Real Advantage Institute     

Frequently asked questions (FAQ):

Real Estate and Mortgage Licensing Courses – New York

This page answers the most common questions about becoming a licensed real estate agent or mortgage loan originator in New York and enrolling at Real Advantage Institute.

How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent in New York?

Do I need a high school diploma to become a real estate agent in New York?

No. New York State does not require a high school diploma or GED to obtain a Real Estate Salesperson License.

However, you must meet the following requirements:

    •    Be at least 18 years old
    •    Complete the 77-hour state-approved licensing course
    •    Pass the New York State licensing examination
    •    Obtain sponsorship from a licensed New York real estate broker
    •    Submit your license application through eAccessNY

Real Advantage Institute provides the required licensing course and prepares students for the state exam and professional practice.

How long does it take to become a licensed real estate agent?

Most students complete the licensing course in:

    •    As little as 10 days (accelerated format), or
    •    3 to 6 weeks (standard schedule)

After completing the course and passing the state exam, you can apply for your license immediately.

What career opportunities are available after getting licensed?

Career opportunities include:

    •    Real Estate Salesperson
    •    Residential Real Estate Agent
    •    Commercial Real Estate Agent
    •    Leasing Agent
    •    Real Estate Associate

Many licensed agents work independently, part-time, or full-time.

Do you help students pass the exam?

Yes. Real Advantage Institute provides:

    •    Structured exam preparation
    •    Instructor support
    •    Optional private tutoring
    •    Career development guidance

Our programs are designed to help students successfully complete licensing requirements and transition into professional practice.

Becoming a Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO)

What are the requirements to become a Mortgage Loan Originator in New York?

To become a licensed Mortgage Loan Originator, you must:

    •    Have a high school diploma or GED
    •    Complete 20 hours of NMLS-approved education
    •    Pass the SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test
    •    Submit an application through the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS)
    •    Complete fingerprinting and background checks

Real Advantage Institute offers approved mortgage licensing education to help you meet these requirements.

Course Formats and Learning Options:

What learning formats are available?

Real Advantage Institute offers three flexible learning formats:

Hybrid Learning (Recommended)
Combination of live virtual Zoom classes and in-person classroom instruction

Live Virtual Classes (Zoom)
Attend live instructor-led classes from your home or office

Online Self-Paced Courses
Complete courses independently through approved learning platforms

Which learning format is best for me?

Live Virtual or Hybrid Learning is best if you:

    •    Prefer instructor guidance
    •    Want structured learning
    •    Benefit from classroom interaction

Self-paced Online Learning is best if you:

    •    Prefer flexible scheduling
    •    Want to learn independently
    •    Have strong self-discipline

Our team can help you choose the best option.

Enrollment and Registration

How do I enroll?

To enroll, contact Real Advantage Institute:

Phone: 718-217-REAL (7325)
Email: office@realadvantage.us

Our team will assist you with:

    •    Course selection
    •    Schedule options
    •    Registration
    •    Enrollment confirmation

When do classes begin?

New classes begin regularly throughout the year.

Flexible schedules include:

    •    Weekday classes
    •    Evening classes
    •    Weekend classes
    •    Accelerated programs

Contact our office for the next available course schedule.

Can I attend classes from home?

Yes. Live virtual classes are conducted using Zoom and can be attended from anywhere in New York State. Students must use a computer or tablet with internet access. Course Completion and Licensing.

Will I receive a certificate after completing the course?

Yes. After completing the course and passing the final exam, you will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate allows you to schedule the New York State licensing exam.

Is the course certificate the same as a real estate license?

No. The certificate allows you to take the state licensing exam.

After passing the state exam and meeting all requirements, New York State will issue your license. Attendance and Course Requirements

Am I required to attend all classes?

Yes. New York State requires students to complete all required instructional hours.

Attendance is monitored to ensure compliance with licensing regulations.

What happens if I miss a class?

Limited excused absences may be permitted in accordance with New York State regulations. Contact our office for assistance if scheduling issues arise. 

Technology Requirements

What technology do I need?

Students need:

    •    Computer or tablet
    •    Internet connection
    •    Zoom application

No advanced technical skills are required.

Technical support is available if needed.

Refund Policy

Refunds may be available if requested before the course begins, subject to school policy and processing fees.

Contact our office for full refund policy details.

Phone: 718-217-REAL
Email: office@realadvantage.us

Why Choose Real Advantage Institute?

Real Advantage Institute is a New York State-approved real estate and mortgage education provider offering:

    •    State-approved licensing courses
    •    Live instructor-led training
    •    Hybrid virtual and in-person learning
    •    Career development support
    •    Flexible scheduling