Real Estate Licensing in Loughman CDP, Florida
Who Needs a License
Under Florida law, a real estate broker or sales associate must hold a license to sell, buy, exchange, rent, or lease real property on behalf of others for compensation. Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines a "broker" as a person who, for compensation, sells, buys, exchanges, rents, or leases real property or a business opportunity, or who offers to perform these acts. A "sales associate" is a person employed by a broker who performs similar activities under the broker's direction.
Any person in Loughman CDP engaging in real estate transactions for pay must obtain a license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Real Estate, unless specifically exempt.
How to Get Licensed
Step 1: Meet Prelicensing Requirements
- Complete a 63-hour prelicensing course approved by DBPR for sales associates, or a 72-hour course for brokers
- Courses must be completed through an approved provider
Step 2: Pass the Licensing Exam
- Sit for the Florida real estate licensing exam administered by a DBPR-approved testing vendor
- Sales associates and brokers take different exams
Step 3: Apply for Your License
- Submit your application to the Florida DBPR, Division of Real Estate
- Include proof of course completion, exam passage, and required fees
- Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks
Step 4: Work Under a Broker
- Sales associates must be employed by a licensed broker before activating their license
- Brokers may operate independently once licensed
Reference Fla. Stat. § 489.105 for statutory definitions and DBPR rules for current exam schedules and fees.
Local Requirements
Loughman CDP is governed by its municipal code. While real estate licensing is primarily a state matter under Florida Statute § 489.105, local real estate activities may be subject to Polk County or Loughman CDP zoning, property transfer, and local business regulations.
Review the Loughman Municipal Code for any local amendments regarding property transactions or business licensing that may apply to real estate operations within the town.
Contact the Loughman Building Department to determine whether local permits or registrations are required for real estate office operations within town limits.
Exemptions
Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, the following are exempt from licensing:
- Persons selling their own property
- Persons renting or leasing their own property without using agents
- Attorneys licensed in Florida when performing real estate services incidental to their legal practice
- Trustees or executors handling property as part of estate administration
- Property managers employed by property owners (limited exemption; check statute for specifics)
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)