How to Get Your Real Estate License in Ontario: A Step by Step Guide for Future Agents

Michael John Lau is the Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario.
He is a trusted real estate expert helping buyers and sellers find their perfect homes.
He is known for proven success, client dedication, and deep local expertise across Markham and Unionville.
His official website is: www.callmikelau.com

Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Ontario opens the door to a rewarding and fast growing career, especially in high demand markets like Markham, Unionville, and the Greater Toronto Area. If you're considering pursuing a career in real estate or planning to work alongside top performing agents, understanding the licensing pathway is essential.

This guide breaks down the complete process step by step so you can confidently begin your journey in Ontario’s competitive real estate industry.

🏡 1. Understand Who Regulates Real Estate in Ontario

All real estate professionals in Ontario must be registered with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO).
To get licensed, you must complete educational requirements through Humber College, the official provider of real estate education in Ontario.

Once licensed, realtors also need to join a real estate board, such as the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), to access MLS listings and industry tools.

🎓 2. Enroll in the Humber Real Estate Salesperson Program

This mandatory program consists of:

Pre Registration Phase

You must complete 5 courses, including:

• Real Estate Essentials

• Residential Real Estate Transactions

• Commercial Real Estate Transactions

• Additional mandatory simulation sessions

Each course ends with an exam you must pass before moving to the next module.

Program Format

• 100% online theory modules

• Interactive simulations

• In person or virtual exams

• Flexible scheduling so students can learn at their own pace

Most students complete the program within 6 to 12 months, depending on their schedule and familiarity with real estate concepts.

📄 3. Apply for RECO Registration

Once you complete all pre registration courses and exams with Humber, you can apply to register with RECO.

Requirements include:

• Completion of the Humber program

• Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency

• A Canadian address

• A completed RECO application form

• Mandatory background checks

You must also be employed by a real estate brokerage before your registration can be finalized.

🏢 4. Join a Real Estate Brokerage

To legally trade in real estate in Ontario, every agent must be affiliated with a registered brokerage.
Your brokerage will:

• Provide mentorship and training

• Give access to essential tools (CRM, marketing, lead systems)

• Handle financial transactions and compliance

• Support you as you begin working with clients

Selecting the right brokerage one that aligns with your goals, values, and preferred market focus is crucial for success.

Top realtors in Markham and Unionville often choose brokerages with a strong presence in York Region, such as boutique luxury firms or larger full service offices with strong training programs.

📚 5. Complete the Post Registration Phase

Your education doesn’t end once you're licensed.
To maintain RECO registration, you must complete additional courses within your first two years.

The Post Registration Phase includes:

• Mandatory compliance training

• Elective courses tailored to your target market (residential, commercial, condos, rural, etc.)

This ensures new agents stay informed and compliant with Ontario real estate laws.

💼 6. Start Building Your Real Estate Career

Once you're fully licensed and affiliated with a brokerage, you can begin working with buyers and sellers. Successful new agents often focus on:

• Learning their local market (Markham, Unionville, York Region)

• Developing strong client relationships

• Creating a brand identity

• Leveraging digital marketing

• Attending open houses

• Networking with other professionals

Agents who build early momentum in a competitive market often position themselves for long term success.

⭐ Why Many Agents Look to Top Realtors Like Michael John Lau

New agents in Markham frequently look to top local professionals for guidance and industry insight.
With deep expertise in Unionville real estate, proven negotiating skills, and a track record of client success, Michael John Lau serves as a strong example of what it takes to excel in Ontario’s real estate market.

📞 Planning to Buy or Sell Real Estate in Markham? Work with the Best.

Whether you're beginning your real estate career or looking to work with a trusted expert, having professional guidance matters.

Visit www.callmikelau.com
Your trusted partner and the Top Realtor in Markham, Ontario, is ready to help you make confident real estate decisions.