How to Become a Real Estate Broker in 2025: Requirements, Steps, and Career Growth

India’s real estate industry is set to reach $1 trillion by 2030. Surprising? Well, India recently surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy. In the midst of a national economic boom, the retail industry is undoubtedly flourishing. 

New residential, commercial, and other emerging formats like senior housing, co-living spaces, and rental assets are creating new opportunities for real estate agents and brokers. Therefore, if you are thinking of establishing a career in the real estate industry, this is the right time to begin! 

If you have been eyeing a career that offers flexibility, independence, and the potential to earn more than average, a real estate broker can be your choice. However, many people are confused about how to become a real estate broker.

Well, like any other industry, building your career as a real estate broker comes with choices, steps, and dedication.  

Who is a Real Estate Broker? 

Following the requirements and the right path becomes essential to building a successful career. We know that you have already been into it, but before you make the final decision, try to understand what you are going for and how it will lead you to the future. 

Many people think that real estate agents and brokers are the same. So, it is better to mitigate your confusion at the first stage. It is more important for a beginner to understand who a real estate broker is than how to become a real estate broker. 

While buying our new home or renting a property, we mostly deal with a real estate agent who solves our shelter problem quickly. But above them, there are licensed real estate brokers who deal with all sorts of property conditions. 

Unlike agents, they have the authority to build their own real estate firm and manage all sorts of related transactions.

Most likely, real estate agents work under brokers to operate and accelerate projects. However, as a broker, you can operate independently! 

The responsibility of a broker is much more than that of an agent, leading to crucial responsibilities like – 

• Advertising available properties 

• Creating property listings 

• Buying and selling properties and homes 

• Leasing of properties 

• Handling transactions 

• Negotiating with both parties 

• Engage in property inspection and repair 

The best part is that you can now earn more compared to real estate agents with this level of authority, making it an appealing career choice. 

Requirements to Become a Real Estate Broker? 

When they say, age is just a number, they forget another fact: the more you delay, one more opportunity is lost. Every day, hundreds of applicants in India are applying for their favourite job, and real estate is no different. 

So, the moment you become 18, you have all the opportunities to become the next real estate agent.  

• Educational background – though there is no mandatory high-level qualification or degree required, a minimum qualification of 12th grade or equivalent is required. However, if you have a bachelor’s degree in business/finance, it may work as a plus.  

• Work experience – Though there is no specific criterion, you require a RERA registration certificate before you legally start working as a real estate broker. However, you need to work as a licensed agent to gain hands-on experience.  

• Licensing requirements – Pass the real estate licensing exam and get the broker’s license.  

• Soft skills – You need powerful communication skills to negotiate, network, and become the talk leader whom people can trust easily. This not only signifies your reputation in the market but also establishes your character as a real estate broker. 

Step-by-Step Process to Become a Real Estate Broker 

Know the steps to become a broker- 

Get Licensed as a Real Estate Agent 

Becoming a real estate agent is your first step. Why? Because you can’t jump straight to brokerage without first understanding the ins and outs of the industry. Each state has its licensing requirements, which often include completing a certain number of educational hours and passing an exam.  

Gain Experience in the Field 

Once you are licensed, it’s crucial to gain experience. Most states require you to work under a brokerage for a period of 1 to 3 years. This experience will help you learn how to manage clients, handle transactions, and understand market dynamics. 

Complete Broker Education Courses 

Next, you will need to complete specialized broker education courses, which provide advanced knowledge about real estate practices, law, and ethics. These can often be found in both online and in-person formats, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your schedule. 

Pass the Broker Licensing Exam 

After completing your coursework, the next hurdle is passing the broker licensing exam. Each state has its own exam structure, typically including multiple-choice questions covering law, estate management, and finance. To prepare, consider taking practice exams or joining a study group to boost your confidence. 

Apply for Your Broker License 

Once you have passed your exam, it’s time to handle the paperwork. You’ll need to submit your application, pay any fees, and wait for approval. It might seem like a tedious step, but trust me, it’s all part of the process. 

However, based on state rules, your application dates, requirements, and steps may vary. For instance, if you are from Haryana, you might need to pay around INR 25,000 for the license. Also, if you are from Maharashtra, obtaining RERA certification requires you to pass an exam administered by MahaRERA. 

Consider Opening Your Own Brokerage 

After receiving your broker license, you may want to consider opening your brokerage. While this offers independence and the potential for higher profits, it also comes with challenges like managing compliance, staff, and clients. 

Career Growth and Opportunities 

So, what’s next after becoming a broker? 

You have chosen a career path that comes with ample opportunities. So, how to become a real estate broker should not be the end of your queries or curiosity. When the possibilities are vast, you can explore more of the brokerage ownership process. 

Think about it! You will manage your own team! Handle not only one but many specialized areas like – 

• Commercial real estate 

• Luxury apartment 

• Short-term and long-term leases 

Your income potential is huge in the real estate industry. So it will be wise if you explore opportunities as a real estate broker and try to split your commissions and sales, leading to a promising financial future. 

Apart from that, you can mentor new agents and become the next industry leader! At this stage, your authority will speak as your career! 

Therefore, try to find out those magical roles in real estate that will lead you to a sustainable career. 

Challenges to Expect 

No matter how adventurous your industry is and how flexible your job designation is, in 2025, there will be market fluctuation. So, insecurities might work in the back of your mind, which is good in a way. 

No one should feel so comfortable at their job that they gradually become habituated in a laid-back mentality. With market threats come market opportunities.

There will be competition among experienced real estate brokers, and that is where you can seal the deal with balanced compliance, client management, and business growth. 

What are the Future Trends of Real Estate? 

Looking ahead, the real estate industry is evolving, especially with the rise of technology-driven platforms. Digital tools and platforms are transforming the real estate industry completely. 

In between such a transition, you have to be skeptical about your skills to deliver the best possible outcome to your clients. Therefore always – 

• Keep an eye on the market 

• Adapt quickly 

• Focus on the technological advancement that you can utilize. 

The crucial success stage of your career is yet to come! Now, when you realize that there is more than just knowing how to become a real estate broker, step up to grab opportunities and be firm with your choices. Do your market research and come up with new ideas and queries, as we are eager to listen to you.