How to become a real estate agent in West Virginia: Step-by-Step Guide

The process to become a realtor in West Virginia involves five main steps: meeting basic requirements, completing 90 hours of pre-licensing education, passing the state exam, finding a sponsoring broker, and submitting your license application. 

Let’s dive into each step so you can start your real estate journey with confidence.

Step 1 – Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you can begin your real estate education, you’ll need to ensure you meet West Virginia’s basic licensing requirements. The good news is that these requirements are straightforward and accessible to most people.

Basic Requirements Checklist:

• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Residency: U.S. citizen or legal resident (WV residency not required).
• Background: Clean criminal background and good moral character.
• Language: Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.

The West Virginia Real Estate Commission takes character and truthwordiness seriously, so be prepared to disclose any criminal history or professional license issues during your application process.

Step 2 – Complete 90 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education

The West Virginia Real Estate Commission requires all potential agents to complete 90 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education. This course covers everything from real estate law and ethics to property valuation and financing.

What You’ll Learn:

The 90-hour curriculum covers essential topics including:

• Real estate law and regulations.
• Property ownership and land use controls.
• Real estate contracts and agency relationships.
• Property valuation and appraisal methods.
• Real estate financing and mortgage principles.
• Fair housing laws and ethics.
• West Virginia-specific real estate practices.

West Virginia Real Estate Schools:

• 1. The CE Shop: Offers fully online courses with interactive learning modules and self-paced study options with instructor support.
• 2. Kaplan Real Estate Education: Provides both online and classroom options with comprehensive study materials and has an established nationwide reputation.
• 3. Real Estate Express: Features a 100% online platform with mobile-friendly learning capabilities.

These are among the top-rated providers for completing your 90-hour pre-licensing education requirement in West Virginia. Each school offers different features and pricing structures, so research which option best fits your learning style and budget. 

Be sure to verify that any school you choose is approved by the West Virginia Real Estate Commission before enrolling.

Step 3 – Pass the West Virginia Real Estate Exam

After completing your education, you’ll need to pass the West Virginia real estate licensing exam administered by PSI. This exam tests both your general real estate knowledge and understanding of West Virginia-specific laws and practices.

Exam Structure:

• National Portion: 80 questions covering general real estate principles. Topics include contracts, financing, property ownership, and federal laws.
• West Virginia State Portion: 30 questions focusing on WV-specific laws and regulations. Covers state licensing laws, disclosures, and local practices.

To pass the WV real estate exam, you need to achieve a score of 70% on both National and State examination. Focus especially on local laws and regulations unique to West Virginia to ensure you’re fully prepared. 

That’s where Lexawise comes in – our platform provides the focused practice and study materials you need to master these requirements and pass your exam on the first try.

Exam Prep Tips:

1. Take Practice Tests: Use multiple practice exams to identify weak areas.
2. Focus on Math: Real estate calculations appear throughout the exam.
3. Study State Laws: The WV portion heavily emphasizes local regulations.
4. Review Key Terms: Make flashcards for important definitions.
5. Time Management: Practice completing questions within time limits.

Step 4 – Find a Sponsoring Broker

Securing a real estate broker sponsorship in WV is a mandatory step. Look for brokerages that offer comprehensive training and strong support, ensuring that you’ll have the guidance you need during your first years.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Sponsor:

1. What training do you provide for new agents?
2. How is the commission structure set up?
3. What marketing support do you offer?
4. How many agents work at this brokerage?
5. What are your expectations for new agents?
6. Do you provide leads or is lead generation my responsibility?
7. What ongoing education opportunities are available?

Finding WV Brokerages:

• West Virginia Real Estate Commission Website: Official broker directory.
• Local Real Estate Associations: Regional MLS organizations.
• Networking Events: Real estate meetups and industry events.
• Online Research: Company websites and reviews.

Step 5 – Apply for Your License

Once you’ve passed your exam and secured a sponsoring broker, you’re ready to submit your license application to the West Virginia Real Estate Commission (WVREC).

You have to include:

• Completed application form.
• Proof of education and exam passage.
• Sponsoring broker agreement.
• Background check and fingerprinting ($50-75).

Timeline: 2-3 weeks after complete submission Application Fee: $75-$100

Bonus: What Happens After You Get Licensed?

Congratulations! You’ve successfully obtained your West Virginia real estate license. But your journey is just beginning. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your license and building a successful career.

Continuing Education:

• Requirement: 7 hours annually.
• Renewal: Every 2 years ($100-150 fee).
• Topics: Ethics, fair housing, state law updates.

First-Year Success Tips:

1. Join local real estate associations.
2. Develop your professional brand.
3. Set clear, measurable goals.
4. Find an experienced mentor.
5. Stay organized with CRM systems.

FAQs About Becoming a Real Estate Agent in West Virginia

How much does it cost in total to get licensed? 

Typically $600-$1,000 including education, exam, and application fees.

How long does the process take? 

Most people complete licensing in 2-4 months.

Can I take WV real estate classes online? 

Yes! West Virginia approves several online education providers.

Is real estate a good career in West Virginia? 

Yes, WV offers diverse opportunities from urban Charleston properties to mountain retreats, with growing tourism increasing demand.

What if I fail the exam? 

You can retake after 24 hours. Focus on weak areas and consider additional prep courses.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a real estate agent in West Virginia is an achievable goal that leads to a rewarding career. The state’s diverse market offers opportunities for agents with different interests and specialties.

Ready to start?

1. Enroll in pre-licensing education today.
2. Create a study schedule.
3. Research potential brokerages.
4. Connect with local real estate professionals.

Recommended Next Steps:

Choose from top-rated schools like The CE Shop, Kaplan, or Real Estate Express, and begin your 90-hour education requirement. This covers all the essential information you need to become a real estate agent in West Virginia. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time – start building your real estate career today!

When you’re ready to practice for your exam or need extra support during your mandatory coursework, remember that Lexawise has comprehensive resources designed to help you pass the exam and achieve your licensing goals.