Embarking on a career in real estate can open the doors to many exciting opportunities and financial benefits. For individuals in Maryland eyeing a real estate career, getting familiar with some of the top-notch real estate schools in the area is essential. These schools offer a valuable foundation for your journey in the real estate industry, providing high-quality courses and other resources to assist in passing your licensure exams and meeting your career needs. Let’s have a look at some of these esteemed educational institutions.
1. The CE Shop
As a leading real estate school, The CE Shop is an online platform that offers a comprehensive, interactive education experience. They provide pre-licensing, exam preparation, post-licensing, and continuing education courses. Their curriculum is specifically designed to help students excel in the field of real estate and pass licensure exams on their first try. If you value flexibility and self-paced learning, this online school could be an excellent choice for you.
2. Real Estate Express
Another top-rated, fully online school is Real Estate Express. With an emphasis on affordability and flexibility, this institution offers several packages for prospective real estate agents, from basic pre-licensing classes to more premium options that include exam prep and continuing education credits. Their text-based platform is perfect for learners who excel in reading and studying at their own pace.
3. Brightwood College (Kaplan Real Estate Education)
Once known as Brightwood College, Kaplan Real Estate Education is known for offering a diverse learning environment. They provide online and onsite real estate courses, allowing students to select their preferred learning model. With their express or comprehensive study classes, you can choose the course intensity that best fits your schedule and habits. They even offer a Kaplan Qbank, an online tool that allows for customized real estate practice exams.
4. Champions School of Real Estate
Champions School of Real Estate, while a Texas-based establishment, provides online real estate education services to students all over the United States, including Maryland. Boasting a solid reputation, they offer access to top-tier pre-licensing, exam prep, and continuing education resources. With their nationally recognized curriculum, learners can expect to understand the complex world of real estate better.
5. Long & Foster Institute
The Long & Foster Institute is recognized for its comprehensive real estate educational services. The institute, named after the largest privately-owned real estate company in the country, provides online and in-person classes. They offer a specifically designed curriculum for pre-licensing, exam prep, post-licensing, continuing education, and several business-building classes.
6. Real Estate Empower, Inc.
For those individuals who wish to have face-to-face instruction and enjoy interactive classrooms, Real Estate Empower, Inc. may be the place for you. The institute offers a physical classroom experience, along with comprehensive online classes. Their teaching approach aims to make students feel empowered and confident in conquering their real estate exams and future business transactions.
Starting Your Real Estate Career
Availability of Choices: Online vs. In-person Classes
Whether you prefer studying within the comfort of your home or being part of a physical classroom with face-to-face interaction, there’s an option for everyone. With the ongoing effects of COVID-19, most schools have adapted by making their courses accessible online.
If you thrive in a distraction-free environment and enjoy self-paced learning, online classes can be an effective way to grasp the materials. It’s also great for anyone wanting to learn at their own pace in their own space. On the other hand, if you’re someone who appreciates immediate feedback, direct mentoring, or learning through group discussions, you might find in-person classes more beneficial.
The Cost
Although cost shouldn’t be the only determining factor, it is a consideration for most people. Online schools like The CE Shop and Real Estate Express are popular due to their affordable pricing options. However, you should evaluate the features of each payment plan and choose what best suits your budget and learning needs, as some packages might offer additional resources like exam prep guides, business-building classes, or superior customer support.
Choosing the Right School
While the schools mentioned above are some of the top-rated in Maryland, it is still crucial to do personal research before finalizing your decision. Factors such as course availability, study materials, instructor qualifications, school reputation, student testimonials, and pass rates can help gauge which institution best aligns with your career goals.
Preparing for the Licensure Exam
Professionals recommend treating real estate school like a full-time job. It means dedicating a significant amount of your day to studying and understanding all the concepts. In addition to course materials, make use of supplementary resources, such as practice tests and flashcards, to enhance your preparation for the licensing exam. Remember, the real estate examination is not just a means to licensure but a stepping stone on understanding and excelling in the industry.
Continuous Learning
The initial real estate license is just the beginning. The real estate profession is dynamic, and to stay competitive, one needs to engage in continuous learning. Most real state schools offer post-licensing and continuing education courses that help you stay current with industry updates and refine your business skills.
In conclusion, selecting a real estate school is a critical step in your career journey. It sets the foundation you will build your professional life upon. Therefore, invest time in researching the suitable options for you and take the first step towards a rewarding real estate career in the beautiful state of Maryland. With the right mindset, effort, and preparation, success is inevitable.
