Getting a real estate license in the state of Louisiana is a 4 step process:

1. Enroll in an approved 90 hour real estate course
2. Pass the school exit test
3. Apply to take the state test
4. Pass the state test

There are a number of real estate schools approved by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission. One of the most popular is the Burk Baker School of Real Estate and Appraising (http://www.BurkBaker.com). You can complete the required hours by taking either an online course or enrolling in a "live" class. Online classes offered through Burk Baker cost anywhere from $99 to $295, depending on the length of time you choose to complete the course, and live classes through this school are $595. As part of our incentive package, Coldwell Banker Group One Realty subsidizes the cost of the school by refunding $100 for any of Burk Baker's online courses or a series of subsidies that result in a net cost to you of $275 for his live class.

Any real estate class is designed specifically to assist you in passing the state required test. Their focus is therefore not on making you a successful real estate agent. Coldwell Banker's intensive in-house training (which is free) will give you all the knowledge needed to start a successful career.

Once you complete the requirements for the school, you will take an exit test that allows you to apply to the state of Louisiana to take the state examination. Most students in Northeast Louisiana take the state test in Shreveport. However, there are a number of locations throughout the state where the test is administered. The state exam is fair but not considered easy. You must study during the course and remain prepared until you take the exam. There are two parts to the state exam, the state portion and the national portion. In the event you fail either, you are required to only retake the one your failed.

Total cost of the entire real estate process can range from $1,000 to $1,500. This includes the cost of the school, fee for the state exam, initial required fees to join the Northeast Louisiana Board of Realtors, purchase of a Supra Key (lock box key), and the first year of Errors and Ommissions Insurance. Taking advantage of subsidies offered through CBGOR reduces these overall costs. Some of the cost are also pro-rated. We can give you specific costs at any time. Just call us.