About the Real Estate Exams
Overview
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Much as each state has its own laws governing the field of real estate, each state has its own method of examining prospective agents and brokers. That being said, a majority of states have partnered with one of four companies (ASI, PSI, AMP, or Experior) in preparing its test. Each of these has developed a national exam, which it then supplements with state-specific content.
By necessity, there is much in the way of crossover in terms of the material tested on the various states' exams.
Topics that you can expect to encounter include:
- The nature of real estate
- Ownership and land use
- Federal legislation and real estate
- Contracts
- Brokerage
- Calculation of property sizes
- Taxes
- Costs
- Commissions
- Financing
The purpose of any real estate exam is to ensure that you are competent in each of these skills. You will also be expected to demonstrate an understanding of the laws and procedures unique to your state.
The following states have completely state-unique exams: CA, ME, MI, MS, NY, NC, OK, OR, WV, WI (broker only).
Test Dates
Test Locations
Test Structure
Each state's Real Estate Exam is different; however, there are some features that are common to all standardized examinations.
- Timing: All standardized Real Estate Exams are timed, although each state determines its own time allotment.
- Calculators: Since effective calculations are essential to real estate, all exams allow for the use of a calculator. It is usually specified that calculators must be battery-powered, silent, and without paper printout capability.
Content-wise, the major differences between each state's exams are in question styles and specific topical emphases. In addition, each state will include content specific to its real estate laws and processes.
