BECOMING A REALTOR®
From getting your Alabama real estate license to connecting with a community that supports your growth, HAAR is here to help you take the next step.
YOUR CAREER. YOUR COMMUNITY.
A career in real estate is an opportunity to help people, build relationships, and make a difference in your community. As you get started, HAAR connects you with education, resources, and people who can support your journey.
An Alabama real estate license allows you to practice real estate under applicable licensing rules. A REALTOR® is a real estate professional who joins the National Association of REALTORS® and commits to its Code of Ethics.
Through HAAR, eligible members connect with their local, state, and national REALTOR® associations.
LET’S GET STARTED
Every career starts somewhere. Use these steps to explore the process, then check with the Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC) for current requirements and deadlines.
01
Start with an Alabama-approved salesperson pre-license course and learn the foundations of real estate practice.
02
After completing your course, follow AREC’s instructions to schedule and pass the Alabama salesperson licensing examination.
03
Find a brokerage that fits your goals. Ask about its onboarding process, expectations, training, and support for new agents.
Your license must be issued to your qualifying broker before you conduct real estate business.
04
Complete AREC’s application process, including the required documentation and background-check steps. Follow AREC’s instructions and confirm the deadlines that apply to you.
05
Connect with our Membership team about your application, REALTOR® association membership, and ValleyMLS access, if applicable.
06
New members receive an invitation from Membership to attend in-person orientation. Continue building your skills through post-license education, classes, and HAAR resources.
Remember: Licensing steps and deadlines can depend on your circumstances. Use AREC as your source for current requirements.
PLAN AHEAD
Starting a real estate career comes with upfront and ongoing expenses. The amount you spend will depend on your education provider, brokerage, membership, and business needs.
Pre-license and post-license courses.
Exam, application, and background-check costs.
Association application fees and dues.
MLS access, key service, and lockboxes, as applicable.
Brokerage expenses, insurance, marketing, and other startup costs.
Costs vary. Contact Membership for current HAAR and ValleyMLS fees. Check with AREC and your education provider for current licensing and course costs.
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
There’s more than one way to grow your real estate career. Find the information that fits your next step.
Explore Alabama’s reciprocal licensing information and requirements.
Review AREC’s broker licensing information and education requirements.
Review company licensing information and connect with HAAR about membership and MLS needs.
Have questions about joining HAAR or getting started as a REALTOR®? Our Membership team is here to help.