the engaging course design helps them retain information better and stay motivated throughout their studies. Kaplan’s interactive learning tools including practice tests and engaging presentations are often praised for helping students understand complex real estate concepts.
Pass Guarantees
Pass guarantees give students peace of mind by providing financial protection if they don’t pass the licensing exam on their first try. Some schools like Aceable or License Solution offer a pass guarantee, if you don’t pass on your first try you get a refund. This policy gives students confidence and allows them to invest in their education without fear of losing money if they don’t pass initially.
Mobile Accessibility
In today’s fast paced world mobile accessibility is a must have for any online course. License Solution’s courses offer flexibility, students can learn at their own pace through unique audio lessons that are like podcasts. Mobile friendly courses allow students to study from anywhere and be able to learn anytime, fit into any learning environment.
Students love the engaging content provided by License Solution which makes the learning experience better. Being able to access course materials on the go makes it easier for students to integrate their studies into their daily lives.
Support and Resources
Support and resources are key to student success in online real estate courses. Kaplan has daily live classes through its Learning Hub which provides real time support to students.
The CE Shop also has additional resources like exam prep and continuing education in their packages. Many Kaplan Real Estate alumni mention the valuable industry connections made during their courses which can help advance their real estate careers.
California Real Estate Exam Prep
Preparing for the California real estate exam requires a comprehensive understanding of real estate principles, practices and laws. Here are some tips and resources to help you prepare:
California real estate exam format and content overview
The California real estate exam is a multiple choice exam that consists of 150 multiple choice questions. The exam covers general real estate principles and practices, the state-specific portion covers California real estate laws and regulations. California does not require a national exam.
The exam format is:
- State-Specific Portion: 150 multiple choice questions
- Time Limit: 3 hours
- Passing Score: 70%
The exam content covers the following topics:
- Property Ownership and Land Use Controls and Regulations: Types of property, government rights in land, public controls, and environmental restrictions.
- Laws of Agency and Fiduciary Duties: Law, definition, and nature of agency relationships, disclosure of agency, and fiduciary duties.
- Property Valuation and Financial Analysis: Appraisals, methods of estimating value, and financial analysis.
- Financing: Types of loans, sources of financing, and government programs.
- Transfer of Property: Title insurance, deeds, escrow, and tax aspects of transferring property.
- Practice of Real Estate and Mandated Disclosures: Trust account management, fair housing laws, and disclosure requirements.
- Contracts: Listing agreements, purchase contracts, and other types of contracts.
- Real Estate Calculations: Math related to real estate transactions.
- General Real Estate Knowledge: Basic real estate concepts and terminology.
Tips to Pass the California Real Estate Exam
Here are some tips to help you prepare and pass the California real estate exam:
- Study Thoroughly: Review the course materials and study guides provided by your online real estate school.
- Practice with Sample Questions: Use online resources and practice exams to assess your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
- Focus on Key Topics: Pay attention to the most critical topics on the exam, real estate principles and California real estate laws and regulations.
- Manage Your Time: Make sure to allocate enough time for each section of the exam.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Take deep breaths and stay focused during the exam.
By following these tips and using the resources provided by your online real estate school you can increase your chances of passing the California real estate exam and becoming a licensed real estate agent.
How to Get a Real Estate License in California
Getting a real estate license in California involves several steps including enrolling in a pre-licensing course, completing required coursework, passing exams, submitting an application and taking the state licensing exam.
This section will guide you through the process and help you become a licensed real estate agent.
Enroll in a Pre-Licensing Course
The first step to get a real estate license is to enroll in a pre-licensing course approved by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). In California, this course requires 135 hours of coursework which can be completed online from providers like The CE Shop, AceableAgent or License Solution. Students have up to 12 months to complete their courses, so flexible learning schedules.
Choosing the right pre-licensing course is important as it sets the foundation for your real estate education. Look for courses that have comprehensive materials, interactive learning tools and flexible learning options to ensure a successful start to your real estate career.
Complete Required Coursework
To get a California real estate license you must complete 135 hours of required coursework which includes Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice and a third course on a real estate related topic. Each course requires a minimum of 45 hours and has mandatory chapter quizzes and final exams to ensure you master the material.
Completing the courses at an accredited institution is necessary to meet the eligibility requirements for the licensing exam. The coursework provides a solid foundation in real estate principles and practices preparing you for the real estate career.
Pass the Final Exams
Each of the three required courses has its own final exam that must be passed. The final exam for the Real Estate Principles course for example includes a review of the material and a comprehensive final exam covering all chapters. Online exam prep, unlimited practice tests and digital flashcards are included in all real estate course programs to help you prepare for the exams.
These resources such as downloadable documents are valuable in reviewing the coursework and making sure you are well prepared for the final exams.
Submit Your Application
After passing the final exams the next step is to submit an application to the California Department of Real Estate. This application process includes providing proof of completed coursework and passing grades along with other required documentation. A checklist is provided to guide you through the application process.
Help is available to make the application process smoother by ensuring all necessary information is included and submitted correctly. This step is key to moving forward to becoming a licensed real estate agent.
Take the State Licensing Exam
The final step in the licensing process is to take the state licensing exam which covers content from the pre-licensing courses and requires knowledge of various real estate topics. A thorough review and preparation is essential to set you up for success on the exam.
Passing the state licensing exam is the culmination of your hard work and dedication. With good preparation and the right resources you can take the exam confidence.
Summary
Choosing the right online real estate school is a big step in your journey to becoming a successful real estate agent in California. License Solution, The CE Shop, AceableAgent, Kaplan Real Estate Education and OnlineEd each have their own features and benefits to suit different learning styles and needs. From comprehensive exam prep to budget friendly options these schools have what you need for your success. Remember the key to a successful real estate career is choosing a school that has flexible learning, interactive tools, pass guarantees, mobile accessibility and robust support. Follow the steps in this guide and you can confidently navigate the process of getting your real estate license and start your real estate career.
FAQ
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in California?
It takes about four months on average to become a real estate agent in California though the time-frame can be from three months to a year depending on your pace. Remember, completing the 135 hours of Pre-Licensing education is required to get your license.
Can I take the California real estate exam online?
No, you cannot take the California real estate exam online; it must be taken in person. While pre-licensing education can be done online, the exam itself requires your physical presence.
Can I take classes online to be a realtor in California?
Yes, you can take classes online to become a realtor in California with options for self-paced and live online classes. This allows you to complete your pre-licensing requirements from home.
What are the key features to look for in an online real estate school?
When choosing an online real estate school prioritize course flexibility, interactive learning tools, pass guarantees, mobile accessibility and comprehensive support. These features will make your learning experience better and increase your chances of success.
How long does it take to complete the pre-licensing coursework?
The pre-licensing coursework in California is 135 hours and can be completed in a minimum of 54 days as required by the DRE. However, a flexible time-frame of up to 12 months is available from some schools so you can take your time if you wish to do so.
