In Michigan, you can earn your real estate broker license in three simple steps, in about three months, and for less than $1,000. And as long as you’re currently working as a real estate agent in Michigan, it’s relatively easy to pursue a broker’s license.
We’ll walk you through the process of how to become a real estate broker in Michigan, talk about the minimum experience you’ll need to begin the process, and answer some common questions to help you determine if becoming a broker is right for you. Let’s get started.
What Are the Broker License Requirements in MI?
To be eligible for a Michigan real estate broker license, you must:
If you don’t have a current Michigan real estate salesperson license, you will need to complete Michigan’s 40 hours of prelicensing courses for agents within 36 months of submitting your broker application to the state.
In terms of the three years of experience you need, this may include working as a real estate salesperson or any closely related professions (such as land developer, investor, licensed builder, loan or trust officer of a mortgage company, and real property appraiser).
Keep reading to learn more about the fastest way to complete the process. We’ll also answer common questions about the time commitment, level of difficulty, costs, and more.
How to Get Your Michigan Real Estate Broker License
We know you’re excited to get started in your new career. Here’s how to get a Michigan real estate broker license in just a few months.
1. Complete a 90-hour Broker License Course
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Cost:
As low as $590 with AYPO
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Time commitment:
1-2 months
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Helpful resource:
5 Best Michigan Real Estate Schools in 2023
To become a Michigan real estate broker, you need to complete 90 hours of classwork presented by a state-approved school. One of our recommended providers, AYPO Real Estate, divides the Michigan real estate broker course into three 30-hour classes as follows:
| Broker Prep |
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| Valuation of Residential Properties |
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| Commercial Real Estate Brokerage |
|
Course Exemptions
The following individuals may be exempt from taking a portion of the real estate broker courses:
- Those with a law degree are exempt from 66 hours of real estate broker courses (equivalent to 60 hours of real estate broker education and six hours of classes on civil rights and fair housing law).
- Those with a master’s degree in business administration or finance are exempt from 60 hours of real estate broker education.
- Those with a bachelor’s degree in business or finance are exempt from 30 hours of real estate education.
Course Providers
There are several high-quality, in-person real estate schools in Michigan. However, if you’re looking for an online school that allows you to complete the courses at your own pace, we recommend AYPO Real Estate for their convenient, all-inclusive packages ranging from $590 to $650.
5 Best Michigan Online Real Estate Schools
2. Pass the Michigan Real Estate Broker License Exam
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Cost:
$79
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Time commitment:
3.5 hours
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Helpful resource:
PSI candidate information bulletin
Cost:
$79
Time to Complete:
3.5 hours
Format:
115 multiple-choice questions
Bring to Testing Center:
2 pieces of valid ID
Passing Grade:
75%
After you’ve completed your Michigan real estate broker course requirements, you can schedule and take the broker exam. The fastest way to schedule your exam is through the testing company’s website. You can choose to take your broker exam from one of the PSI testing locations in the following Michigan cities:
- Dearborn
- Gaylord
- Grand Rapids
- Holt
- Marquette
- Southfield
You’ll need to present two forms of valid ID. One must be government-issued and include your photo and signature; the other needs to include your full name in print and your signature.
You aren’t allowed to bring any personal items into the exam room. However, secure storage is available for your purse, wallet, cell phone, and other items.
The results of your exam will be available immediately upon completion. If you pass, you can fill out and submit the Michigan real estate broker license application on the spot. If you don’t pass, you can retake the exam as many times as needed, but you’ll have to pay $79 every time.
Free Real Estate Practice Exam + 7 Hacks to Help You Ace Your Licensing Test
3. Apply for a Michigan Real Estate Broker License
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Cost:
$143
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Time commitment:
2-3 hours
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Helpful resource:
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs guide
Once you’ve passed the Michigan broker exam, you can immediately fill out the real estate broker application through your MiPLUS account. MiPLUS is the website used by Michigan’s Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) office.
Before you begin filling out the application, make sure you’ve selected the correct form. If you plan to launch your own real estate firm, fill out the individual broker form. If you plan to continue working with another firm, fill out the associate broker form.
The online application is relatively straightforward, but you’ll want to ensure you have all the required documents you need to upload to your MiPLUS account to support your application. Here are detailed instructions to help you navigate the system. You’ll need to submit the physical address for your business in Michigan on the form, which may be the same as your home address.
Once you pay a $143 application fee and submit the form to the licensing agency, you’ll be given a transaction number. Save this number to check the status of your application online.
How to Become a Real Estate Broker (Without the Stress)
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Michigan Broker License?
Michigan Real Estate Governing Body:
Board of Real Estate Brokers & Salespersons
Education Requirements:
90 Hours
Cost of Michigan Broker Courses:
$590-$725
Total Estimated Costs:
$820
It costs approximately $820 to get your Michigan real estate broker license. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you’ll incur when you pursue your real estate broker license in Michigan:
Sample Michigan Real Estate Broker License Costs
| Classes (90 hours) | $590-$725 (through AYPO) |
| Broker license application | $143 |
| Broker exam registration | $79 |
| Total costs | $812-$947 |
(Michigan real estate broker license costs as of August 2023)
Does a Real Estate Broker Make More Than an Agent in Michigan?
Yes, typically a real estate broker makes more than a salesperson. According to The Close’s salary information database, a real estate broker in Michigan makes an average of $74,107 per year. On the other hand, an agent earns an average income of $66,342.
Since the one-time cost to become a broker in Michigan is less than $1,000, it makes sense that you’d make this investment in your career. However, as you know, the average income of those in the real estate industry varies greatly depending on the person’s skill, work ethic, and so much more.
The Average Real Estate Broker Salary for Every State
Michigan Real Estate Broker License FAQs
We’ve outlined a relatively fast way to level up your real estate career and obtain your Michigan real estate broker license. But you may be asking yourself if the effort is worth it. We’ll help you decide if becoming a Michigan real estate broker is right for you and answer common questions about the process.
Should I get a Michigan real estate broker license?
Getting your broker license will not guarantee you an annual bump in income, but it’s important to note that real estate brokers have more opportunities to earn.
Once you have your broker license, you are allowed to strike out on your own and work for yourself as an individual broker. Or you might like the idea of overseeing a team of agents and earning a portion of your income through their commissions and by collecting desk fees.
Learn more about the pros and cons of becoming a broker, the day-to-day nature of the role, and the differences between agents and brokers in our article: Real Estate Broker vs Agent: A Head-to-Head Analysis.
How long does it take to become a broker in Michigan?
It’ll take approximately three or four months to become a real estate broker in Michigan, depending on the amount of time you have in your schedule to devote to the effort.
You can speed up the process by completing your broker education requirements through an online real estate school known for offering top-notch courses.
I have a broker license in another state. Does Michigan offer license reciprocity?
No, Michigan does not have reciprocal agreements with any other state. Applicants must meet all education, examination, and experience requirements for licensure.
Related article: Real Estate License Reciprocity & Portability: A State-by-State Guide
More Career Resources From The Close
We hope you’re now armed with all the info you need to get started. The Close offers valuable career resources for new brokers and for every stage of your career. You can subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest articles direct to your inbox. If you’d like to network with other real estate industry professionals across the country, you can join the conversation happening now in our Facebook mastermind group. We wish you success in the next phase of your career!
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