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By Christopher Taylor•Last Updated September 18, 2025

How to Choose and Start Real Estate Classes: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Licensing Success

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

Introduction: The Path to a Real Estate Career

Pursuing a career in real estate offers the promise of flexibility, financial opportunity, and professional growth. One of the most important first steps is completing required real estate classes. These classes are designed to prepare you for the licensing exam, teach you industry essentials, and set the foundation for a successful career. This guide will walk you through exactly where and how you can take real estate classes, what to expect, and actionable steps to get started.

Understanding Real Estate Licensing Requirements

Each state establishes its own requirements for real estate licensing. Typically, you must:

Be at least 18 years old (some states require 19)
Complete a set number of hours in approved pre-licensing education (commonly 60-75 hours for salespersons)
Pass a state licensing exam
Submit a background check and licensing application

For example, Connecticut requires a 60-hour classroom or virtual course covering Real Estate Principles and Practices to qualify for the salesperson exam. Additional requirements apply for aspiring brokers, such as an extra 30 hours in specific subjects and documented transaction experience [1] .

Where to Take Real Estate Classes: Your Main Options

There are three primary pathways to completing real estate education:

1. Accredited Real Estate Schools

Specialized real estate schools offer focused pre-licensing and advanced classes. Leading options include:

Greater Bridgeport Board of REALTORSÂ® (RETES) provides 60-hour virtual courses for $400, including textbooks. Classes are available during daytime or evening hours to accommodate different schedules. Elective and broker management courses are also available [1] . To register, you must call 203-880-5661. This approach offers direct instructor support and structured learning.

Appraisal and Real Estate School of Connecticut in Stamford has served the region for over 40 years, offering in-person and evening classes, as well as advanced appraisal and broker courses. For enrollment details, contact (203) 326-3315 or email [email protected] [2] .

Connecticut Real Estate Institute (NREI) lets you complete the licensing course in as little as 7 weeks. They offer both licensing and continuing education (CE) classes and provide resources for exam prep. Visit their website for details on course schedules and registration [3] .

Alliance Real Estate School offers an online, flexible 60-hour pre-licensing course. You can start anytime and attend classes for as long as you need until you pass the state exam. This flexibility can be a major advantage for busy adults or career changers. After payment, students receive detailed instructions on joining classes and accessing textbooks. For more information, you can visit their official website [4] .

2. Community Colleges and Technical Schools

Some community colleges and state universities offer real estate licensing courses as part of their adult education or continuing education programs. These institutions may also provide credit toward a degree. To find available courses, check the official websites of your local community colleges or search for “real estate pre-licensing courses” on their course catalog.

If you cannot find a direct link, call the admissions or continuing education office and request information on current real estate class offerings. This pathway is ideal for those seeking an academic environment or exploring real estate alongside other career development options.

3. Online Real Estate Schools

Online learning has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility and convenience. Many accredited providers offer virtual classes or fully self-paced online courses. For example, Alliance Real Estate School and NREI both provide online licensing classes that allow you to study from home and progress at your own pace [4] [3] . Some online schools even guarantee that you can attend classes until you pass the state exam, providing peace of mind for those who need extra time or support.

How to Choose the Right Real Estate School

When selecting a school, consider the following:

Accreditation: Ensure the school is recognized by your state’s real estate commission.
Format: Decide whether you prefer in-person, virtual, or self-paced online classes.
Class Schedule: Choose a program that fits your availability-many offer evenings, weekends, or flexible start dates.
Student Support: Look for schools with high pass rates, experienced instructors, and strong student support systems.
Cost: Pricing varies, typically ranging from $400 to $600 for pre-licensing courses, sometimes including textbooks [1] .
Location: If you prefer in-person learning, choose a school within reasonable commuting distance.

Read student reviews, compare course details, and contact schools directly with questions. Many provide phone numbers or email addresses for inquiries.

Step-by-Step: How to Enroll in Real Estate Classes

Research providers: Use official school websites, state real estate commission resources, or recommendations from industry professionals.
Confirm accreditation: Check that the provider’s courses meet your state’s licensing requirements.
Contact the school: Call or email to ask about class start dates, schedules, registration steps, and payment methods. For example, to register with RETES, call 203-880-5661 [1] .
Register and pay: Complete the registration form, select your class dates, and submit payment. Some schools send instructions on accessing classes and materials after payment [4] .
Begin classes: Attend sessions as scheduled, participate in coursework, and prepare for the licensing exam.
Complete required hours: Ensure you fulfill all attendance and coursework requirements to receive your certificate of completion.

Examples of Real Estate Class Structures

Real estate classes are typically structured to cover:

Principles and practices of real estate
Real estate law and ethics
Property management basics
Finance and investment fundamentals
Preparation for the state licensing exam

Most schools offer a combination of lectures, interactive sessions, and practice exams. For instance, the Alliance Real Estate School allows students to return to classes until they pass, giving additional support [4] .

Continuing education (CE) and elective classes are available for licensed agents seeking to maintain or upgrade their credentials. NREI offers self-paced online CE courses in over 20 subjects [3] .

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Scheduling conflicts: If your work or family schedule changes, look for schools with flexible start dates, evening or weekend options, or online courses.

Cost concerns: Some schools offer payment plans or include textbooks in tuition. Compare total costs before enrolling.

Test anxiety: Choose programs with strong exam prep resources, high pass rates, or guarantees like “Come Until You Pass.” Seek tutoring or additional support if needed.

Uncertainty about accreditation: Always verify the school is approved by your state’s real estate commission before enrolling.

Alternative Pathways and Additional Resources

If you cannot find a traditional course that fits your needs, consider these alternatives:

Contact your state’s real estate commission for a list of approved schools and online providers.
Join professional associations, such as the National Association of REALTORSÂ®, for training resources and networking events.
Ask local real estate brokerages if they offer in-house training or can recommend trusted schools.
Explore online forums or social media groups for student reviews and advice.

For those in states outside Connecticut or New York, search your state’s department of real estate or real estate commission website for licensing information, approved schools, and current requirements.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Enrolling in real estate classes is the crucial first step toward a rewarding career. With a wide variety of accredited schools, flexible class formats, and robust support, you can find a program that fits your lifestyle and learning preferences. Begin by researching reputable providers, confirming accreditation, and contacting schools directly for class details and enrollment steps. If you have specific scheduling needs or learning preferences, look for schools that offer flexible or online formats. For those ready to take action, reach out to a school today or consult your state’s real estate commission for an up-to-date list of approved providers.