Real Estate Licensing in Key Largo CDP, Florida
Who Needs a License
Florida law requires licensing for individuals who, for compensation, sell, buy, exchange, lease, or rent real property on behalf of others. This includes real estate brokers and sales associates.
Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "broker" is defined as any person who, for another and for a fee, commission, or other valuable consideration, sells or offers to sell, buys or offers to buy, or negotiates the purchase or sale of real property, or who leases or offers to lease or rents or offers to rent any real property. A "sales associate" works under the supervision of a broker and performs similar functions.
Any person engaging in real estate transactions in Key Largo CDP for compensation must hold a current license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Real Estate.
How to Get Licensed
Step 1: Pre-Licensing Education
Complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course from a DBPR-approved provider.
Step 2: Pass the Exam
Pass the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) licensing examination administered by testing vendors approved by DBPR.
Step 3: Apply for License
Submit your application to DBPR, Division of Real Estate, along with:
- Proof of passing the licensing exam
- Proof of completing pre-licensing education
- Application fee
- Background information and authorization for fingerprinting
Step 4: Broker Sponsorship
Sales associates must be sponsored by a licensed broker before the license is issued. Brokers must establish their own brokerage firm through DBPR.
Detailed information and application procedures are available through DBPR's Division of Real Estate website.
Local Requirements
Key Largo CDP is located in Monroe County, Florida. Local real estate transaction requirements are governed by the Key Largo Municipal Code.
Review the municipal code for any local ordinances affecting real estate transactions, property transfers, or disclosure requirements specific to Key Largo. Contact the Key Largo Building Department to determine if any local permits, impact fees, or local amendments apply to your real estate activities.
State licensure supersedes local licensing requirements; however, Key Largo may impose additional local regulations regarding property sales, leases, or rentals specific to the CDP.
Exemptions
Fla. Stat. § 489.105 exempts certain activities from licensing requirements:
- Owners selling their own property
- Attorneys licensed in Florida performing real estate services as part of legal practice
- Employees of property owners managing their employer's property
- Certain on-site property managers
However, if you receive compensation beyond salary for facilitating transactions, licensing may be required.
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)