Table of Contents
If you want to become a real estate agent in Montana, it can be daunting. The state has strict requirements that must be met before an individual is eligible for licensure as a Realtor. These qualifications include completing 60 hours of coursework and passing the National Association of Realtors test with at least 75 percent accuracy on their first try within five years or 100 hours after taking the exam more than once within those five consecutive years.
You must finish 70 hours of preLicensing courses recognized by the Montana Board of Realty Regulation before becoming a real estate agent in Montana (MBRR). In addition to taking real estate courses, you must pass the real estate test, locate a sponsoring brokerage to work with, and apply for your Montana real estate license before you can legally practice real estate in Montana.
To learn more about the process of becoming a real estate agent, see our step-by-step guide.
1. Comply with Montana’s Legislative Requirements
To get a real estate license in Montana, you must first complete the state’s legal criteria. To proceed with Licensing, you must be at least 18 years old, a citizen or legal permanent resident, and have completed at least two years of curricular study in high school (the equivalent of a 10th-grade education).
What if I told you that If you wish to practice real estate in various jurisdictions, you should be aware of the regulations governing reciprocity and portability of real estate licenses. Montana does not guarantee reciprocity with other states, although it does enable out-of-state licenses to apply. According to the Real Estate Salesperson Checklist, you may be considered for reciprocal Licensing if you have a certificate of licensure from your present state and a passing score on the state part of the Montana real estate test.
In terms of mobility, Montana is also a physical location state. It permits agents and brokers from other states to do business, but not to undertake real estate transactions in the state. Out-of-state agents and brokers must do all business remotely and are prohibited from entering the state for any purpose, including showings, closings, or any other reason.
2. Complete all pre-Licensing courses that are required.
You should enroll in pre licensing programs after you’ve confirmed that you fulfill the state’s criteria. In Montana, real estate preLicensing programs are available in person or online, with prices ranging from $299 to $675. Throughout the course, each provider addresses the following topics:
- Having a piece of real estate is a
- Controls and limitations on land use
- Market research and valuation
- Financing
- Agency principles in general
- Property management and leasing
- Disclosures about the property
- Transfer of ownership
- Real estate practice
- Contracts
- Calculations for real estate
- Condominium/common interest ownership
- Tenant-landlord connection
- Foreclosure and redemption are two words that come to mind when thinking about foreclosure.
- Fraudulent acts statute
- The powers of the real estate Licensing agency
- Licensing
While there are other certified real estate colleges to select from, Real Estate Express offers self-paced online education with extra resources such as on-demand videos, downloadable tools, and instructor assistance to help you get started in the real estate industry right away. Furthermore, at $299 for the base bundle, it is one of Montana’s most affordable options.
3. Pass the Real Estate Exam in Montana
You must pass both the national and state portions of the Montana real estate test before applying for your license after finishing your prelicensing course. The exam is taken on a computer, and you will get your results shortly after completing it.
You will get a successful passing report if you obtain a passing score. If you fail the test, you will be given a diagnostic report outlining your strengths and faults. You may retake just that component of the test if you pass only one part of it. If you fail the test, you may reschedule it within 24 hours after your unsuccessful attempt.
Exam Specifics
Make Your Exam Appointment
PSI, a leading supplier of state licensing examinations, administers the Montana real estate exam. To begin scheduling, you must first establish a PSI account, which will get you access to the scheduling portal. For more testing information, you will get a copy of the Candidate Information Bulletin.
The test costs $106 and may be paid with a credit or debit card immediately on the internet. Because your exam results are only valid for one year from the date of passing, it’s critical to apply for your Montana real estate license as soon as possible after passing.
Passing the test and beginning a successful real estate professionals need thorough preparation. While your education provider will supply you with important learning resources, it never hurts to have a little additional help. Real Estate Test Scholar is a great resource for thorough exam preparation. For $39, you receive six months of access to simulated tests, over 1,200 practice questions, and a pass guarantee, ensuring that you pass your exam the first time.
4. Decide the company you want to work for.
If you want to keep your real estate license current in Montana, you’ll need to locate a sponsoring brokerage.
5. Obtain a Montana real estate license.
The last step in becoming a Montana real estate agent is to apply for your license. You may apply for your license using the MBRR’s online site or by mail with a paper application. Regardless matter whatever option you choose, you must include the following papers with your application:
- $150 application fee; pay by check or money order if mailing; pay by electronic check or credit card if applying online.
- A certificate of completion validating your 70 hours of prelicensing instruction.
- You passed the Montana Salesperson Examination, according to your exam results (state and national portions)
- If relevant, official license verification from any states or jurisdictions where you now hold or have previously had a professional license of any kind.
- Include a full description of the events and evidence from the source, such as a licensing board, federal agencies/programs, or civil/criminal court processes such as initiating/charging paperwork, or final disposition/judgment records, if you responded yes to disciplinary questions.
Keep in mind that your supervising brokerage will need to fill out part 5 of your application to indicate you’ll be working for them.
With a criminal background, it is possible to get a real estate license in Montana. If you have a criminal record, be careful to state it on your application and attach any supporting paperwork. Your application will be classified as nonroutine by the MBRR and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Read the Licensing Real Estate Professionals Performance Audit for more details.
6. Get Your Real Estate Career Started
You’re ready to begin your real estate career now that you’ve learned how to become a real estate agent in Montana.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Montana real estate license?
It usually takes about eight weeks to complete the mandatory coursework and exams, but you will also need to wait for your final score report.
Is Montana a good place to be a real estate agent?
Montana is a great place for real estate agents to be. It has the largest market in America and plenty of properties that are on the market. The average price per square foot for homes here is $101, which makes it one of the most affordable places to buy property as well.