Real Estate Licensing in Balm CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Under Florida law, a real estate license is required for any person who, for compensation, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property, or who offers or attempts to do so on behalf of another.[^1] This includes activities such as negotiating sales, managing property, or advertising real estate for others.

A broker license is required for anyone who employs, supervises, or appoints sales associates or who maintains trust accounts for client funds.[^1] A sales associate license is required for individuals who work under a broker to engage in real estate transactions.[^1]

How to Get Licensed

Real estate licensing in Florida is administered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

For a Sales Associate License:
1. Complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course from a state-approved provider
2. Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate exam
3. Apply to DBPR with exam results
4. Work under an active broker

For a Broker License:
1. Hold an active sales associate license for at least 24 months within the preceding 5-year period (or equivalent experience)
2. Complete a 72-hour broker pre-licensing course
3. Pass the Florida Real Estate Broker exam
4. Apply to DBPR with exam results
5. Establish a place of business and trust account management procedures

For current exam schedules, application forms, and approved course providers, contact the DBPR directly.

Local Requirements

Balm CDP is located in Hillsborough County. Local real estate requirements are codified in the Balm Municipal Code. Review this code for any local amendments or additional requirements beyond state law.

Real estate offices operating in Balm CDP must comply with local zoning and land use regulations. Contact the Balm Building Department or Hillsborough County for permit requirements related to establishing or operating a real estate office location within the town.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from real estate licensing requirements under Florida law:[^1]

• Persons acting as attorneys licensed to practice law in Florida, when performing services within the scope of legal practice
• Owners of property who rent or lease their own property without employing a broker or sales associate
• Property managers acting solely on behalf of property owners they directly employ (with limitations)
• Persons acting under a power of attorney or court order
• Receivers, trustees, guardians, or executors acting in their official capacity

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions

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
• Balm Municipal Code

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