1. Can anyone be a real estate agent?

Becoming a real estate agent in the state of California is relatively easy, but there are some very specific requirements.  In order to become a licensed agent you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older to be licensed;
• Provide proof of legal presence in the United States - if you are an out of state resident, additional requirements exist;
• Be honest and truthful.  Conviction of a crime may result in the denial of a license.  Failure to disclose any criminal violation or disciplinary action in an applicat's entire history may also result in the denial of a license.
• Successfully complete the following college level courses: Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice (must be completed prior to applying for a license or within 18 months of license issuance), and One course from the following list must be completed before or within 18 months of license issuance: Real Estate Appraisal, Property Management, Real Estate Finance, Real Estate Economics, Legal Aspect of Real Estate, Real Estate Office Administration, General Accounting, Business Law, Escrows, Mortgage Loan Brokering and Lending, Computer Applications in Real Estate, or Common Interest Developments; and
• Pass the Salesperson Examination.

2. How much does it cost to get your license?

There are several real estate licensing schools available in California.  Most classes are offered online.  The cost of the California Principles class (a requirement you must meet before you are eligible to take the State Salespersons Exam) and a test-prep class can run about $250.  (Note: effective October 31, 2007, the state will require that you take three college level courses instead of just the Principles class and that will make the cost of these programs increase.)  The cost to take the test is $25.  The cost for a fingerprint scan is $75.  The cost to apply for the license is $145.

3. How long does it take to get my real estate license?

You work on getting your real estate license at your own speed.  It could be as little as eight weeks if you have the time to focus on the classes and studies and apply early for the state test.

4. Is a California real estate license valid nationwide?

No.  Your California license is valid only in the State of California.

5. How long before I will be able to start selling?

Once you pass the test, you must apply for the license and wait for it to register with the state.  Usually it takes between four and six weeks depending on how busy they are at the State Licensing Board.

6. How long is a real estate license good for?

The term of a real estate license is four years.

7. Do you hire new to real estate, part-time agents?

Our training system requires a full time commitment by our associates. We have found that people holding full time jobs outside of their real estate careers can't keep up with the demands of the program.

8. How much does it cost to become a J. Rockcliff agent?

The cost of our new agent training system is $400. The cost of your start up package, including your business cards, open house signs, for sale signs and name badge is about $800.

9. What does the Rockcliff Training System provide?

In-depth classroom training. You will attend classes 3 times per week for 8 weeks. We also have on-going support once you have completed these classes. You will have a full time mentor to help you through your first 8 transactions, at no additional cost to you. Agents that demonstrate their commitment to their career may also be eligible to receive personalized, one-on-one coaching.

10. How long before I sell my first house?

It's up to you.  If you go right to work it could be as little as a couple of weeks.  On average, it's about 90 days.

11. How many hours per week will I be required to work?

Other than required training, your hours are your own. However, your career in real estate is the equivalent of starting your own small business and will only grow through your own efforts. You should expect to work a minimum of 40 hours per week or more during your first year in the business. The hours are flexible.

12. What is the starting salary as an agent?

Rockcliff associates are independent contractors and are paid on commission only.

13. Are there medical benefits and vacation pay?

Our associates are independent contractors and do not qualify for any type of benefits that you would normally receive on a job where you receive a salary. However, your membership in a board of realtors of your choice will qualify you to apply for medical benefits at a group rate.