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.