Real Estate Courses Chicago Professionals Trust to Start Strong

If you're thinking about entering the real estate industry, Chicago is a great place to begin. The city's real estate market is active, diverse, and full of potential. Whether you're new or switching careers, taking real estate courses in Chicago is your first step. In this guide, you’ll learn what to expect, how to enroll, and how to move forward after licensing.

Why You Need Real Estate Courses in Chicago

In Illinois, you must complete pre-license education before applying for your real estate license. The state requires 75 hours of coursework approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). These courses prepare you to understand state laws, ethics, and property basics.

Without this training, you can’t legally assist clients in buying or selling homes. Choosing the right school and program makes a big difference in your success.

Course Breakdown and Requirements

To qualify for the Illinois broker license, you need to complete:

• 60 hours of pre-license coursework
  
  

• 15 hours of interactive, instructor-led sessions
  
  

Courses are available in multiple formats. You can take classes online, attend in person, or choose a hybrid option. Each method suits different learning styles and schedules.

After finishing the required hours, you’ll need to pass a course exam before taking the state licensing test.

Course Formats That Fit Your Schedule

Everyone learns differently, so flexibility matters. In Chicago, many schools offer three main formats:

1. Live Online Classes – Attend via Zoom or other webinar tools. You can ask questions in real time.
   
   

2. In-Person Learning – Great for those who prefer classroom interaction and immediate feedback.
   
   

3. Self-Paced Online Courses – Study anytime from anywhere. This is ideal for working professionals.
   
   

Many students prefer live sessions for better structure and support. However, if your schedule is tight, self-paced learning is a solid option.

How to Pick the Right Real Estate School

Not all schools are the same. When comparing real estate courses in Chicago, keep the following points in mind:

• Are the courses approved by IDFPR?
  
  

• Do they offer live instructor support?
  
  

• Are there student reviews and success stories?
  
  

• Is there help with scheduling the exam?
  
  

• Do they provide post-license or CE options?
  
  

A good school supports you from day one through exam prep and licensing. Some also help you connect with brokerages for your first job.

Inland Real Estate School: A Trusted Option

One of the top choices in Chicago is Inland Real Estate School. This school has over 23 years of experience and has trained more than 12,000 students. They offer:

• More than 25 program options
  
  

• Live and online classes
  
  

• Home-study packages
  
  

• Exam preparation sessions
  
  

• One-on-one tutoring
  
  

The school also partners with national education providers. This gives you access to courses outside Illinois, which is helpful if you plan to expand.

What You’ll Learn in These Courses

Real estate courses in Chicago teach more than laws and contracts. You’ll also gain knowledge in:

• Real estate math
  
  

• Listing and marketing properties
  
  

• Financing and mortgages
  
  

• Fair housing laws
  
  

• Client communication
  
  

• Property valuation
  
  

These topics prepare you for real-world work and help you pass both the school and state exams.

Exam and License Application Process

After finishing your course, the next steps are:

1. Pass the course final exam – Most schools require a score of 75 percent or more.
   
   

2. Register for the state exam – Administered by Pearson VUE. You’ll need to pay a $55 fee.
   
   

3. Find a sponsoring broker – Required before you apply for your license.
   
   

4. Apply through IDFPR – Submit your application and pay a licensing fee.
   
   

This process may take a few weeks. Most students complete their coursework and pass the exam within 2 to 3 months.

Career Paths After Finishing Your Course

Once licensed, you’ll find several career options open to you. You can:

• Work as a residential sales agent
  
  

• Join a commercial brokerage
  
  

• Focus on leasing or rentals
  
  

• Manage investment properties
  
  

• Assist in property development
  
  

Your school can often guide you toward job opportunities. Some even offer resume help or networking events.

Continuing Education and Growth

Illinois requires realtors to complete continuing education every two years. These CE courses keep your license active and knowledge current. Most schools, including Inland, offer CE packages as well.

You can also take additional courses in related areas, like:

• Real estate investing
  
  

• Property management
  
  

• Mortgage lending basics
  
  

These help you grow your expertise and increase your income opportunities.

Cost of Real Estate Courses in Chicago

Course fees can vary, depending on the format and school. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses:

• Pre-license course: $350 to $600
  
  

• Exam registration: $55
  
  

• Background check and fingerprinting: $60
  
  

• License application: $125
  
  

Expect to spend between $600 and $900 total. Some schools offer payment plans or financial aid options. Inland Real Estate School also accepts PayPal, Affirm, and other flexible methods.

Conclusion

Real estate courses in Chicago open the door to a meaningful and profitable career. With the right school, flexible options, and expert guidance, you’ll be well-prepared for success. Choose a trusted provider, study smart, and get ready to pass the exam on your first try. Your future in real estate begins now.

Ready to start real estate courses in Chicago? Enroll today with a top provider and begin building a rewarding career in one of the city’s most exciting industries.