Real Estate Broker FAQ

Brokers have a higher license and can supervise agents and run brokerages.

Usually a few years of agent experience plus courses and an exam.

They can, through their own sales and agents’ splits.

The median annual wage for real estate brokers was $73,220 ($35.20 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $37,110 and the highest 10% earned more than $143,300.

Most people need about 2–3 years as an agent plus broker courses of training. A high school diploma is typical. Brokers first work as licensed agents, then complete broker pre-licensing education and pass a broker exam. Many have college degrees.

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.

It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +0.8% from 2025–35 (little or no change), with about 7,800 openings each year. Upsides include higher earning potential than agents; a common challenge is that income depends on sales.

Key technical skills include real estate law and contracts, negotiation, pricing and market analysis, and agent supervision. Employers also value leadership, negotiation, and communication.

Common credentials include State real estate broker license, Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB), Graduate, REALTOR Institute (GRI), and Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR). Brokers must hold a state broker license, which usually requires agent experience, broker courses and an exam. Brokers are responsible for supervising affiliated agents and managing client funds.