Top 5 Things to Know Before Purchasing a Florida Pre-License Real Estate Course

Choosing the right Florida real estate pre-license course is crucial to passing the licensing exam and starting your career successfully. Not all courses offer the same value—considering accreditation, format, pass rates, study materials, and costs is essential. Here’s everything you need to know before enrolling.

1. State Accreditation & Compliance

Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) Approval

The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), part of the Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR), mandates that aspiring real estate professionals complete a 63-hour pre-license course from an approved provider.

Why Accreditation Matters

  • Only FREC-approved courses count toward state licensing requirements.
  • Non-approved courses are a waste of time and money—you won’t be eligible for the state exam.
  • Approved courses follow FREC’s official syllabus, ensuring the best preparation.

How to Verify Accreditation

Before enrolling, verify that your course provider is on Florida’s DBPR-approved list. If a provider does not clearly state its FREC approval, consider it a red flag.

2. Course Format & Flexibility

Choosing the Right Learning Format

  • Online (Self-Paced): Learn at your own pace, ideal for busy schedules.
  • Live Online (Instructor-Led): Attend virtual classes with real-time guidance.
  • In-Person: Classroom setting with structured learning and networking.
  • Hybrid (Mixed Learning): Combination of self-study and live instruction.

Comparing Top Providers

Provider Formats Offered Live Instructor Access
Cameron Academy Self-Paced, Live Online, In-Person Yes
The CE Shop Self-Paced No
Colibri Real Estate Self-Paced, Live Stream Yes (Premium Plans)
Kaplan Self-Paced, Live Online Yes

3. Pass Rates & Reputation

Florida Real Estate Exam Pass Rates

The Florida real estate exam has an average 50-60% first-time pass rate. Choosing a course with a strong track record increases your chances of success.

How Major Providers Compare

  • The CE Shop: Reports a 90%+ pass rate.
  • Colibri Real Estate: Offers a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee.
  • Cameron Academy: Highly rated by students with strong instructor-led training.

4. Included Study Materials & Support

Essential Features to Look For

  • Practice Exams & Simulators: Full-length tests for exam readiness.
  • Instructor Support: Access to Q&A, live coaching, and tutoring.
  • Study Guides & Summaries: Condensed notes for last-minute review.

Course Comparison

Provider Practice Exams Live Q&A Study Guides
Cameron Academy Yes Yes Yes
The CE Shop Yes (Premium) No Yes
Colibri Real Estate Yes Yes (Premium) Yes
Kaplan Yes Yes Yes

5. Pricing, Refunds & Additional Costs

Pricing Tiers

  • Budget Options: $70 – $150 (Minimal features, text-based courses).
  • Mid-Range: $200 – $400 (Includes exam prep, video lessons).
  • Premium: $400 – $800 (Live instruction, career support).

Refund & Pass Guarantees

  • The CE Shop: 30-day refund policy.
  • Colibri Real Estate: “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee.
  • Cameron Academy: Student-friendly policies with high ratings.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Florida pre-license real estate course is essential for success. Whether you prefer a flexible online program or structured in-person training, ensure the course is FREC-approved, offers high-quality study materials, and has a proven track record. Cameron Academy, The CE Shop, and Colibri Real Estate all offer excellent options based on your learning style and budget.

More Articles

Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!

CoStar Group’s Acquisition of Matterport: A $1.6 Billion Expansion

CoStar Group has announced its acquisition of Matterport, a leader in photorealistic 3D virtual property tours. This $1.6 billion transaction marks a significant expansion for CoStar, known for operating online property marketplaces like Apartments.com and Homes.com.

Florida’s Real Estate Market: A Glimpse into 2024

Redfin's 2024 housing predictions suggest that mortgage rates may steadily decline, potentially dipping into the 6% range. This could be a welcome relief for potential homebuyers who have been waiting for more favorable conditions.

By |October 12, 2024|Categories: Article, Housing Market, Real Estate|Tags: , |0 Comments

“Real Estate Opportunities in Florida: Top Cities for Investment”

Florida stands as a beacon of opportunity for investors seeking to expand their financial portfolios. The Sunshine State, with its picturesque scenery and relaxed lifestyle, offers a plethora of options, but strategic insight and professional advice remain crucial for maximizing returns on real estate investments.

By |October 12, 2024|Categories: Article, Investment, Real Estate|Tags: |0 Comments

The Federal Reserve’s Interest Rate Cut: A Potential Game-Changer for Homebuyers

The Federal Reserve's recent decision to cut its benchmark interest rate by half a percentage point has sent ripples through the housing market, offering a glimmer of hope for homebuyers.

By |October 12, 2024|Categories: Article, Economics, Real Estate|Tags: , |0 Comments

Colliers’ Insights on APAC Cap Rates: Q1 2024 Report

Colliers has unveiled its Q1 2024 APAC Cap Rates Report, shedding light on the performance across office, retail, and industrial sectors in 19 markets. This comprehensive analysis reveals that 11 of these markets have witnessed movements in cap rates.

By |October 12, 2024|Categories: Article, Investment Analysis, Real Estate|Tags: , |0 Comments

Exploring the Florida Real Estate Market: A Haven for Homebuyers

Florida has long been a beacon for those seeking a unique and diverse lifestyle, offering a vibrant real estate market that caters to a wide array of preferences and budgets. From luxurious oceanfront mansions and elegant condos to charming cottages, the state provides ample opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

By |October 12, 2024|Categories: Article, Florida Housing Market, Real Estate|Tags: , |0 Comments