Veteran to Agent: How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Arizona

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be challenging for many veterans. One significant hurdle is finding a career that fits. Veterans are often natural problem solvers, highly goal-oriented, possess a strong work ethic, and thrive when their work provides a clear sense of purpose. This is why many veterans become real estate agents.

Let’s discuss why becoming a real estate professional is a good fit for many veterans. We’ll tell you how to become a real estate agent in Arizona and if there’s a special real estate license for veterans.

Key Takeaways

• The real estate industry provides veterans with opportunities to leverage their discipline, leadership, and communication skills. It allows them to build their own businesses, help clients, and achieve financial success while making a positive impact.
• Real estate offers veterans flexibility and independence to create their own schedules, making it ideal for balancing work, family, and personal goals. This freedom, combined with earning potential tied to effort, makes real estate a fulfilling career for veterans.
• While Arizona does not have a special license for veterans, they and their spouses may qualify for expedited processing and fee waivers for first-time licenses. Veterans licensed in other states may skip certain requirements, further streamlining the process.
• ASREB provides pre-licensing courses, exam preparation tools, and a 10% military discount on select programs. With experienced instructors and high pass rates, ASREB ensures veterans are well-equipped to transition into a successful real estate career.

Why Real Estate Can Be a Rewarding New Career for Veterans

The real estate industry offers veterans a distinctive opportunity to build their own businesses, excel in a field that rewards dedication and exceptional service, and assist others in achieving their dreams. Veterans accustomed to working with structured plans and accomplishing missions can thrive in this dynamic, goal-driven environment. Moreover, a real estate career enables veterans to continue making a positive impact while earning a significant income.

Transferable skills from military service to real estate

Veterans who become real estate agents can use many skills and traits they developed in the military to succeed in their new careers.

• Knowledge of VA Benefits: Veterans’ in-depth understanding of military benefits, such as VA home loans, makes them better able to assist their clients.
• Discipline: The discipline cultivated in the military is a critical factor in achieving success in real estate. Veterans excel at staying motivated, managing their time well, and staying organized to build their careers.
• Leadership: Veterans are natural leaders, whether they led a team in the field or coordinated large operations. In real estate, leadership skills are essential when guiding clients through complex transactions and negotiations.
• Communication: Both military service and real estate require clear and effective communication. Veterans can relay important information with precision, which is vital for helping clients navigate the buying or selling process.
• Networking: Frequent moves during military life often require veterans and their families to form new connections quickly. This natural skill is invaluable for real estate agents in growing their client networks.
• Built-In Niche: Many veteran real estate agents focus on military relocation services and VA loans. The relationships built during military service provide a strong advantage in serving this specialized market.

FAQ: Can you be a real estate agent while in the military?

Yes, you can work as a part-time real estate agent while serving in the military. Real estate is a great part-time job for military members or their spouses.

Job flexibility and independence

One of the most appealing aspects of a career in real estate is the freedom and independence it provides. Unlike typical 9-to-5 roles, real estate agents can create their own schedules, allowing for a better balance between work, family, and personal commitments. This level of flexibility is especially attractive to veterans, who appreciate the autonomy to make their own decisions and steer their careers in the direction they choose.

Potential for financial growth

Real estate agents in Arizona can make an excellent income. As a real estate agent, your earnings are often directly tied to effort, meaning veterans who apply their military work ethic may reap financial rewards.

Personal fulfillment

Few careers can match the sense of purpose that comes with military service. However, helping clients—particularly fellow servicemembers—achieve their goals by finding their dream homes or selling properties at the best price can also be deeply rewarding.

Steps to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent in Arizona

Are you intrigued by the idea of becoming a real estate agent? Here’s how to get your license in Arizona.

Step 1: Complete the pre-licensing education requirement

First, enroll in a 90-hour pre-licensing course and a 6-hour Introduction to Contract Writing course from a state-approved school, such as the Arizona School of Real Estate and Business (ASREB). These courses are available online, live-streamed, or in-person. ASREB provides experienced instructors and exam prep tools to help students succeed.

Step 2: Submit your fingerprints for a background check

Next, complete the fingerprinting process, which can be done at ASREB’s Scottsdale or Glendale locations or independently using a fingerprint kit. Submit your fingerprint card, application, and $67 fee to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Step 3: Pass the Arizona real estate exam

After completing the coursework, apply for and take the Arizona real estate salesperson exam, administered by PearsonVue. The exam costs $75, and you must provide two forms of identification and your Salesperson Education Certificate on test day. A passing score of 75% or higher is required.

Step 4: Submit your application

Once you pass the exam, submit your application and supporting documents to the Arizona Department of Real Estate through its online message center. Required documents include your application, exam score report, pre-licensing and contract writing certificates, fingerprint clearance card, and other forms. Applications must be submitted within one year of passing the exam.

Real Estate Licensure Assistance for Active Servicemembers and Veterans in Arizona

Is there a special real estate license for veterans in Arizona? While there is no special real estate license for veterans in AZ, military members and their spouses may be able to expedite the processing and receipt of their real estate licenses. In addition, those who are licensed in another state may be able to skip some of Arizona’s licensing requirements.

In addition, an honorably discharged veteran and a spouse of an active duty military servicemember may not have to pay their first-time real estate license fee. Applicants must submit a complete application for licensure with all supporting documentation in conjunction with a Fee Waiver Request.

Finally, ASREB offers a 10% military discount on select programs for qualifying military.

Real estate is an excellent career choice for veterans looking for a fresh challenge. Enroll in your real estate pre-licensing courses today with ASREB and take the first step toward your new career!