Studying For The Exam To Become A Real Estate Agent In Wisconsin
If you want to become a real estate agent in Wisconsin, you will be happy to know that the state is home to a variety of fine educational establishments that aid salespeople and brokers when it comes to fulfilling their goal of becoming a real estate agent in Wisconsin. Community colleges such as Blackhawk Technical College and Western Technical College and private schools such as the ABC School of Real Estate in Appleton are some examples of excellent schools available.
NOTE: From hereon, the term agent and salesperson is interchangeable.
WI Real Estate Industry Oversight
If you want to become a real estate agent in Wisconsin, know that the Real Estate Board in Wisconsin is controlled by the state Department of Regulation and Licensing. The purpose of the Department is to protect the interest of citizens and they regulate more than 100 businesses statewide. The Wisconsin Real Estate Board is one arm of the Department and is made up of six members, three of whom are members of the public while the other three individuals are experienced and licensed real estate brokers in Wisconsin.
Eligibility To Become A Real Estate Salesperson In Wisconsin
Wisconsin is unusual insofar as it has a pre-salesperson license called an apprentice license. This is the first step towards becoming a real estate salesperson and involves working 20 hours a week over a minimum of three days under the watchful eye of a licensed broker. Six of these hours must be spent on classroom study.
Once you meet the apprentice license requirements, you need to complete 72 hours of pre-exam education. This requirement is waived if you show proof that you’ve completed 10 hours worth of real estate courses in a third level institution. If you are in the Wisconsin State Bar and have a Certificate of Good Standing, this may also be enough to avoid the pre-exam educational requirements.
Wisconsin Real Estate Exam Information
To become a real estate in Wisconsin, you will need to register with Pearson Vue. It is the independent organization who control the exams. They charge real estate salespeople and brokers $69 for their respective examinations.
Renewing Your Wisconsin Real Estate License
It costs $75 for the initial real estate license to practice in Wisconsin and $82 to renew it. All licensees have to complete their 18 hours of classroom education during the two years of being licensed. A real estate agent license will expire on 31 December during even numbered years (2012, 2014). If you try and renew your license after five years, you will be made to pay $107. It should be noted that there is the option of choosing a test involving 60 questions instead of the continuing education requirement. Pass this and you’ll be eligible for renewal.
Wisconsin Real Estate License Reciprocity Agreements And Additional Information
There are two states that have reciprocity agreements with Wisconsin: Indiana and Illinois. If you are applying from either state, expect to pay $83 for a salesperson license and $128 for a broker’s license. Non-residents can take the Wisconsin Reciprocity Course before the exam as long as they show evidence that they have held a salesperson’s license in another state within two years of applying for the license in Wisconsin.
Next Step: Becoming A Wisconsin Real Estate Broker
If you are hoping to become a broker and are from the state of Wisconsin, you need to complete 36 hours of pre-exam education. Non-residents must add this requirement to their 72 hours of education that must be performed. Show evidence of 20 hours worth of real estate courses in an accredited college and this requirement is waived. The continued education requirement is 18 hours of real estate classes within the two year license period.