Getting right to the point, in order to obtain a real estate license, you have to take both a national and a state real estate exam.
And, like any test, just the mere fact that it’s a requirement, and that everyone HAS to pass it, can add a lot of stress and anxiety.
That’s why at Green Light Real Estate we recently hosted a 4-week, in person test prep course. We wanted to take away some of the stress, give more confidence, and just set folks up with the attitude and tips so that they can pass the tests the first time.
We didn’t invent some ingenious method to crack the code and ace the test. Instead, the intent was to lay out a realistic plan for studying for and passing.
For example, and this is not going to sound clever, in order to pass the test, folks have to sign up for the test. Everyone knows that, but we have found that being explicit about that has been really helpful for licensee candidates. Also, talking in a comfortable environment with others in the same boat offers reassurance.
Another “tip” is that passing the exam largely comes down to memorization. Depending on where you are in your life or your career, it may have been some time since you had to memorize terms. That means you can’t look them up. You can’t ask AI. You just have to have them memorized. Which involves repetition and practice. That’s the “tip”--it takes work. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Everyone worked through individual plans for what they wanted/needed to do in order to be ready for test day.
Math Anxiety is a real thing. It’s common for those preparing for the Vermont real estate license exam to get anxious about the math questions. That’s fair, you’re going to see many of them on the test. As a group, we worked through several common types of questions, sharing tips and insights. Being totally honest, as the instructor, I didn’t even get all of them right. That was fine! Gave a great opportunity to talk through what happened so we could all learn.
Here we’re talking about interest calculations, prorations, variations of commercial leases, mortgage qualifying ratios, and what I affectionately call “real estate math” and “real estate geometry”.
One of the biggest benefits of this free test prep course was that we could all ask questions of each other, and hear how others are thinking about the different questions and topics. Studying for a national exam can feel isolated and lonely. It’s honestly doubtful that anyone in your household really is excited about all the hours that you’re going to have to dedicate to studying. But when you’re in a room with other people going through the same stresses and with similar questions? That makes the preparation infinitely more enjoyable, and more productive.
We rounded out the test prep course by sharing what the job is really like. In particular, what the first year as a real estate agent is like. No sugar coating–we had an honest conversation about how folks acquire clients, learn the business, spend their time, manage finances, and more. Because hey, being a real estate agent is awesome, but it’s not for everyone. Might as well be upfront and honest about it!
If you’re thinking about getting your Vermont real estate license, and the test is holding you back, do yourself a favor. Call or email Green Light Real Estate to find out about the next free test prep course. For that matter, even if you have questions or just want more info about what the test is like, or are looking for a few tips and reassurance, just reach out. We’re happy to help, and to answer questions.
You only have to pass the exam once. And then once you do, you’re ready to start your new career!