Real Estate Licensing in Arcadia city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Under Florida law, a person engaged in the business of selling, buying, exchanging, leasing, or renting real property on behalf of others must hold a current real estate license. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105(1)(a)] defines a "broker" as any person who, for compensation or valuable consideration, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property or a business opportunity, or offers to perform these acts.

Similarly, a "sales associate" must be licensed to perform any of these acts on behalf of a broker. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105(1)(b)] The license requirement applies whether you work as an independent contractor or employee.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing:

1. Apply with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Real Estate.
2. Pass the Florida Real Estate Exam administered by the state.
3. Complete pre-licensing education: 63 hours for sales associates; 72 hours for brokers, plus 24 months of experience as a licensed sales associate within the five years preceding application. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105]
4. Submit fingerprints for a background check.
5. Pay applicable state fees.

Contact the DBPR Division of Real Estate for current exam schedules, approved education providers, and application procedures.

Local Requirements

Arcadia is located in DeSoto County, Florida. Real estate professionals operating in Arcadia must comply with the Arcadia Municipal Code. Review the Arcadia Municipal Code for any local restrictions, zoning regulations, or municipal ordinances governing real estate transactions and property management within city limits.

For permit requirements related to property development or improvement, contact the Arcadia Building Department. Local code provisions may impose additional disclosure, inspection, or compliance requirements on real estate sales and leases.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from licensing under state law:

• Owners selling, leasing, or exchanging their own property [Fla. Stat. § 489.105(1)(a)]
• Attorneys licensed to practice law in Florida, when acting in a professional capacity [Fla. Stat. § 489.105(1)(a)]
• Persons acting under a power of attorney from a property owner [Fla. Stat. § 489.105(1)(a)]
• On-site managers of apartment complexes or mobile home parks (limited exemption for managing leases)

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Phone: 850-487-1395
- Website: https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/real-estate-commission/

References

• Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
• Arcadia Municipal Code, https://library.municode.com/fl/southeast-arcadia-cdp-florida

The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)