If you’ve been asking yourself how to become a real estate agent, you’re in the right place. Have you ever dreamed of a career where you’re your own boss, control your schedule, and help people achieve one of their biggest life goals – buying a home? That’s the appeal of becoming a real estate agent.
The freedom, the potential to earn more, and the satisfaction of guiding clients through an emotional milestone make this career very attractive.
But you might be wondering: how to become a realtor in Ontario? What steps do you take? How long does it take? What will it cost? And most importantly, can you actually succeed?
I’ve been there too, asking the same questions. In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know, step by step. Think of this as your personal roadmap to success. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to start, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for a real estate career in Ontario.
How to Become a Realtor: The Reality of Being a Realtor®
Let’s be real for a moment. Becoming a real estate agent sounds exciting – and it is – but it’s not all glamour and open houses. Before you jump in, let’s talk about what it’s really like.
The Pros:
- Unlimited income potential – your effort directly impacts your earnings.
- Flexible schedule – no 9-to-5 office routine.
- You get to help people find their dream homes.
- Be your own boss and build your own business.
The Cons:
- Income can be irregular, especially at the start.
- You’ll often work evenings and weekends.
- There’s a lot of competition in cities like Toronto, Mississauga, and Ottawa.
- Upfront costs can be $5,000 or more before you earn your first commission.
Key Skills You Need: To succeed, you need more than just enthusiasm. You need:
- Strong communication skills – talking to clients, negotiating deals.
- Self-discipline – you’re running your own business.
- Resilience – rejection is part of the game.
- Tech-savviness – today’s agents use social media, CRMs, and virtual tours.
If this still excites you, you’re ready for the next step.
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The Pathway to Your Real Estate Career in Ontario
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can start becoming a real estate agent in Ontario, Canada, you need to check a few boxes:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent.
- Have legal permission to work in Canada.
If you meet these, you can move to the next step.
Step 2: The Educational Foundation – Pre-Registration Courses
This is where the real journey begins. To become licensed, you need to complete the mandatory real estate education program approved by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO).
Currently, Humber College is the provider for this program. It includes six courses covering:
- Real estate essentials.
- Residential transactions.
- Commercial transactions.
- Additional electives.
You can take these courses online or in person, whichever works for you. Many people study while working full-time or balancing family responsibilities.
If you’ve been searching, how do I become a real estate agent in Toronto? – This is your answer: complete these courses. It usually takes 6-12 months, depending on your pace. Some motivated students finish faster by taking multiple courses at once.
Tip: Schedule study hours like you would a job. Consistency helps you retain information and stay on track.
Step 3: The Key to Practicing – Your Real Estate License
A non-negotiable step in this process is obtaining your license from the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). This is your legal permission to practice and is essential for anyone looking to become a realtor in Ontario.
The licensing process involves passing the provincial RECO exam, a crucial milestone that tests your knowledge of real estate law, ethics, and best practices. While the pre-registration courses teach you the material, passing the exam requires dedicated preparation.
Many students use practice exams, flashcards, and group study sessions. Don’t cram – aim to understand the concepts. This will help you not just pass the exam but also serve your future clients confidently.
Want a step-by-step breakdown of the exam, study tips, and application process? Read our detailed guide: How to Get Your Ontario Real Estate License.
Step 4: Find Your Home – Choosing a Brokerage
Once you pass your exam, you can’t just start selling houses. You must register with a RECO-registered brokerage.
This is a big decision. Your brokerage will be your professional “home.” Here’s what to look for:
- Brand Power: Big names like RE/MAX, Royal LePage, or Century 21 can give you instant recognition and marketing power.
- Commission Splits: Understand how much of each deal you keep. Some brokerages offer 70/30 splits, others offer 100% commission models with desk fees.
- Mentorship Programs: New agents benefit from shadowing experienced agents and learning through real-world scenarios.
- Marketing Support: Do they help with advertising, social media, and lead generation tools?
- Office Culture: Do you feel comfortable with the team and leadership?
Take your time. Interview multiple brokerages in Toronto, Vaughan, Brampton, and other Ontario cities before committing. The right fit can make a huge difference in your success. Check out GTA’s #1 Brokerage for New Agents – Join RE/MAX Millennium if you want strong mentorship and training.
Step 5: Launch Your Business – Beyond the License
Congratulations – you’re licensed! Now the real work begins.
Building Your Brand
Create professional business cards, set up a website, and build your social media presence. Your brand is how clients will remember you. Post valuable tips about the market, share open house invites, and show your personality.
Finding Your First Clients
Start with your sphere of influence – friends, family, coworkers. Let everyone know you’re now a Realtor®. Attend local events, join community Facebook groups, and host open houses. Don’t be afraid to knock on doors or make calls.
Essential Tools
To stay organized and competitive, you’ll need:
- CRM software like Follow Up Boss or HubSpot to manage leads.
- A smartphone with a good camera for photos and videos.
- A reliable car – you’ll be driving clients around.
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The Financial Investment: What Does It Cost to Become a Realtor in Ontario?
Becoming a licensed realtor in Ontario is a rewarding journey—but like any profession, it comes with some startup costs. Here’s a breakdown of what you should budget for when getting started:
1. Pre-Registration Courses
Estimated Cost: $3,000 – $4,000
Before you can even think about selling homes, you’ll need to complete the Real Estate Salesperson Program, which is the official education provider in Ontario. This program includes:
- Mandatory online coursework
- Interactive simulation sessions
- In-person or virtual exams
These courses provide the foundation you’ll need to operate professionally and legally in the Ontario real estate market.
2. RECO Exam Fee
Estimated Cost: Around $100
Once you’ve completed your courses, you’ll need to pass the RECO (Real Estate Council of Ontario) exam. This is the final test to assess your knowledge before you can register as a licensed salesperson.
- Typically multiple-choice
- Covers real estate law, practices, and ethics
- The fee is per attempt, so study well
Studying doesn’t have to be stressful. Learn how to study for the real estate exam with smart strategies, study guides, and tips to help you stay focused and pass with ease.
3. Registration & Insurance
Estimated Cost: $1,500 – $2,000
After passing the exam, you’ll register with RECO, and you’ll also need Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects you against potential legal claims.
This includes:
- RECO registration fee
- RECO insurance fee (mandatory)
- Association dues (if joining local boards like OREA or TRREB)
4. Brokerage Desk Fees
Estimated Ongoing Cost: $100 – $500/month
You must work under a registered real estate brokerage to trade in real estate. Most brokerages charge a monthly “desk fee” or take a commission split from your sales.
- Some charge flat monthly fees
- Others take a percentage from each deal
- Choose a brokerage that matches your career goals and budget
5. Marketing Materials
Estimated Starting Cost: $500+
You’ll need to invest in your personal branding to attract clients. First impressions matter in real estate!
This typically includes:
- Professional business cards
- Lawn signs and open house signage
- A personal website or agent profile
- Branded clothing or name tags
Pro tip: Don’t skimp on marketing—this is how you stand out in a crowded market.
Total Initial Investment: $5,000 – $8,000+
This is a general estimate, and actual costs can vary depending on:
- The brokerage you choose
- How much do you spend on marketing
- Whether you join professional associations (strongly recommended)
The startup investment may seem steep, but it’s part of launching a long-term career. Plan your finances, treat it like a business, and focus on building strong foundations. The more prepared you are, the faster you’ll see returns from your real estate career.
How Long Does the Entire Process Take?
If you don’t know “how do I become a real estate agent in Toronto?” or anywhere else in the province, the good news is—you can do it in less than a year if you stay focused and motivated.
Here’s what the timeline usually looks like:
1. Complete the Pre-Registration Education
Timeframe: 6 to 12 months (on average)
To become a realtor in Ontario, the first step is completing the Real Estate Salesperson Program.
You can study full-time or part-time depending on your schedule. Some people finish in as little as 6 months, while others take closer to a year if they’re working or studying at a slower pace.
2. Find a Brokerage to Join
Timeframe: 1 to 4 weeks
Every new real estate agent in Ontario must register with a licensed brokerage to legally trade in real estate.
Here’s what this part includes:
- Researching brokerages in your area (Toronto, Mississauga, etc.)
- Scheduling interviews or meetings
- Choosing the right fit for your goals and support needs
Some brokerages will accept you quickly, while others may take more time to respond.
3. Register with RECO (Real Estate Council of Ontario)
Timeframe: 1 to 2 weeks
Once a brokerage has accepted you, you’ll apply for your official real estate license through RECO. This is the final step before you can start working as a licensed agent.
4. Start Working as a Licensed Real Estate Agent
Total Estimated Time: 8 to 14 months
From the day you start your courses to the day you’re ready to take on clients, the whole process to become a real estate agent usually takes under one year if you stay on track.
To start your career, you’ll need a license. Wondering how? Here’s a quick guide on how to get a real estate license in Ontario to help you understand the full process.
Quick Tip: Start Sooner, Succeed Faster
The faster you complete your courses and choose a brokerage, the sooner you’ll be working in high-demand areas like Toronto, Mississauga, or Ottawa. With the right focus, you could be a fully licensed realtor in under a year!
Pro Tips for New Real Estate Agents in Ontario
- Find a mentor – shadow a successful agent to learn real-world skills.
- Keep learning – attend workshops, watch market updates, and read industry blogs.
- Embrace technology – use video tours, social media ads, and CRMs.
- Be patient – most agents take months to close their first deal, but consistency pays off in the long run.
Ready to Become a Real Estate Agent?
Becoming a real estate agent in Ontario isn’t just about getting a license – it’s about building a business and a brand. You’ve learned the steps: education, licensing, brokerage selection, and launching your business.
Yes, it takes time, money, and effort. But if you’re dedicated, the rewards are worth it. You’ll have the freedom to control your career, the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives, and unlimited income potential.
By following this roadmap, you’re well on your way to understanding exactly how to become a real estate agent and build a thriving practice as a new realtor in Ontario.
Are you ready to take the first step? Your future career is waiting – and it starts now. Don’t go it alone! We’ve listed the best brokerage for new agents in Canada offering strong mentorship, low fees, and real growth potential.
