How to Become a REALTOR

Choosing to become a REALTOR® offers a unique blend of entrepreneurial freedom, the potential for high income, and the fulfillment that comes from helping people achieve their homeownership dreams.

It’s a dynamic career with diverse opportunities, continuous learning, and the ability to make a positive impact on communities—all while allowing you to build a flexible and independent professional life.

To become a REALTOR® in New Mexico, follow these steps:
  1. Meet Eligibility Requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be a U.S. citizen or legally eligible to work in the U.S.
  2. Complete Pre-Licensing Education: Enroll in a state-approved real estate pre-licensing course. In New Mexico, this typically involves completing 90 hours of education, including real estate principles and practice, New Mexico real estate law, and a broker basics course.
  3. Pass the Licensing Exam: After completing the pre-licensing education, you must pass the New Mexico Real Estate Broker's Exam. This exam tests your knowledge of real estate practices, laws, and regulations in New Mexico.
  4. Submit Your Application: Once you pass the exam, you need to submit a license application to the New Mexico Real Estate Commission (NMREC). This includes paying the required fees and providing proof of your education and exam results.
  5. Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, you must be affiliated with a licensed New Mexico real estate brokerage. Find a sponsoring broker who will supervise your activities as a newly licensed REALTOR®.
  6. Join the Greater Albuquerque Association of REALTORS®, Southwest Multiple Listing Service, and NAR: To officially become a Realtor®, you need to join these associations, which involves adhering to their Code of Ethics and paying membership dues.

Once these steps are completed, you can start practicing as a REALTOR® in New Mexico.

Complete Post-Licensing Education: New Mexico requires new licensees to complete an additional 30 hours of post-licensing education within their first year of licensure.

New Mexico Real Estate Schools

The term "REALTOR®" is a registered trademark owned by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) to distinguish its members from other real estate professionals. The trademark is protected by federal law and is a valuable membership benefit.  

The trademark indicates that a member adheres to a strict code of ethics that protects clients, the public, and other real estate agents. The term should always be capitalized and use the registered trademark symbol, ®.

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