Real Estate Licensing in Keystone CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Under Florida law, a real estate broker or sales associate must hold a license to engage in the business of selling, buying, exchanging, leasing, or renting real property. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines a "broker" as any person who, for another and for compensation or promise of compensation, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property or a business opportunity, or negotiates or offers to negotiate such transactions.] A "sales associate" is similarly defined as a person employed by or affiliated with a broker who performs these activities under the broker's direction.

If you solicit prospects, list property, show property, negotiate terms, or accept compensation related to real estate transactions in Keystone CDP, you need a license.

How to Get Licensed

State Application:
1. Obtain sponsorship from a licensed Florida broker (required before applying for a sales associate license).
2. Complete prelicense education requirements set by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
3. Pass the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) licensing examination.
4. Submit your application to DBPR along with proof of education completion and examination passage.
5. Receive your state license once DBPR approves your application.

For broker licenses, additional requirements apply, including higher education hours and experience thresholds. Consult DBPR directly for broker-specific requirements.

[Fla. Stat. § 489.105 governs these definitions and establishes the framework for state licensing requirements.]

Local Requirements

Keystone CDP is located in Hillsborough County, Florida. Real estate transactions and property management in Keystone are subject to Hillsborough County regulations in addition to state law.

Consult the Keystone Municipal Code for any local amendments, local licensing fees, or additional requirements specific to conducting real estate business within Keystone CDP. Contact the Keystone CDP or Hillsborough County Building Department to confirm whether local registration, permits, or notifications are required before operating as a licensed real estate professional in the town.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.105 provides exemptions for certain activities, including owners selling their own property (without employing agents), attorneys licensed in Florida performing real estate services as part of legal representation, and employees of government agencies.] Verify with DBPR whether your specific situation qualifies for an exemption.

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

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