We are so excited to be growing our team here at EveryHome, and it’s not uncommon for brand new agents to inquire about any fees or other costs associated with becoming an agent. While the industry standard for real estate agencies is to charge new agents for things like training, mentorship, desk space, business cards, signs and headshots, we’re really lucky to provide all of these things entirely for free! There won’t ever be any fees here at EveryHome.
It’s important to note that there are some costs associated with becoming a brand new agent, however. In order to become licensed in the state of Pennsylvania, all prospective agents are required to take 60 hours of classes and successfully pass both a national and state exam.
These courses can be completed either online or in a classroom, and they typically range in price from $250 (at McKissock’s online school) up to $575 or so. Some schools will also require you to purchase materials, including a reference book for up to $80; we recommend you shop around to find the affordable program that suits you best.
Once you finish these 60 hours, you’ll schedule a time to take your exam. The exam currently costs $54. Upon successfully passing your examination and becoming affiliated with a real estate agency (like EveryHome!), you’re ready to submit your application to the state! The application fee is $141 and is made payable to the state.
After becoming fully licensed through the state, you have the option to join a local board of Realtors. While this is optional, the vast majority of agents choose to do so (you actually can’t call yourself a “Realtor” without joining since it’s a protected trade name!). The fees for these Boards can vary; Montgomery County Association of Realtors, for example, currently costs $525 per year, but this is pro-rated when you join (so if you become a member in July, for example, it will only cost approximately half). Additionally, this fee includes both your national (NAR) and state (PAR) Board of Realtors fees. New applicants are also required to pay $250 for a capital investment fee.
Joining the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is also helpful for real estate agents. Trend is the local MLS, and it is an invaluable tool for both assisting buyers as well as marketing your own listings. There is a $250 activation fee, and it costs $186 every six months ($372 annually).
It’s especially important to note that the above-listed fees do not include franchise fees or any costs associated with a specific agency. While EveryHome is proud to provide all services for agents free of charge (you’ll never write a check to EveryHome!), most agencies have pricey desk or mentorship fees. Be sure to ask about this when you interview with each agency!
If you’re interested in learning more about becoming an agent, we’d love to speak with you! Please give us a call at (215) 699-5555 or send an e-mail to theoffice@everyhome.com . All inquiries will remain confidential.