FAQS

MAI gives students the flexibility to purchase courses individually or as a package. Regardless of the option you choose, tuition must be paid in full at the time of enrollment. Each course within the package is also available for individual purchase, allowing students to progress through the program at their own pace. However, opting for a package will always offer cost savings in the long run.

Modern Agent Institute offers several class delivery methods to fit different learning styles and schedules. Here’s a breakdown of each option and how they work:

1. Classroom (In-Person Learning)

• Attend classes at one of Modern Agent Institute’s campus locations
• Learn in a traditional, instructor-led setting with peers
• Best for those who prefer face-to-face interaction and structured schedules

2. Live Broadcast (Virtual Classroom)

• Attend live, instructor-led classes online from anywhere
• Interact with instructors and classmates in real time
• Requires a computer with a webcam and microphone

3. Online Interactive (Self-Paced + Instructor Support)

• Fully online, self-paced courses with interactive content
• Includes videos, quizzes, and instructor guidance
• Ideal for students who want flexibility with some structure

4. Online Correspondence (Self-Paced Reading & Exams)

• 100% online with PDF or textbook-based reading materials
• Work through the course at your own pace
• Requires completion of quizzes and a final exam
• Best for independent learners who prefer self-study

5. Blended Learning (Mix & Match Options)

• Customize your experience by combining different formats
• Example: Take some courses in-person and others online

Each method is designed to provide flexibility, whether you prefer structured classes or self-paced learning.

Congratulations on finishing your classes! Here’s what you need to do next to get your Texas Real Estate Sales Agent License:

1. Submit Your License Application

• Apply online through the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)
• Pay the $185 application fee

2. Get Fingerprinted for a Background Check

• Schedule an appointment with IdentoGO and pay the $38.25 fee
• Your fingerprints will be used for a criminal background check by TREC

3. Schedule & Pass the Texas Real Estate Exam

• Register for the exam through Pearson VUE ($43 fee)
• The exam consists of:
  • National Portion: 85 questions (passing score: 56/85)
  • State Portion: 40 questions (passing score: 21/40)
• You have 4 hours to complete the exam

4. Find a Sponsoring Broker

• You must work under a licensed Texas real estate broker
• Choose a brokerage that fits your career goals (training, commission structure, support, etc.)

5. Receive Your Active Real Estate License

• Once you pass your exam and a broker sponsors you, TREC will issue your license

Next Steps: Start Your Real Estate Career!

• Begin working with clients and building your business
• Complete 98 hours of Sales Apprentice Education (SAE) before your first license renewal (within 2 years)

If you’ve already submitted your application, fee, and class certificates to the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), you’ll need to wait up to 15 days for approval. Once you receive your approval letter with the special code, you can schedule your licensing exam with Pearson Vue.

Pearson Vue offers exams at testing centers across Texas, and you can schedule your exam online or by phone once you have your approval code. If you’re in a hurry, you can check for cancellations to find an earlier test date.

No, Exam Prep is not required to attain your Texas real estate license, but it is highly recommended.

The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) only requires you to complete the six mandatory real estate courses and pass the state licensing exam through Pearson Vue. However, many candidates find the exam challenging, and Exam Prep courses can help you review key concepts, practice test questions, and improve your chances of passing on the first attempt.

If you have a criminal record, you may still be eligible to receive a Texas real estate license, but it depends on the nature of your conviction. The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) reviews criminal histories on a case-by-case basis to determine if the offense impacts your ability to practice real estate.

Key Factors TREC Considers:

• Type of offense (felony vs. misdemeanor)
• How long ago the offense occurred
• Whether it involved fraud, dishonesty, or violence
• Evidence of rehabilitation

Steps to Determine Eligibility:

1. Request a Fitness Determination (FD):

   • If you’re unsure whether your record will disqualify you, you can submit a Fitness Determination (FD) request to TREC before applying for a license.
   • This costs $52 and allows TREC to assess your eligibility upfront.

2. Apply for Your License:

   • If you skip the FD and apply directly, TREC will conduct a background check during processing.
   • If they have concerns, they may request additional documentation or deny the application.

No, Business Etiquette is not required to attain your Texas real estate license.

The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) only requires you to complete the six mandatory real estate courses and pass the state licensing exam through Pearson Vue. However, having good business etiquette can help you succeed in real estate by improving your communication, professionalism, and client relationships.

In Texas, Sales Agent Apprentice Education (SAE) classes are required for real estate agents renewing their license for the first time. TREC requires 98 hours of SAE coursework, which must include:

Mandatory SAE Courses:

1. Legal Update I (4 hours)
2. Legal Update II (4 hours)

Elective SAE Courses (Choose to total 90 hours):

Different real estate schools offer various packages, but common SAE course options include:

• Real Estate Marketing
• Real Estate Brokerage
• Property Management
• Real Estate Finance
• Residential Inspection for Real Estate Agents
• Real Estate Investment

If you do not pass your homework or exam in a Texas real estate course, the policies depend on the real estate school you’re taking the course with. However, here’s what generally happens:

If You Fail a Homework Assignment:

• Most schools allow retakes or corrections.
• You may need to redo the assignment until you achieve a passing grade.
• Some schools require a minimum score (e.g., 70%) to pass.

If You Fail a Course Final Exam:

• Retake Policy: Most schools allow at least one retake of the exam.
• If you fail the retake, you may need to retake the entire course before attempting the exam again.
• Some schools have waiting periods before you can retest.

If You Fail the State Licensing Exam:

• You can retake the state exam with Pearson Vue (fees apply).
• TREC allows you up to 3 attempts to pass.
• If you fail 3 times, you must take additional education before retesting.

Yes, most Texas real estate schools include class materials in their course packages, but it depends on the school and the type of package you purchase.

What’s Typically Included?

✅ Digital Course Materials – Online textbooks, PDFs, and slides
✅ Practice Quizzes & Exams – To help you prepare for tests
✅ Study Guides – Key concepts summarized for easy review
✅ TREC-Approved Course Content – Required topics for licensing

Possible Additional Costs:

❌ Printed Textbooks – Some schools charge extra for hard copies
❌ Exam Prep Courses – Some packages include them, others don’t
❌ SAE Courses – Only needed for your first license renewal

In Texas, real estate course credits expire after 2 years from the completion date.

What This Means for You:

• If you completed your courses within the last 2 years, they are still valid, and you can continue with the licensing process.
• If your courses are older than 2 years, they have expired, and you will need to retake them before applying for your license.

You can check your course completion dates through your real estate school or by logging into your TREC account.

If you’ve failed the Texas real estate licensing exam (state or national) 3 times, you’re required to take additional education before attempting the exam again. Here’s what you need to do:

Steps to Take After 3 Failures:

1. Complete Additional Education:
   • You must complete an approved real estate education course that focuses on areas you struggled with during the exam.
   • This is typically 30 hours of education (some schools offer a remedial course designed specifically for this situation).
2. Submit Proof of Completion:
   • Once you complete the additional coursework, you’ll need to submit proof of completion to TREC.
3. Reschedule the Exam:
   • After TREC reviews your new coursework, they will allow you to schedule another attempt at the exam.

Tips for Success After Multiple Attempts:

• Review your weak areas: Look at your previous exam score reports to identify areas you struggled with and focus your studies on those.
• Consider taking an exam prep course: These can provide targeted practice questions and study guides to help you prepare more effectively.

In Texas, a college degree does not directly count toward the required real estate license courses. TREC mandates specific courses to be completed for eligibility to sit for the licensing exam, and college degrees do not substitute for these required real estate courses.

However, certain college coursework may help you in other ways, such as:

• Real Estate-related degrees (e.g., a degree in business, finance, or real estate) may provide you with a foundational understanding of concepts covered in the required courses.
• Real Estate Education Provider: Some schools might offer degree-based programs or advanced courses that align more closely with the state requirements, but the degree itself is not a replacement for the mandated 180 hours of pre-licensing education.

Yes, you can mix up the delivery methods for your Texas real estate courses! Many real estate schools offer a variety of formats, allowing you to choose a combination of:

Delivery Methods You Can Combine:

1. Online Courses (Self-Paced):

   • Study on your own schedule, and access materials at your convenience.
   • This is the most flexible option, and many people prefer it because it allows you to go at your own pace.

2. Live Online Classes (Instructor-Led):

   • These are virtual classes that are scheduled at specific times and taught by an instructor in real-time.
   • If you prefer interaction and structure, this might be a good option for you.

3. In-Person Classes:

   • Some schools offer classroom settings where you can attend lectures in person.
   • This can be helpful if you prefer face-to-face learning.

4. Hybrid Options:

   • Some schools allow you to mix online learning with in-person classes, depending on your schedule and preferences.
   • This can provide a balance of flexibility and interaction.

Important to Note:

• As long as you complete the required 180 hours of pre-licensing education and the courses are approved by TREC, you’re free to choose the combination of delivery methods that works best for you.

In Texas, there is no specific order in which you must complete your real estate license courses. However, some students find it helpful to follow a sequence that builds a solid foundation. Here’s a recommended approach:

Suggested Course Order:

1. Principles of Real Estate I & II (30 hours total)

   • These are the core courses that lay the foundation for your real estate knowledge, including key concepts like property ownership, contracts, and real estate finance.
   • It’s helpful to start with these because they introduce essential concepts that will come up in other courses.

2. Law of Agency (30 hours)

   • This course covers the relationships between agents, clients, and customers, which is crucial for understanding real estate transactions.

3. Law of Contracts (30 hours)

   • Contracts are a huge part of real estate, and understanding them is key to passing the exam and working effectively as a real estate agent.

4. Real Estate Finance (30 hours)

   • This course helps you understand how real estate transactions are financed, including loans, mortgages, and the financial aspects of property ownership.

5. Promulgated Contract Forms (30 hours)

   • Learn about the official contract forms used in real estate transactions in Texas, which is important for handling contracts correctly.

6. Elective Courses (45 hours)

   • These can be completed in any order. You can pick topics that interest you or that will help with areas you feel less confident about, such as property management, real estate marketing, or appraisal.

Why This Order?

• The Principles and Law courses build the foundational knowledge you’ll need for more advanced topics, so starting with them can help set you up for success in later courses.

Yes, it is possible to retake a class before you take the Texas real estate state exam, but it depends on the specific school and the course you’re enrolled in. Here are some important things to consider:

If You Need to Retake a Course:

• Retaking a Course for Improvement: If you feel you didn’t fully grasp the material or want to refresh your knowledge, you can retake a class. Many real estate schools allow you to retake a course for a reduced fee or for free, especially if you’re taking an online course.

• Completion Before the Exam: You must complete all required coursework before applying to take the state exam, so retaking a class should be done well in advance of your exam date to avoid delays.

• TREC Approval: TREC doesn’t require you to submit transcripts for every individual class you take, but you will need to show proof that you have met the required 180 hours of education (and that your courses are from an accredited provider).

Is It Recommended to Retake a Class?

• If you’re struggling with specific areas, retaking a course may help reinforce the material, especially if you’re unsure about certain topics. You can also consider extra exam prep courses that focus on practice questions and exam techniques.

The online exam proctoring system allows you to take the Texas real estate licensing exam from the comfort of your own home, but with supervision to ensure the integrity of the exam. This system is managed by Pearson VUE, the testing provider for the Texas real estate exam.

How Online Proctoring Works:

1. Scheduling the Exam:

   • You’ll schedule your exam through Pearson VUE after receiving your approval code from the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC).
   • When scheduling, you’ll choose the online proctoring option (if available), which allows you to take the exam remotely rather than at a testing center.

2. System Requirements:

   • You must use a computer with a webcam and microphone.
   • You need a stable internet connection.
   • Your device will need to meet the technical specifications required by Pearson VUE. It’s best to check ahead of time to ensure your equipment is compatible.

3. ID Verification:

   • Before you start the exam, you’ll be required to show a government-issued ID to verify your identity. The proctor will visually check your ID and may ask you to show your surroundings to confirm you’re alone in a quiet, secure environment.

4. Monitoring During the Exam:

   • Throughout the exam, you will be monitored by a live proctor using your webcam and microphone.
   • The proctor will ensure that there is no cheating or unauthorized materials nearby. They may ask you to adjust the camera or show your workspace if needed.

5. Exam Environment:

   • You must be in a quiet, private space with no distractions. No one is allowed in the room with you during the exam, and you cannot use any materials (books, notes, phones, etc.) during the test.

6. Exam Process:

   • Once everything is set up and verified, you’ll take the exam just like you would in a physical testing center.
   • The exam is timed, and you can review your answers before submitting.

7. Post-Exam:

   • Once you finish the exam, the proctor will end the session and your results will be provided immediately after the exam is submitted. If you pass, you’ll be able to apply for your license!

Important Tips:

• Test your equipment ahead of time to ensure everything works smoothly.
• Follow all the rules and guidelines provided by Pearson VUE to avoid being disqualified.
• Choose a distraction-free environment where you can focus for the duration of the exam.

To check the status of your TREC (Texas Real Estate Commission) license application, you can follow these steps:

Steps to Check Your TREC License Application Status:

1. Log in to Your TREC Account:

   • Visit the TREC website: https://www.trec.texas.gov/
   • Click on “Online Services” and then select “My TREC Account”.
   • Log in using your username and password. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.

2. View Your Application Status:

   • Once logged in, you can see the status of your license application under the “Applications” section.
   • If your application is still under review, it will indicate that your approval letter is pending.
   • You’ll also be able to check the status of any required documents (such as course completions or background checks) and see if anything is missing.

3. Check for the Approval Letter:

   • If your application is approved, you’ll receive an approval letter that includes your special code to schedule your exam with Pearson Vue.

4. Follow Up:

   • If you don’t see any updates or if the process has taken longer than expected (usually up to 15 days), you can contact TREC directly:
     • Phone: 512-936-3000
     • Email: [email protected]

Additional Information:

• You can also check if any fingerprint or background check status is pending, which may delay the approval process.
• If there are issues with your application (like missing documents or other requirements), TREC will notify you through your account.