Real Estate Licensing in Lake Butler city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law defines a "broker" under Fla. Stat. § 489.105 as any person who, for compensation, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property, or who offers, attempts, or agrees to perform these acts. A "sales associate" is a person employed by or representing a broker who performs these same functions under the broker's supervision.

If you engage in real estate brokerage activities in Lake Butler—whether buying, selling, leasing, or managing property for others in exchange for compensation—you must hold a Florida real estate license. This applies to individuals working independently or employed by a brokerage firm.

How to Get Licensed

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

For a Sales Associate License:
1. Complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course approved by DBPR
2. Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate exam
3. Be sponsored by a registered Florida broker
4. Apply to DBPR with your broker sponsorship

For a Broker License:
1. Hold an active sales associate license for at least 24 months within the 5 years preceding application, or hold an equivalent out-of-state license
2. Complete a 72-hour broker pre-licensing course
3. Pass the Florida Real Estate Broker exam
4. Apply directly to DBPR

Requirements, exam details, and approved course providers are established under Fla. Stat. § 489.105 and related administrative rules. Contact DBPR's Division of Real Estate for current procedures and exam scheduling.

Local Requirements

Lake Butler is located in Orange County, Florida. Consult the Lake Butler Municipal Code for any local real estate business regulations, local occupational licensing requirements, or zoning restrictions that may apply to real estate brokerage offices operating within the city.

For property transactions involving Lake Butler real property, ensure compliance with all local ordinances regarding property rights, deed recording, and any city-specific restrictions on land use or development.

Contact the Lake Butler Building Department to confirm whether local permits or registrations are required for establishing a real estate office within city limits.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, certain activities and persons are exempt from licensing requirements, including:
- Owners selling or leasing their own property
- Attorneys licensed in Florida performing real estate services as part of legal practice
- Receivers, trustees, and executors dealing with property in their official capacity
- Employees of financial institutions handling mortgage transactions

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)