Massachusetts Real Estate Licenses
This comprehensive guide to obtaining a Massachusetts real estate license provides all the essential information, including real estate continuing education requirements.
It’s for everyone in the state, with additional resources for those in Boston (MA) and other major areas.
We cover the best real estate classes and online courses available, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in Massachusetts’s real estate market.
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If you’re seriously interested in getting your real estate license, here are some great additional resources:
Requirements
To become a real estate agent in Massachusetts, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Like all US states, Massachusetts allows out-of-state applicants, so you do not need to reside there to become licensed as a real estate agent.
Pre-Licensing Education
Complete 40 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons. These courses include:
- Salesperson Pre-License Course (40 hours)
Massachusetts Real Estate Exam
Exam Structure
- Total Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
- National Portion: 80 questions
- State-Specific Portion: 40 questions
- Time Limit: 4 hours
- Passing Score: 70% on each section
Registration and Fees
- Exam Fee: $85, payable when scheduling the exam
- Registration: First, complete the pre-licensing education, then submit your initial application via the Massachusetts Real Estate Commission (MREC) website. Once approved, register for the exam through PSI Services.
Identification Documents
- Candidates must bring two forms of identification on exam day, including a government-issued photo ID with a signature (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
Exam Difficulty and Passing Rates
The Massachusetts Real Estate Exam is considered moderately challenging. Candidates must pass both the national and state portions with a minimum score of 70%.
Required Forms and Documents
- Initial Application: Submit the initial application after completing pre-licensing education. Forms and further details can be found on the MREC Initial License Applications page.
Background Check
Initial Application Submission
- Submit your initial license application to the Massachusetts Real Estate Commission (MREC) after completing your pre-licensing education. This allows you to receive the Exam Authorization Form required for scheduling your exam.
Fingerprinting
- Approved Vendor: Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting through IdentoGO. The fee is approximately $50.
- Processing: The fingerprints are processed by the Massachusetts State Police and the FBI. The results are sent directly to the Massachusetts Real Estate Commission.
Review and Approval
- The Massachusetts Real Estate Commission reviews the background check results as part of the licensure application.
Application
- Fee: $150
- Submission: After passing the exam, submit the final application to the MREC. Include proof of passing the exam, background check results, and proof of errors and omissions insurance.
By following these steps and ensuring all requirements are met, candidates can smoothly navigate the process of obtaining and maintaining a real estate license in Massachusetts.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the Massachusetts Real Estate Commission’s website.
Post-Licensing Education
Massachusetts does not require post-licensing education for new real estate agents.
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years before renewing your license. This includes mandatory courses and elective courses to stay updated with industry changes and legal requirements.
Massachusetts Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Massachusetts offers a range of excellent online real estate education options, with most major providers offering digital courses. Kaplan stands out as the top choice, outperforming Colibri with its impressive pass rates, excellent customer satisfaction, and high-quality course materials.
If you’re exploring other options, we’ve arranged special discounts for additional programs. The CE Shop is the most budget-friendly choice, and by combining our 30% discount with their 20% military discount, you can maximize your savings.
Though all the courses are reasonably priced, Kaplan remains our top recommendation due to its strong reputation and high success rates. If you’re aiming for the best start in your real estate career, it’s definitely worth considering.
1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Massachusetts, providing a solid self-paced curriculum.
Pros
- Most affordable: The 30% discount makes it the cheapest option.
- Self-paced: Flexibility for students to study at their own speed.
Cons
- Mixed reviews: Some students report engagement issues and customer service problems.
- No live instruction: Entirely self-paced learning.
Get 30% off with Discount Code “INBOUNDREM” using our CE Shop discount link.
2. Kaplan Real Estate
Kaplan Real Estate offers a structured learning experience for Massachusetts students, with live online and self-paced formats.
Pros
- Multiple formats: Offers live online classes and self-paced options.
- Experienced instructors: Known for delivering high-quality education.
Cons
- Higher cost: More expensive than budget options, but justified for quality.
Get 10% off with our Kaplan Real Estate discount link.
3. Colibri Real Estate
Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for Massachusetts students.
Pros
- Flexible formats: Self-paced and live webinars available.
- Pass guarantee: Refund if you don’t pass the state exam.
Cons
- Additional costs: Study resources may increase the total price.
Up to 15% off with our Colibri Real Estate discount link.
In-Person Options by Major Cities
Boston
- Boston Real Estate Institute: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Bunker Hill Community College: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Worcester
- Quinsigamond Community College: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®: Provides in-person real estate education.
Springfield
- Springfield Technical Community College: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Massachusetts offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Connecticut
- Georgia
- Iowa
- Nebraska
- New York
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Massachusetts real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
Massachusetts offers partial reciprocity with other states. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, you may qualify for a waiver of some of the pre-licensing education requirements.
You will still need to pass the Massachusetts state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Massachusetts, you must:
- Have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 40 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Massachusetts Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons
Criminal Record
The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis.
If you have a felony or other serious criminal conviction, you may still apply for a real estate license, but the Board will consider the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the conviction, and evidence of rehabilitation.
Crimes involving fraud, theft, or moral turpitude are particularly scrutinized.
It’s recommended to contact the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $635 – $1,135 |
Pre-License Education | $300 – $600 |
Exam Fee | $85 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $150 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons:
- Street Address: 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118-6100
- Telephone: (617) 701-8661
- Email: realestateboard@mass.gov
- Division of Occupational Licensure
- License Lookup Website
- Contact the MA Board via Email
- PSI Examination Services: (800) 733-9267
Document Checklist
- Proof of age (ID, birth certificate)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Completion certificates for 40 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Massachusetts
- Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete 40 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Massachusetts Real Estate Salesperson Examination through PSI. Study for and pass the exam, ensuring you achieve a minimum score of 70% on both the national and state-specific portions. Pay the exam fee of $85.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through a Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons, including the application fee of $150.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Massachusetts real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Massachusetts.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 12 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Massachusetts Real Estate Agent Salary
In Massachusetts, real estate agents earn an average salary of $94,691 per year, with a common range between $40,000 and $175,000.
The median salary is around $90,000, suggesting a balanced distribution of income among agents.
Top earners, particularly in affluent areas like Boston and its suburbs, can exceed $220,000 annually.
The state’s real estate market is buoyed by high property values and a strong economy, offering significant earning potential.
However, Massachusetts’ high cost of living can offset these earnings, making it crucial for agents to excel in their field.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Massachusetts if I have a felony?
The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis. Certain felonies, particularly those involving fraud or moral turpitude, may disqualify you. Contact the Board for specific inquiries.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Massachusetts?
It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the pre-license education, pass the exam, and obtain your license.
What is the cost to become a real estate agent in Massachusetts?
The total estimated cost ranges from $635 to $1,135, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Massachusetts have reciprocity with other states?
Massachusetts has full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Massachusetts state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Massachusetts involves meeting educational requirements, passing an exam, undergoing a background check, and completing continuing education.
By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can successfully start and maintain your real estate career in Massachusetts.
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We have an agreement with The CE Shop to promote online course information to consumers and real estate licensees. We are not the developer of these courses and is simply providing a referral. All education is provided by The CE Shop and any questions regarding course content or course technology should be directed to The CE Shop.
