Real estate is one of Ontario’s most exciting and rewarding career paths, but many people aren’t sure how to become a realtor in Ontario or what the process involves. Whether you dream of helping families find their forever homes or want the flexibility of being your own boss, becoming a licensed realtor starts with a clear set of steps. 

From meeting the requirements to passing exams and registering with RECO, this guide will walk you through what it takes and answer common questions about timelines, earnings, and exam difficulty.

How to Become a Realtor in Ontario Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To begin, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent
• English proficiency

These requirements ensure that you are ready to begin getting your real estate licence in Ontario.

Step 2: Enroll in the Real Estate Salesperson Program

The official journey starts with the Real Estate Salesperson Program, approved by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). Courses cover topics such as property law, transactions, and compliance, giving you a solid foundation for your career. Most students complete this stage in 12–18 months, though RECO allows up to 24 months for the pre-registration phase.

Step 3: Pass the Exams

Most courses and simulations include exams to test your understanding. Is the Ontario real estate exam hard? The exams are challenging, but they are designed to ensure you can represent clients ethically and professionally. With dedicated and consistent study, practice tests, and guidance from instructors, most students succeed.

Step 4: Register With RECO

Once you complete your program and pass the exams, you must secure employment with a registered brokerage before applying to RECO. This makes you officially eligible to trade in real estate in Ontario. You’ll also need to join a real estate board and the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) for access to professional resources and MLS listings.

Step 5: Launch Your Career

After registration, you’ll begin working under a brokerage. This is where you gain practical experience, from marketing properties to negotiating offers. You’ll also need to complete a short compliance course and two elective courses within your first two years of registration.

So, how much do beginner real estate agents make in Ontario? Naturally, newcomers to the industry want to know the answer to this question. Income varies. Many first-year agents earn around $20,000–$40,000 as they establish themselves. Over time, your earnings typically grow as you build a network and gain experience.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Realtor in Ontario?

The timeline usually ranges from 12 to 24 months. The speed depends on how quickly you complete your courses, when you schedule exams, and the processing time for RECO registration. 

So, how to become a realtor in Ontario? The answer is: meet the requirements, complete the Real Estate Salesperson Program, pass your exams, register with RECO, and launch your career. It’s a structured path that prepares you for success in one of Ontario’s most rewarding professions.

Ready to get started? Take the first step today by exploring the Real Estate Salesperson Program.

Contact RECO for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How long does it take to become a realtor in Ontario?

Answer: The timeline usually ranges from 12 to 24 months. The speed depends on how quickly you complete your courses, when you schedule exams, and the processing time for RECO registration. 

Question: How much do beginner real estate agents make in Ontario?

Answer: Naturally, newcomers to the industry want to know the answer to this question. Income varies. Many first-year agents earn around $20,000 – $40,000 as they establish themselves, but motivated individuals in busy markets may earn more.

Question: Is the Ontario real estate exam hard?

Answer: The exams are challenging, but they are designed to ensure you can represent clients ethically and professionally. With dedicated and consistent study, practice tests, and guidance from instructors, most students succeed.