How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Michigan

how to become a real estate agent
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Table of Contents

Michigan Real Estate Licenses

This guide provides all the essential information for obtaining a Michigan real estate license, including the state’s real estate continuing education requirements.

It caters to everyone in the state, with extra resources for major cities like Detroit (MI).

We explore the best real estate classes and online courses available, providing comprehensive resources to help you succeed in Michigan’s real estate market.

Don't Become a Realtor If...

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 Michigan, 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, Michigan 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 Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). These courses include:

  • Salesperson Pre-License Course (40 hours)

Examination

Michigan Real Estate Exam Details

Exam Structure

  • Total Questions: 115 multiple-choice questions
  • National Portion: 80 questions
  • State-Specific Portion: 35 questions
  • Time Limit: 3 hours
  • Passing Score: 70% on each section

Registration and Fees

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 Michigan 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

Background Check

  1. Initial Application Submission
  2. Fingerprinting
    • Approved Vendor: Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting through IdentoGO or another approved vendor. The fee is approximately $50.
    • Processing: The fingerprints are processed by the Michigan State Police and the FBI. The results are sent directly to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
  3. Review and Approval
    • The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs reviews the background check results as part of the licensure application.

Application

  • Fee: $88
  • Submission: After passing the exam, submit the final application to LARA. 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 Michigan. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs website.

Post-Licensing Education

Michigan does not require post-licensing education for new real estate agents.

Continuing Education

Courses: New sales associate licensees must complete 18 hours of continuing education every three years for license renewal. This includes:

  • Mandatory Hours (6 hours)
    • Legal updates and other required topics as outlined by LARA
  • Elective Hours (12 hours)
    • Various elective topics approved by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Michigan Real Estate Education Options

Online Options

Michigan offers a variety of top-notch online real estate education options, with a selection of reputable schools providing comprehensive digital courses designed to help you obtain your real estate license.

Aceable Agent is a standout choice in Michigan, known for its impressive pass rates, excellent customer reviews, and high-quality course materials, making it a top option for aspiring real estate agents.

Michigan residents are fortunate to have access to Aceable Agent’s courses, which are available in select states, including Michigan.

While Aceable Agent isn’t available nationwide, its curriculum remains exceptional wherever it is offered. Be sure to take advantage of the exclusive 10% discount we’ve arranged for you below.

If you’re considering other options, we’ve also secured special discounts for additional programs. The CE Shop is a budget-friendly alternative, and if you combine our 30% discount with their 20% military discount, you can save even more.

Ultimately, while all of these courses are reasonably priced, we highly recommend Aceable Agent for the best combination of value and success. If their pricing is slightly higher than expected, it may be worth investing a bit more to ensure you receive the best possible foundation for your real estate career.

1. Aceable Agent – Best Overall Course

Aceable Agent is the best choice for real estate education in Michigan, offering a mobile-first platform and engaging content.

Pros

  • Mobile-first platform: Study anywhere, anytime.
  • Interactive content: Engaging quizzes, videos, and real-world scenarios.
  • High pass rates: Proven success in preparing students for licensing exams.

Cons

  • Slightly higher pricing: More expensive without discounts, but worth it.

Up to 20% off with our Aceable Agent discount link.

2. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course

The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Michigan, 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.

3. Kaplan Real Estate

Kaplan Real Estate offers a structured learning experience for Michigan 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.

4. Colibri Real Estate

Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for Michigan 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

Detroit:

Grand Rapids:

Lansing:

Reciprocity

Full Reciprocity

Michigan does not offer full reciprocity with any state.

Partial Reciprocity

Michigan offers partial reciprocity. 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 Michigan state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.

For detailed information and required forms, visit the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Reciprocity Information.

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Broker's License

To become a real estate broker in Michigan, you must:

  • Have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
  • Complete 90 hours of broker pre-license education
  • Pass the Michigan Real Estate Broker Examination
  • Submit a broker license application to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Criminal Record

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs 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 Department 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 Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.

Cost Breakdown

Item
Cost Range
Total
$567 – $1,067
Pre-License Education
$300 – $600
Exam Fee
$79
Background Check
$50 – $100
Application Fee
$88
Continuing Education
$50 – $200 per cycle

Resources and Contacts

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 Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
  • Payment for application fee

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Michigan

  1. 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).
  2. Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete 40 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
  3. Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Michigan 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 $79.
  4. Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through a Michigan State Police-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
  5. Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, including the application fee of $88.
  6. Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Michigan real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
  7. Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Michigan.
  8. Complete Continuing Education: Every three years, complete 18 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.

Michigan Real Estate Agent Salary

In Michigan, real estate agents earn an average salary of $67,394 per year, with a typical range from $30,000 to $120,000.

The median salary is $65,000, indicating a modest distribution of income. Top agents, especially in vibrant markets like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can earn over $150,000 annually.

Michigan’s real estate market offers a variety of opportunities, from urban to suburban and rural areas.

The state’s relatively low cost of living further enhances the value of these earnings, making it a practical market for agents to build their careers.

FAQs

Can I become a real estate agent in Michigan if I have a felony?

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs 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 Department for specific inquiries.

How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Michigan?

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 Michigan?

The total estimated cost ranges from $567 to $1,067, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.

Does Michigan have reciprocity with other states?

Michigan does not offer full reciprocity but offers partial reciprocity with other states. You may need to pass the Michigan state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.

Summary

Becoming a real estate agent in Michigan 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 Michigan.

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Disclosure: Some of these links are affiliate links that give us a commission at no extra cost to you. In some cases, you can even receive discounts via our links. If you found our content helpful, please use them.

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.

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