If you’re planning to move to The Villages area and have considered selling real estate, you’re not alone. The Villages is one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the country, attracting a mix of retirees, snowbirds, and full-time residents who appreciate the unique lifestyle the area offers. Selling real estate here can be a rewarding career, and many newcomers find it to be the perfect way to establish roots in the community while building a successful business.
One of the most common questions we hear is:
“I’m moving to The Villages area at some point and thought about selling real estate when I get there. Can I do that, and what are the steps to making this happen?”
The answer is a resounding yes—you can absolutely sell real estate in The Villages and the surrounding area, and we’re here to help you make it happen. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to becoming a licensed real estate agent in Florida, why starting the process before you move is a smart decision, and how KW Villages’ training programs and hiring practices can set you up for success.
Why Real Estate in The Villages Is a Great Career Choice
Before diving into the steps, it’s worth exploring why selling real estate in The Villages is such an exciting opportunity.
1. A Thriving Market
The Villages is one of the fastest-growing communities in the United States. With new neighborhoods, ongoing development, and a steady influx of residents, the demand for skilled real estate agents is high. Whether it’s resales, new construction, or investment properties, there’s always something happening in The Villages market.
2. A Lifestyle-Oriented Community
The Villages is a unique place where lifestyle and community play a central role. Selling real estate here is about more than just transactions—it’s about helping people find their perfect home to enjoy an active and fulfilling life.
3. A Chance to Build a Flexible Career
Real estate offers flexibility in scheduling, earning potential, and career growth. Whether you’re looking to work full-time or part-time, real estate in The Villages provides opportunities to shape your career around your lifestyle.
The Steps to Selling Real Estate in Florida
If you’re serious about selling real estate in The Villages, your first step is obtaining a Florida real estate license. Here’s how to get started:
1. Understand Florida’s Licensing Requirements
To sell real estate in Florida, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC)
- Pass the Florida real estate licensing exam
- Submit fingerprints and pass a background check
- Affiliate with a licensed brokerage to activate your license
2. Start Your Pre-Licensing Course
The 63-hour pre-licensing course is a state-mandated requirement that covers topics such as real estate law, ethics, property management, and contracts. The good news is that you can start this course online before you move to Florida.
Take a look at my review of the top online real estate school providers for Florida.
3. Prepare for the Florida Real Estate Exam
Once you complete the pre-licensing course, you’ll need to pass the state exam. This test assesses your understanding of the material covered in the course and your ability to apply it in real-world scenarios. Many online courses include exam prep materials, which can be a valuable resource.
4. Submit Your Application
To apply for your license, you’ll need to:
- Submit an application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
- Provide fingerprints and undergo a background check
5. Affiliate with Keller Williams Realty
After passing the exam and receiving your license, the final step is to affiliate with KW Villages. This step is crucial because your brokerage will provide the support, training, and resources you need to launch your career.
Why Start the Licensing Process BeWhy Start Your Real Estate Licensing Process Before Moving to The Villages?
Starting your licensing process before you move to The Villages is one of the smartest decisions you can make if you’re considering a career in real estate. This proactive approach not only saves time but also reduces stress and positions you for long-term success in one of Florida’s most dynamic markets. Here’s a deeper dive into why getting started on your licensing journey early can make a significant difference.
1. Hit the Ground Running
Moving to a new area and starting a new career at the same time can feel overwhelming, but completing your pre-licensing requirements before your move can eliminate unnecessary delays. Here’s how this step sets you up for success from the moment you arrive.
Complete Your Coursework in Advance
The 63-hour pre-licensing course required to become a real estate agent in Florida can be completed entirely online. By starting this process now, you’ll have plenty of time to study, learn the material, and even prepare for the state exam without the added stress of moving logistics.
Prepare for Your Exam Before Moving
Once your coursework is done, you can focus on passing the Florida real estate exam. Completing the exam before you move means you won’t need to juggle exam preparation with finding a home, unpacking, or getting acclimated to a new area. When you arrive in The Villages, you’ll already have this key milestone behind you, enabling you to dive straight into your new career.
Start Networking Immediately
With your license in hand, you’ll be ready to begin building relationships and growing your network from day one. Whether it’s connecting with future clients, other agents, or your new brokerage, being licensed allows you to focus on developing your business rather than waiting for approval to start.
2. Streamline Your Transition
Moving to a new area is a significant life change, and starting a new career on top of that can feel like a lot to handle. By beginning the licensing process ahead of time, you simplify your transition and free up mental space to focus on settling into your new home.
One Less Thing to Worry About
Relocating comes with a long to-do list: finding a place to live, arranging movers, registering for local utilities, and so much more. Adding the task of completing a 63-hour course, scheduling an exam, and submitting licensing paperwork can quickly become overwhelming. Getting these steps out of the way before you move allows you to focus on the logistical and emotional aspects of relocating.
Time to Explore Your New Community
When you arrive in The Villages, you’ll want to spend time exploring the area, meeting new people, and familiarizing yourself with the community. Starting your licensing process before you move gives you the freedom to focus on these important steps without feeling like you’re falling behind on your career goals.
Avoid Delays
The licensing process can take several weeks, especially when factoring in application approvals, background checks, and exam scheduling. By starting early, you eliminate potential bottlenecks and ensure you’re ready to hit the ground running the moment you arrive.
A Smoother Onboarding Experience
Many brokerages, including KW Villages, have onboarding processes that include training programs, mentorship, and systems setup. Arriving with your license in hand means you can fully participate in these opportunities without delay, giving you a head start on building your business.
3. Maximize Your Earning Potential
Real estate is a career where time truly equals money. The sooner you’re licensed and affiliated with a brokerage, the sooner you can start generating income. By starting the licensing process before you move, you ensure that you’re not leaving any potential earnings on the table.
Capitalize on The Villages’ Thriving Market
The Villages is one of the fastest-growing communities in the country, with a steady influx of retirees and other homebuyers looking to enjoy its unique lifestyle. With such a vibrant market, there’s no shortage of opportunities to build a successful real estate business. By starting your licensing process early, you can position yourself to take advantage of these opportunities as soon as possible.
Avoid a Waiting Period
Without a license, you’re unable to legally assist clients or earn commissions. If you wait until after your move to begin the licensing process, you could face weeks—or even months—of delays before you can start working. Starting early eliminates this downtime, allowing you to begin earning income right away.
Build Momentum
Real estate success often depends on momentum. The earlier you start generating leads, closing deals, and building your reputation, the faster your business will grow. Arriving in The Villages with your license already secured gives you a jumpstart on this process, helping you build momentum from day one.
Establish Financial Stability
Relocating often comes with increased expenses, from moving costs to setting up your new home. Starting your career as soon as you arrive can provide an immediate source of income, helping you achieve financial stability more quickly. The sooner you can close your first deal, the sooner you’ll start seeing the financial rewards of your hard work.
KW Villages Training: Setting You Up for Success
At KW Villages, we believe that training is the foundation of a successful real estate career. Here’s how our programs can help you achieve your goals:
1. Ignite Program
Our Ignite training program is designed to teach new agents the skills and habits needed to build a successful business. From lead generation to closing deals, Ignite provides a comprehensive roadmap for success.
2. Six Figures Income Playbook
We’ve developed a playbook specifically for agents at KW Villages to help them achieve six-figure incomes. This includes guidance on lead generation, budgeting, marketing, and building a sustainable business.
3. Hands-On Mentorship
As a new agent, you’ll have access to experienced mentors who can provide one-on-one guidance, answer your questions, and help you navigate the challenges of starting a real estate career.
4. Ongoing Education
Real estate is a constantly evolving industry. At KW Villages, we offer ongoing training opportunities to help you stay ahead of the curve, whether it’s mastering social media marketing, learning about the latest technology, or understanding market trends.
Interviewing with KW Villages
Once you’re ready to move to The Villages, we’d love to meet with you in person for an interview. Here’s why we prioritize in-person interviews:
1. Building Relationships
Real estate is a relationship-driven business, and we want to get to know you as a person. An in-person interview allows us to connect on a deeper level and ensure that you’re a great fit for our team.
2. Experiencing the Office Culture
Our office culture at KW Villages is one of collaboration, support, and growth. Visiting in person gives you a chance to experience this culture firsthand and see why so many agents thrive here.
3. Exploring The Villages Market
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore The Villages and get a feel for the market you’ll be working in. This hands-on experience is invaluable as you prepare to start your career.
Take Action Now: Your Path to Success
If you’re moving to The Villages and considering a career in real estate, don’t wait to get started. Here’s a recap of the steps you can take today:
- Enroll in an Online Pre-Licensing Course Choose a reputable online provider and start your coursework now to meet Florida’s licensing requirements.
- Contact KW Villages Reach out to our team for guidance and support. We’re here to answer your questions and help you navigate the licensing process.
- Schedule Your Move Plan to interview with us in person once you arrive in The Villages. In the meantime, focus on completing your coursework and preparing for the state exam.
- Join the KW Villages Team Once you’re licensed, join a team that’s committed to your growth and success. With our training programs, mentorship opportunities, and supportive community, you’ll have everything you need to thrive.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Journey Today
Moving to a new area and starting a real estate career can feel like a big leap, but with the right preparation and support, it’s entirely achievable. At KW Villages, we’re dedicated to helping new agents like you succeed. By starting the licensing process before you move and connecting with us when you arrive, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth transition and a rewarding career in The Villages’ dynamic real estate market.
If you’re ready to take the first step, visit our Real Estate Class Signup Page and start your licensing journey today. We can’t wait to meet you and help you unlock your full potential as a real estate professional in The Villages!
Robert Earl
Robert EarlRobert has 20+ years of experience as a Real Estate Agent, Coach & Digital Marketer. Robert Earl is passionate about teaching and empowering others to pursue their dreams and create sustainable income. Whether through a career in real estate, affiliate marketing, niche blogging, or transforming campgrounds into thriving communities, his proven strategies and techniques have helped numerous individuals and businesses succeed. Based on his years of experience and knowledge in the online marketing industry, along with his hands-on management in the Real Estate & RV Park sector, he has crafted a unique and effective approach to personal and professional growth. In addition to his business pursuits, Robert is also a CrossFit Online Level 1 Trainer (CF-OL1) and enjoys fitness activities, while traveling the country. His multifaceted career showcases his dedication to growth, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence in various domains.