Can You Have a Career in New York Real Estate Without a License?

Are you considering a career in New York real estate? Whether you aim to become a licensed agent or explore supportive roles, understanding New York’s real estate regulations is key. From achieving a real estate license with a mandatory 77-hour pre-licensing course to engaging in the market, New York offers extensive opportunities for both professional growth and financial success. The state’s strict standards ensure that only the most dedicated professionals lead this exciting industry. If you are ready for a challenging yet rewarding career path, dive into the fast-paced world of New York real estate and start building your future today!

Do You Need a Real Estate License in New York?

In New York, a real estate license is generally required for individuals who want to engage in most real estate activities professionally. The New York Department of State oversees real estate licensing and regulations for the entire state.

Legal Requirements for Real Estate Transactions

New York law mandates that individuals involved in selling, buying, or leasing real estate on behalf of others must possess a valid real estate license. This requirement ensures that professionals in the field meet certain educational and ethical standards, which is crucial for consumer protection.

Importance of a License for Various Real Estate Roles

A real estate license is essential for roles such as:

• Real Estate Salesperson
• Real Estate Broker
• Property Manager (in most cases)

These positions involve activities like listing properties, negotiating sales, and managing leasing agreements, which are restricted to licensed professionals.

What Happens if You Do Real Estate Without a License in NY?

Engaging in real estate activities without a license in New York can lead to severe legal consequences and penalties:

• Misdemeanor charges: Unlicensed real estate activity is considered a misdemeanor in New York.
• Fines:
  • First violation: Up to $150
  • Second violation: Up to $500
  • Third and subsequent violations: Up to $1,000
• Potential jail time: Misdemeanor convictions can result in up to one year in jail.
• Civil penalties: The New York Department of State can impose civil penalties and fines.
• Legal action: The Attorney General may commence legal proceedings against unlicensed individuals.
• Prohibition from recovering rent: Unlicensed property owners may be denied the right to recover possession of premises for nonpayment of rent.
• Ineligibility for future licensing: Violations may affect an individual’s ability to obtain a real estate license in the future.
• Reputational damage: Engaging in unlicensed activities can harm one’s professional reputation in the real estate industry.

What Disqualifies You From Being a Real Estate Agent in New York?

Becoming a real estate agent in New York can be an exciting and rewarding career path. However, the New York Department of State’s Division of Licensing Services maintains strict standards to ensure the profession’s integrity. Before you begin this journey, it’s crucial to understand what factors might disqualify you from obtaining a real estate license in the New York State.

Criminal Record

One of the most significant disqualifying factors is a criminal record, particularly felony convictions. The state takes a serious view of criminal history when evaluating license applications.

• Felony Convictions: Generally result in automatic disqualification.
• Exception: You may still be eligible if you obtain a Certificate of Relief From Disabilities or a Certificate of Good Conduct.
• Misdemeanors: Some misdemeanors, especially those related to fraud or financial crimes, can also be disqualifying.

Sex Offenses

Any conviction for a sex offense leads to automatic disqualification, with no exceptions. This strict policy is in place to protect public safety and maintain the integrity of the real estate profession.

Financial Responsibility

Your financial history is scrutinized as part of the application process. Issues that may raise red flags include:

• Unpaid judgments
• Tax liens
• Bankruptcies involving fraud

While not all financial difficulties will automatically disqualify you, a pattern of financial irresponsibility could be problematic.

Previous License Issues

If you’ve held a professional license before, your history with that license will be considered:

• Prior revocations of any professional license
• Disciplinary actions related to real estate or other professional licenses
• Sanctions for professional misconduct

These issues don’t always lead to disqualification but will be carefully evaluated.

Application Integrity

Honesty is paramount in the application process. Misrepresentation or omission of relevant information can result in:

• Immediate disqualification
• Potential legal consequences
• Future ineligibility for licensing

Always err on the side of full disclosure when completing your application.

Educational Requirements

Failure to meet the educational prerequisites will disqualify you from obtaining a license. In New York, you must complete:

• 77 hours of salesperson qualifying education from an approved provider
• Proof of course completion must be submitted with your application

Child Support Obligations

Being delinquent on child support payments can affect your eligibility:

• Four or more months behind in payments can lead to license suspension
• Resolve any outstanding child support issues before applying

Ethical Standards and Competence

The Division of Licensing Services assesses applicants’ character and competence:

• Demonstrating untrustworthiness can lead to disqualification
• Incompetency in the licensed role is grounds for denial

Mental Competence

Individuals declared mentally incompetent by a court of law may be disqualified from obtaining a real estate license.

The Application Review Process

The New York Department of State’s Division of Licensing Services reviews each application thoroughly:

• They have discretion in evaluating applications
• Additional factors not listed here may be considered
• Each case is reviewed individually

How Much Do Beginner Real Estate Agents Make in NY?

Beginner real estate agents in New York can expect varying income levels, but generally start on the lower end of the salary range:

• Entry-level agents with less than 1 year of experience make about $53,862 annually.
• First-year real estate agents in New York earn an average of $93,860 per year or $45.12 per hour.
• On the lower end, newcomers might earn close to $30,000 annually.
• In New York City, first-year agents can expect a wide range in earnings, with some starting closer to the lower spectrum of approximately $30,000 annually.
• The average base salary for real estate agents in New York starts around $41,795.

Real estate agent income is largely commission-based and can vary significantly. Factors influencing earnings potential include:

• Location within New York
• Market conditions
• Individual performance and networking skills
• Type of properties handled (residential, commercial, etc.)
• Support and resources provided by the sponsoring brokerage

Unlicensed Real Estate Roles in New York

The New York real estate market offers various opportunities for individuals without a license. While many activities require licensing, there are several important roles available to unlicensed professionals:

Real Estate Assistant

• Responsibilities: Scheduling appointments, managing files, assisting with marketing materials
• Average Salary: $60,155 per year in New York City as of January 2025

Marketing Specialist

• Responsibilities: Creating and implementing marketing campaigns, managing social media, designing promotional materials
• Salary Range: $45,000 – $70,000 per year

Home Stager

• Responsibilities: Preparing properties for sale by arranging furniture and decor
• Income: Often project-based, can vary widely

Research Assistant

• Responsibilities: Gathering information for comparative market analyses, compiling data on market trends
• Salary Range: $35,000 – $50,000 per year

Maintenance Coordinator

• Responsibilities: Scheduling repairs, coordinating with contractors, assisting with property inspections
• Salary Range: $35,000 – $55,000 per year

When is a Property Manager Not Required to Have a Real Estate License in NY?

In New York, a property manager is not required to have a real estate license in the following situations:

1. When the property manager’s duties are strictly limited to maintenance and repairs of the property. If a property manager only handles maintenance tasks and does not engage in any leasing or rent collection activities, they do not need a license.
2. When managing a community association (such as a homeowners association). Community association managers in New York are not required to hold a real estate broker’s license.
3. When working as a salesperson or secretary under a licensed property manager. In this case, they can perform various tasks without obtaining their own broker’s license, as long as they work under the supervision of a licensed individual.
4. When working as an on-site resident manager who lives in the building they manage. These individuals typically do not need a separate real estate license for their duties.

What Tasks Are Illegal for an Unlicensed Salesperson to Perform in NY?

Based on New York real estate laws, unlicensed salespersons are prohibited from performing several key activities:

1. Listing properties for sale or rent
2. Selling, exchanging, or renting real estate
3. Negotiating real estate transactions
4. Collecting rent for the use of real estate
5. Negotiating loans secured by real estate mortgages
6. Showing properties to potential buyers or tenants
7. Discussing terms of transactions or providing advice on real estate matters
8. Receiving commissions or fees for real estate transactions

Engaging in these activities without a license is considered a misdemeanor in New York. Unlicensed individuals can face penalties, including fines and, in some cases, criminal charges. The New York Department of State has the authority to investigate and enforce these regulations.

Read our guide –  How to get your New York Real Estate License!

Career Potential in New York Real Estate

Starting a real estate agent career in New York offers significant financial and professional benefits. The vibrant and diverse market conditions present in New York enable agents to potentially earn between $55,000 and $200,000 annually, reflecting their skill levels, networking prowess, and market insight.

To enter this competitive field, aspiring agents must complete a 77-hour pre-licensing course and pass the state examination. Success hinges on a commission-based income structure, rewarding top performers generously. Successful agents excel by cultivating robust networking skills and maintaining a keen awareness of the latest market trends.

The profession also offers unique advantages such as flexible work hours and the independence to manage one’s business. Agents can specialize in different market segments- residential, commercial, luxury, or niche properties—allowing for tailored career paths that align with personal interests and expertise.

For those who are self-driven, enjoy building new connections, and are committed to ongoing professional development, pursuing a real estate career in New York is not just securing a job—it’s embarking on a dynamic and potentially lucrative professional journey. This path promises substantial monetary rewards and a fulfilling career crafted around individual lifestyle choices and ambitions.

Start Your Journey in New York Real Estate with MLS Campus!

Are you ready to embark on a rewarding New York real estate career? To become a licensed real estate agent in New York, you must complete 77 hours of pre-license education, a crucial step in your journey. At MLS Campus, we offer a comprehensive 77-hour course package designed specifically to meet the requirements set by the New York Department of State’s Division of Licensing Services.

Choose to Take Your New York Real Estate Training with MLS Campus

Whether you are just beginning your New York real estate career or want to open your real estate brokerage, MLS Campus is a New York accredited real estate school providing state-approved New York real estate training and experienced instructor support. Our interactive courses are designed to provide you with all the knowledge you need to flourish in your real estate profession. MLS Campus will support you every step of the way.

Our New York Real Estate Training includes:

• 24/7 access to your interactive online learning portal
• Access to instructor and technical support 7 days a week
• Free exam preparation and additional resources to help guide you in your real estate career.
• Easy to use interface. We ensure our online learning portal is easy to navigate!

All our real estate training courses are designed to fit your schedule and help you learn at your own pace. Learn on your PC, Mac, Tablet or Smartphone from the comfort of your own home. Our friendly support team is available 7 days a week to help you throughout every step of your New York real estate license course.

Take the First Step Toward Your Real Estate Career

Don’t wait to achieve your dreams! Enroll in MLS Campus today and take the first step toward obtaining your New York real estate license. With our expert guidance and resources, you’ll be equipped to navigate New York’s diverse real estate market complexities and build a successful career in the industry.

Don’t Wait. Enroll Today!

30 Days Limited Money Back Guarantee Policy

If you decide you’re not 100% satisfied within the First 30 Days of your initial purchase, simply contact us by email and request a cancellation and full refund. You will receive a full refund of your purchase price. If the final exam has been taken, a refund can not be issued. The Real Estate Exam Prep Master and the Exam Prep Math, if purchased separately are not refundable.

Course Duration

The course is active for six months from the date of purchase. We offer the 7th month for free if needed. If your course has been active for 7 months or more, you can purchase one-month extensions. It is possible to have the course extended by up to one year by purchasing monthly extensions online.

Customer Support: Call us at (877) 331-6235 or Contact us by Email

If we can assist you with Technical Support, General License Inquiries or Questions about Course Material please contact us.
Questions about course material: An Instructor is available Monday through Friday a week from 9 am to 7 pm (EST)
Technical Support or any other questions: Our office staff are available Monday through Friday a week from 9 am to 7 pm (EST)
We do our best to reply promptly to emails on Weekends
*Except for Major Holidays