Wondering if there’s still a demand for real estate agents in California—and how to get your license? California real estate agents remain essential, perhaps now more than ever. With a stabilizing market and growing inventory, opportunities are expanding for licensed professionals who can guide clients through complex transactions.
Key Takeaways
- Growing Market Activity: The California Association of REALTORS (CAR) forecasts a 3.6% rise in median home prices for 2026.
- More Inventory: Active listings are projected to increase by nearly 10% in 2026, providing agents with more inventory to sell and buyers with more choices.
- Steady Career Demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for real estate brokers and sales agents to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034.
The 2026 Market: A Landscape of Opportunity
Despite economic fluctuations over the last few years, the California real estate market is showing signs of positive momentum in 2026. According to the California Association of REALTORS (CAR) 2026 Housing Market Forecast, the state is expecting a 2% increase in existing single-family home sales, totaling 274,400 units.
Furthermore, home values continue to climb. The median home price is forecast to reach a new record of $905,000, a 3.6% increase from 2025. This increase in property value directly translates into higher commission potential for agents.
Why Real Estate Agents Are in High Demand in California
A shift is occurring in the market: inventory is returning. CAR predicts active listings will rise by nearly 10% in 2026.
This increase in supply means buyers who previously sat out due to intense competition are re-entering the market. However, with housing affordability at a historic low and mortgage rates forecast to stabilize near 6.0%, these buyers need expert guidance more than ever. They need skilled agents to help them find the right property, navigate financing, and negotiate fair terms.
Whether you’re representing a seller capitalizing on record-high prices or a buyer navigating increased inventory, your expertise as a licensed agent is the key to their success.
A Stable Career Path
Beyond the immediate market stats, real estate offers long-term career viability. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of real estate brokers and sales agents will grow by 3% through 2034, with an average of 46,300 job openings each year nationwide.
In a state like California, where property values are among the highest in the nation, breaking into the industry offers a unique pathway to building significant wealth.
How to Get Licensed in California
If you are ready to seize this opportunity, here is how you can get started:
Step 1: Complete 135 hours of approved pre-licensing education through a trusted real estate school.
Step 2: Submit your fingerprints for a background check as part of the licensing process.
Step 3: Pass the California Real Estate Licensing Exam with a score of 70% or higher.
Step 4: Obtain a sponsorship from a licensed California broker to begin your real estate career.
There’s no better way to launch your new career than with the school that has been a leader in California real estate education for over 30 years. Join the 350,000+ California students who have trusted Allied to help them get licensed.
Why Choose Allied for Your Pre-Licensing Education?
- California Expertise: We know the California market inside and out. Our curriculum is developed and taught by local industry experts who understand the nuances of working in this state.
- Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee: We are confident in our program. If you don’t pass your state exam on the first try, we will refund the cost of your pre-licensing course package.
- Flexible Learning Options: Whether you prefer the structure of livestream classes or the freedom of self-paced online courses, we have a format that fits your schedule.
- Comprehensive Exam Prep: Walk into exam day with total confidence using our industry-leading exam prep tools, powered by CompuCram.
