Real Estate Licensing in Winter Haven city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires a license for individuals who, for compensation, sell, purchase, exchange, rent, or lease real property; advertise real estate services; or act as a broker or salesperson in real estate transactions. Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines a "broker" as a person who employs licensees or engages in real estate brokerage for others, and a "sales associate" as a person employed by a broker to perform licensed activities.

If you represent clients in real estate transactions, manage property sales, or operate a brokerage in Winter Haven, you must hold a current Florida real estate license.

How to Get Licensed

  1. Meet eligibility requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, a Florida resident (or have a principal office in Florida if out-of-state), and not have been convicted of certain crimes.

  2. Complete pre-licensing education: Enroll in a Commission-approved real estate sales associate pre-licensing course (40 hours) or broker course (72 hours). Courses are offered by private real estate schools.

  3. Pass the state exam: Register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and pass the appropriate licensing examination.

  4. Apply through DBPR: Submit your application to the DBPR Division of Real Estate with proof of exam passage, completed education, and any required background documentation.

The DBPR issues all real estate licenses in Florida. For specific guidance on current exam requirements and application procedures, contact the DBPR Division of Real Estate directly.

Local Requirements

Winter Haven is in Polk County, Florida. Real estate licensing is regulated entirely by state law under Fla. Stat. § 489.105.

Review the Winter Haven Municipal Code for any local land development or property transaction ordinances that may apply to your business operations within the city. Local zoning or office location requirements may apply to your brokerage office location.

Contact the Winter Haven Building Department for information on office location permits or any municipal requirements specific to operating a real estate business in the city.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.105 exempts individuals acting as property managers without compensation beyond salary, attorneys licensed in Florida when performing legal duties, and certain in-house employees of single property owners. A person selling their own property for their own account is also exempt. Confirm your specific situation meets exemption criteria before assuming you don't need licensure.

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)