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Discover the advantages of having a real estate license — and whether or not you need one to flip houses — in this guide.
We’ll start by asking: Do you need a real estate license to flip houses in 2024?
Is that ⬆️ question stopping you from jumping into your first investment property?
Well, not anymore!
Get all of your questions about whether you need a real estate license to flip houses answered right here.
Let’s hop to it!
Freedom is what makes flipping houses for profit so attractive to many first-time real estate investors.
But, you may be wondering whether you’re qualified to start buying and selling properties if you don’t have a real estate license.
So, do you need a real estate license to flip houses?
Get the answers before you start hunting for your first flip property…
Nope! (3 cheers!)
You don’t need a real estate license to flip houses. But, the deeper answer is more nuanced than that.
So let’s dive deeper…
Do you need a real estate license to flip houses if you want to flip a large number of homes each year?
Do you need a real estate license to flip houses in any state?
Do you need a real estate license to flip houses if you want to sell a home without help from an agent?
Do you need a real estate license to flip houses if you make a certain amount of money?
Do you need a real estate license to flip houses if you are getting financing through a bank?
Do you need a real estate license to flip houses if you are using crowdsourcing?
I do want to point out that you might be confused about the answer to “do you need a real estate license to flip houses?” simply because so many people who make money flipping homes do have real estate licenses.
The reason why is that there are many perks to getting licensed.
When it comes to questions about whether you need a real estate license to flip houses across the country… it’s really more about it being beneficial even, though it’s not a requirement.
So, here’s a look at even more helpful info about having a real estate license to flip houses versus going unlicensed…
An investor with a real estate license makes you an “insider” in the property market. Here’s a look at the pros of getting a license:
Do you need a real estate license to flip houses?
Like I’ve said: nope.
That’s why some view obtaining your license as an unnecessary investment, if your sole goal is to begin flipping homes as quickly as possible.
It typically takes around six months of intensive preparation to become a licensed real estate agent. In most states, agents must complete 60 to 180 hours of pre-licensing education.
If you’re interested in getting your real estate license to flip houses, it includes:
Here’s how to do it step by step.
Each state will require you to complete a specific number of course hours before you can get your license. Requirements range anywhere from 60 to 180 hours, which can be a lot of time!
Make sure to take classes with a state-accredited provider.
Keep in mind that both in-person and online options are available.
Once you’ve completed the course, you will need to sign up for the real estate license exam.
Exams are held throughout the year and usually require a registration fee.
Now it’s time to pass the exam, which takes anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours to complete!
The exam will cover key concepts you learned in your real estate education courses.
Once you’ve passed the exam, you can apply for your real estate license.
You’ll need to submit proof of course completion and your exam results.
You’ll also need to pay licensing fees, complete a background check and submit fingerprints.
After that, congratulations — you’re a licensed real estate agent!
We’ve clearly established that you DON’T need a real estate license to flip houses.
But, you may be wondering what is needed if you forgo a real estate license.
The simple answer is that you need a plan…
So, here’s a quick blueprint for how to get started with your first income-generating property now that you know that the answer to whether you need a real estate license to flip houses is no.
Here’s where I think some confusion comes in about licensing…
As an investor, when you have a property under contract, you’re going to market the contract NOT the property. If you were to market the property and you don’t have a license, that’s brokering and it is illegal.
So, make sure you are marketing the CONTRACT not the PROPERTY when looking for end-buyers.
Only a licensed real estate agent can broker deals; you as an investor can advertise the contract.
Of course, if you’re a licensed investor, you can do both. 🙂
Ok party people, for the last time…
Do you need a real estate license to flip houses?
No!
No special licenses or certifications are needed to begin flipping houses!
But, successful house flippers essentially need to have the knowledge and mindset of a professional real estate agent.
For some, going through the process of obtaining licensing is worth it. For others, self-education is a free way to gain the knowledge needed to start investing in fixer-upper properties with confidence.
Now that you’ve plenty of info about whether to be licensed or not… it’s up to you to decide.
Happy investing!
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