Real Estate Licensing in Westchester CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for individuals and entities engaged in real estate brokerage and sales activities. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "broker" is defined as any person who, for compensation, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property or a business opportunity, or offers to engage in these activities on behalf of others. A "sales associate" is a person associated with a broker who performs similar activities under the broker's supervision.

If you are receiving compensation—directly or indirectly—for negotiating, selling, leasing, or managing real property transactions in Westchester, you must hold an active Florida real estate license. This applies to independent contractors, employees, and anyone representing themselves as a real estate professional.

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a Florida resident or demonstrate intent to become one
- Have no disqualifying criminal history

Step 2: Complete Pre-License Education
Enroll in and complete a 63-hour pre-license course approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC).

Step 3: Pass the State Exam
Take and pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate or Broker examination administered by the FREC.

Step 4: Join a Brokerage
Sales associates must associate with a licensed broker before submitting a license application.

Step 5: Apply for Your License
Submit your application and fees to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Real Estate. The DBPR processes all state licenses under Fla. Stat. § 489.105.

Local Requirements

Westchester CDP, located in Miami-Dade County, falls under Westchester Municipal Code. Review the municipal code for any local amendments or additional requirements beyond state licensing. Contact the Westchester Building Department or Miami-Dade County Building Department for information on local real estate office registration or occupancy permits if you plan to operate a physical office within the jurisdiction.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, exemptions include property owners selling their own property, employees of property management companies performing clerical duties, and attorneys licensed to practice law in Florida when performing real estate services as part of legal representation.

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)