You do not need real estate experience to become a Florida real estate agent. You do need a clear plan, structured training, and a brokerage that supports brand-new agents.
Start with the 63-hour pre-licensing course. Enroll with Casa Academy to build your foundation and get exam-ready.
For the full licensing overview, visit the Casa Academy homepage.
First-year roadmap for new agents
This timeline helps you focus on the right actions at each stage. Adjust the pace to your schedule, but keep the sequence.
Months 1-2: Licensing foundation
- Complete the 63-hour course and take detailed notes.
- Build a study plan with 5-7 hours per week.
- Join Florida-focused study groups for accountability.
Months 3-4: Exam readiness + application
- Schedule your course final exam and pass with 70%+.
- Submit your DBPR application and fingerprints early.
- Book your state exam date while you are in study mode.
Months 5-6: Brokerage selection + onboarding
- Interview brokerages and compare training, leads, and fees.
- Choose a broker with a defined new-agent plan.
- Complete onboarding and set your weekly routine.
Months 7-12: Pipeline and skill building
- Build a daily lead-gen habit (calls, open houses, referrals).
- Track every conversation in a CRM.
- Set monthly activity goals and review them weekly.
Training tips when you have no experience
- Shadow experienced agents at open houses.
- Role-play buyer and seller consultations weekly.
- Practice contract review with your broker or mentor.
- Focus on one local farm area to learn pricing fast.
Skills to focus on early
- Prospecting and follow-up systems.
- Local market knowledge and pricing basics.
- Buyer consultation structure and objection handling.
- Contract timelines, forms, and compliance.
Choose a brokerage built for new agents
The right brokerage shortens your learning curve. Ask for specifics on training, leads, and support.
- How many training sessions happen in your first 90 days?
- Do they offer a mentor for the first few transactions?
- What lead sources are available for new agents?
Budget for your first year
Plan for course tuition, exam fees, association dues, MLS access, and marketing tools. A realistic budget reduces stress and helps you stay consistent.
- Keep 3-6 months of living expenses if possible.
- Choose tools that support lead generation first.
- Track expenses so you know your break-even target.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to pick a brokerage until after your exam.
- Skipping daily lead generation during onboarding.
- Spending heavily on branding before you have leads.
- Avoiding role-play or feedback because it feels awkward.
FAQs
Q: Can I start real estate in Florida with no sales background?
A: Yes. Your success will depend more on consistent lead generation, training, and follow-up than prior sales experience.
Q: How long does it take to get my first deal?
A: Many new agents close their first deal within 3-6 months after licensure, but results vary based on activity and brokerage support.
Q: Do I need to be full-time to succeed?
A: Full-time helps, but part-time agents can succeed with strict scheduling and focused lead-gen blocks.
Q: What is the fastest way to learn once I am licensed?
A: Shadowing top agents, attending every training session, and practicing scripts weekly will accelerate your progress.