ransitioning from military service to civilian life can be a challenging journey for many veterans, particularly when it comes to finding a career that aligns with their skills and values. Veterans are often natural problem solvers, highly driven, possess a strong work ethic, and excel in roles that provide a clear sense of purpose. These qualities make real estate a great career choice for many veterans.
In this guide, we’ll explore why a career in real estate is an excellent fit for veterans, how to become a real estate agent in California, and whether special licensing options are available for veterans.
Key Takeaways
- Veterans excel in real estate due to their skills in discipline, leadership, communication, and problem-solving. This dynamic industry allows them to build their own businesses, assist clients—particularly fellow servicemembers—and achieve financial success.
- The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) expedites licensing applications for active-duty servicemembers, veterans, and their spouses. Veterans can use their military documentation to qualify for expedited processing, while military spouses may have their out-of-state licenses recognized during military orders.
- Real estate offers veterans and active-duty servicemembers flexibility, independence, and the potential for substantial income. It’s also a part-time option for military personnel and their spouses, making it a versatile career path.
- Veterans and spouses must complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education, pass the licensing exam with a score of at least 70%, and obtain sponsorship from a licensed broker. Applications can be submitted online or by mail for expedited processing.
Why Real Estate Can Be a Rewarding New Career for Veterans
The real estate industry provides veterans a unique opportunity to build their own businesses, excel in a field that values dedication and exceptional service, and help others achieve their dreams. With their experience in structured planning and mission-focused execution, veterans are well-suited for the dynamic and goal-driven real estate environment. Additionally, a career in real estate allows veterans to continue making a meaningful impact while earning a substantial income.
Transferable Skills from Military Service to Real Estate
Veterans bring a wealth of skills and traits from their military service that can greatly contribute to their success as real estate agents:
- Knowledge of VA Benefits: Veterans’ familiarity with military benefits, such as VA home loans, enables them to better assist clients, especially fellow servicemembers.
- Discipline: The self-discipline developed in the military is crucial in real estate for staying motivated, managing time effectively, and building a successful career.
- Leadership: Veterans possess natural leadership skills from leading teams or managing operations. These skills are essential for guiding clients through complex transactions and negotiations.
- Communication: Both military service and real estate require clear, effective communication. Veterans’ ability to convey important information precisely is invaluable when helping clients navigate buying or selling processes.
- Networking: Military life often involves frequent relocations, requiring veterans to establish new connections quickly. This adaptability is a significant asset for growing a client network in real estate.
- Built-In Niche: Many veteran agents specialize in military relocation services and VA loans, leveraging relationships and expertise developed during their service to serve this specialized market effectively.
FAQ: Can you be a real estate agent while in the military?
Yes, you can work as a part-time real estate agent or broker while serving in the military. Real estate is a great part-time job for military members or their spouses.
Job flexibility and independence
A career in real estate offers unparalleled freedom and independence, allowing agents to set their own schedules. Unlike traditional 9-to-5 jobs, this flexibility enables a healthier balance between work, family, and personal commitments. For veterans, this autonomy is especially appealing, providing the opportunity to take control of their career paths and tailor their work to their individual goals.
Potential for financial growth
Real estate agents in California have the potential to earn a substantial income. Because earnings are often directly tied to effort and results, veterans who bring their military work ethic to the field can achieve significant financial success.
Personal fulfillment
While few careers rival the sense of purpose found in military service, real estate can offer its own unique rewards. Helping clients—particularly fellow veterans and servicemembers—achieve their dreams of finding the perfect home or selling a property at the best price can be a deeply satisfying experience.
Steps to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent in California
Are you intrigued by the idea of becoming a real estate agent? Here’s how to get your license in California.
Step 1: Complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education
Real estate pre-licensing courses can be taken online or in person. Online options are flexible and ideal for quick completion and allow you to learn at your own pace.
Step 2: Apply for the salesperson examination
Submit a Salesperson Examination Application or a Combined Salesperson Examination and License Application. Visit the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) website for detailed application instructions.
Step 3: Submit fingerprints for a background check
All real estate agents must pass a background check. Submit your fingerprints either after passing the exam or submitting the exam application.
Step 4: Pass the licensing exam
You must score at least 70% on the 150-question exam to earn your California real estate license.
Step 5: Obtain sponsorship from a licensed broker
Real estate agents must work under the supervision of a licensed broker. Select a broker that aligns with your professional goals and working style.
Real Estate Licensure Assistance for Active Servicemembers and Veterans in California
Is there a special real estate license for veterans in California? While there is no special real estate license for veterans in CA, military members and their spouses may be able to expedite the processing and receipt of their real estate licenses.
Here are the benefits for active servicemembers, veterans, and their spouses.
Active servicemembers who want to earn a real estate license in California
The California (DRE) expedites licensure applications for active-duty servicemembers. To apply for a California real estate license, servicemembers must submit the appropriate application, qualifications, fees, and a copy of their current military ID or military orders. Applications can be submitted online through the DRE’s eLicensing portal or by mail to the DRE office in Sacramento.
Servicemembers or their spouses with valid out-of-state real estate licenses can work in California. The license must have been actively used within the past two years, remain in good standing, and comply with DRE standards, including continuing education. Applicants must complete an online registration application, submit military orders showing relocation to California, and license verification from issuing jurisdictions.
Contact the DRE Licensing Division at (877) 373-4542 or [email protected] for assistance.
Veterans who want to earn a real estate license in California
The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) offers expedited processing for licensure applications from honorably discharged U.S. Armed Forces members. To qualify, applicants must submit a complete application package, including required fees and qualifications, along with a copy of one of the following documents: DD Form 214, NGB Form 22, or another Honorable Discharge certificate (copies only, no originals).
Applications can be submitted online via the DRE eLicensing portal or by mail to the Military Section at the DRE office in Sacramento. For additional support, visit the DRE Examinee Home Page or contact the Licensing Division at (877) 373-4542 or [email protected].
To learn more about the GI Bill and licensing costs, consult the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.
Military spouses who want to earn a real estate license in California
Spouses or domestic partners of active-duty military servicemembers can have their California real estate license applications expedited by the Department of Real Estate (DRE). The application packet must include the completed application, qualifications, fees, and evidence of the marital or domestic partnership with an active-duty servicemember stationed in California under official orders. Applications can be submitted online through DRE’s eLicensing portal or mailed to the DRE office in Sacramento for expedited processing.
Spouses of active-duty servicemembers licensed in another state can have their license recognized in California during the duration of military orders. The license must have been actively used within the past two years and remain in good standing with all licensing authorities.
Applicants must complete the DRE’s Online Registration Application, providing their legal name, Social Security or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, California address, email, phone number, and a copy of military orders showing relocation to California. They must also submit verification from each licensing authority confirming that their out-of-state license is in good standing. For questions or assistance, contact DRE’s Licensing Division.
Real estate is an excellent career choice for veterans looking for a fresh challenge. Enroll in your real estate pre-licensing courses today with Allied Schools and take the first step toward your new career!
