This post was last modified on June 29, 2024.
Considering a career as a real estate agent and curious about online courses and exams? With the growth of distance education, real estate classes are now accessible online. This post discusses the benefits and drawbacks of online courses, how Chamberlin Real Estate School’s online courses function, and the availability of the state exam online.
Advantages of taking an online course
Flexibility
A major advantage of online courses is the flexibility they offer. You can learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, whether early in the morning or late at night, whatever suits you best.
Convenience
Online courses can be taken from anywhere with an internet connection. This is especially beneficial for students who live in rural areas or who have other responsibilities, such as a job or family.
Cost-effective
Online courses are often less expensive than in-person courses, as there are no overhead costs associated with physical classrooms.
Learning at your own pace
Online courses allow you to learn at your own pace, which can be especially helpful for those who need more time to understand complex topics or who want to review material multiple times.
Improved technology
As technology advances, online courses are becoming more interactive and engaging, with features such as practice tests and audio instruction, making learning more fun and immersive.
Disadvantages of taking an online course
Lack of face-to-face interaction
One of the biggest disadvantages of online courses is the lack of face-to-face interaction with instructors and other students, which can make it more difficult to build relationships and ask questions.
Self-discipline and time management
Online courses require a high degree of self-discipline and time management skills, as there may be fewer external deadlines and less structure than in-person courses.
Technology issues
Technical problems can sometimes arise with online courses, such as slow internet connections or computer malfunctions, which can interrupt the learning process.
Potential for less personalized feedback
Online courses may have larger class sizes, which can make it more difficult for instructors to provide personalized feedback to individual students.
Lack of accountability
Online courses often lack the inherent accountability provided by in-person courses, as the absence of physical presence and real-time interactions can lead to reduced motivation and a decreased sense of responsibility.
How do courses work at Chamberlin Real Estate School?
Chamberlin’s online real estate licensing courses provide high-quality content in an engaging, interactive format, using material similar to college-level textbooks. You can start immediately upon enrollment and work at your own pace. The courses track your progress, allowing you to resume where you left off, fitting your studies around other commitments.
Other features of Chamberlin online courses include sample questions similar to those you will encounter on the state exam, a glossary of real estate terms in text and audio, links to real estate-related websites, instant graded responses, and personal instructor support. If you have any technical issues, you can also take advantage of toll-free technical support to get the help you need.
Is the state exam offered online?
The California Real Estate Exam is not available online. Exam scheduling depends on the number of applications received by the Department of Real Estate (DRE) and the seating capacity of the facilities. Exams are administered in five areas: Fresno, San Diego, Los Angeles Vicinity, Oakland, and Sacramento, typically in an electronic format.
However, it’s important to note that examination locations within an area may vary, and requests for specific locations within the chosen area cannot be granted. Instead, you can use the eLicensing online system to select a specific exam date and site.
In addition, qualified examinees can now schedule themselves into an available exam via eLicensing as late as 6:00 a.m. on the day of the exam. Examinees will then be able to print themselves a barcoded schedule notice online to take to the exam. However, examinees that use eLicensing for exam scheduling will no longer be mailed out exam schedule notices as those can now be printed online.
It’s important to be aware of the examination control information as well. For security reasons, certain items are not permitted in the examination room, including cell phones, purses, wallets, backpacks, briefcases, suitcases, food, drink, study materials, tablets, portable computers, PDA’s, calculators, cameras, video or digital recording equipment, watches, lapel pins, tie tacs, and other items deemed inappropriate by proctors. Basic calculators will be provided for your use.
Cell phone use and/or mere possession of a cell phone during an exam is strictly prohibited, including while out on break. All cell phones must be powered off and placed in an individual locker provided for your use. Failure to comply with examination administration rules will lead to your disqualification.
Final Thoughts
Online real estate courses offer flexibility, convenience, cost-effectiveness, a broader range of courses, self-paced learning, and improved technology. However, drawbacks include a lack of face-to-face interaction and limited hands-on learning. Although the state exam is not online, online resources can help you prepare. Taking a pre-licensing course, studying regularly, practicing, and understanding the exam format can improve your chances of passing the state exam and becoming a licensed real estate agent.
If you’re considering taking an online real estate course, Chamberlin Real Estate School is an excellent option. Our online courses offer high-quality content in an engaging and interactive format, with features designed to help you succeed.
Becoming a licensed real estate agent opens up many opportunities, from assisting clients with buying and selling homes to building your own business. Taking an online course is a convenient and cost-effective way to obtain your license, but thorough preparation for the state exam is essential for success.
Remember that passing the state exam is just the first step in your real estate career. Continuing education and staying up-to-date with industry trends and regulations is essential to maintaining your license and providing the best service to your clients. Good luck on your real estate journey!
