Your Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Mississippi: Steps, Costs, and Tips

Mississippi is a southeastern U.S. state known for its deep historical roots, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes. It is bordered by Tennessee to the north, Alabama to the east, the Gulf of Mexico to the south, and Louisiana and Arkansas to the west, with the mighty Mississippi River forming much of its western boundary. The state’s capital and largest city is Jackson, a hub of history, music, and education.

Mississippi is steeped in history, from its Native American heritage, including the Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes, to its significant roles in the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. Its name derives from the Mississippi River, which has been central to its economy and way of life. Historically, Mississippi was an agricultural state that was once synonymous with cotton farming. While agriculture remains essential, its economy has diversified into industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism.

Mississippi’s culture is dynamic and deeply tied to its African American heritage. Recognized as the birthplace of blues music, the state has influenced countless other genres, including jazz, gospel, and rock. Food is another bookmark of Mississippi’s identity, with its cuisine boasting Southern staples like fried catfish, barbecue, and soul food. Festivals celebrating music, food, and local traditions are held during the year, drawing guests from around the world.

Moreover, Mississippi’s natural beauty is a defining aspect. The state has diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills and pine forests in the north to the fertile lands of the Delta and the sandy beaches of the Gulf Coast. The Gulf Coast region, in particular, is a famous destination with its beaches, seafood, and casinos.

Educationally, the state is home to notable institutions like the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) and Mississippi State University, which contribute to its cultural and intellectual life. Mississippi is a state that combines a proud heritage with natural charm, making it an essential part of America’s history and culture.

How do you become a real estate agent in Mississippi?

Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before starting the licensing process, guarantee you meet the following criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Citizenship: You have to be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident.
• Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).

Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education

You must complete 60 hours of pre-licensing real estate education from an MREC-approved provider. These courses cover essential real estate principles, Mississippi state laws, and industry practices.

• Key Topics:
  • Real estate contracts
  • Property ownership
  • Agency relationships
  • Real estate finance
  • Mississippi-specific real estate laws
• Delivery Options: You can take courses online or in person.

Submit Your Application to the MREC

Once you complete your pre-licensing education, you must submit an application to the MREC for approval to take the licensing exam.

Documents Needed:

1. Pre-Licensing Completion Certificate: Evidence of completing the 60-hour course.
2. Background Check:
   • You must undergo a criminal background check. Obtain fingerprints using an MREC-approved vendor.
   • If you have prior convictions, you may need to provide additional documentation for MREC review.
3. Application Fee: Pay the required non-refundable fee.
4. Pass the Mississippi Real Estate Exam

After MREC approves your application, you will be eligible to take the Pearson VUE’s real estate salesperson licensing exam.

Details of the Exam:

• Format: Multiple-choice questions divided into two sections:
  1. National Real Estate Topics
  2. Mississippi State-Specific Laws
• Passing Score: Typically, you need at least 70% to pass.
• Exam Fee: Expect to pay around USD 75- USD 85.
• Preparation: Consider exam prep courses or practice tests to boost your chances of success.

Find a Sponsoring Broker

You must work under a licensed Mississippi real estate broker to activate your license. Research brokers who align with your career goals and offer mentorship or training programs.

Why It’s Important:

• A sponsoring broker provides oversight and helps you gain experience.
• Your license cannot be activated without an affiliation with a broker.

Activate Your Real Estate License

Once you pass the exam and get a sponsoring broker, submit the following to the MREC:

1. Proof of passing the real estate exam.
2. Broker sponsorship form.
3. License activation fee.

Begin Practicing Real Estate

With your active license, you can:

• Help clients in buying, selling, or renting properties.
• Earn commissions on successful transactions.

Continuing Education:

• To maintain your license, complete at least 16 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years.
• CE courses include mandatory legal updates and electives on real estate practices.

Estimated Costs

Additional Tips

1. Research Brokers: Choose one that offers strong training and mentorship.
2. Network: Attend local real estate events and join organizations like the Mississippi REALTORS® Association.
3. Market Yourself: Build a professional online presence and network to attract clients.

By following these steps, you can successfully begin your career as a real estate agent in Mississippi!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a real estate license in Mississippi?

The time it takes to get a real estate license in Mississippi can vary depending on how quickly you complete each process step. Here’s a general timeline:

1. Complete the 60-Hour Pre-Licensing Education: This can take 2-6 weeks, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time.
2. Submit the Application and Complete Background Check: The Mississippi Real Estate Commission (MREC) may take 1-2 weeks to process your application and approve you for the exam. Depending on processing times, the background check can also take a few days to a few weeks.
3. Schedule and Pass the Real Estate Exam: After receiving approval from the MREC, scheduling the exam through Pearson VUE usually takes 1-2 weeks. Once you pass, you’ll move to the next step.
4. Find a Sponsoring Broker and Activate Your License: Depending on your connections and research, finding a broker can take a few days to a few weeks. Once you secure a broker, submitting the necessary documents to the MREC and activating your license typically takes 1-2 weeks.

The process can take as little as 2-3 months for those moving quickly or 4-6 months for those balancing other responsibilities.

Is the Mississippi real estate exam hard?

The Mississippi real estate exam can be challenging, especially the state-specific portion, as it tests detailed knowledge of Mississippi laws. However, with suitable preparation, including studying the material thoroughly and taking practice exams, many find it manageable. Success depends on your dedication to studying and understanding the concepts.

How much does a freight broker earn in Mississippi?

The earnings of a freight broker in Mississippi can vary widely based on factors like experience, location, business volume, and whether they are self-employed or work for a company. On average:

• Entry-level freight brokers or those starting earn around USD 40,000 to USD 50,000 annually.
• Experienced brokers or those with a well-established client base can earn between USD 60,000 and USD 80,000 annually.
• Top-performing brokers or successful business owners may earn over USD 100,000 annually, particularly if they handle high freight volumes or specialize in profitable niches.

Freight brokers often work on commission, usually a percentage of the revenue from each shipment they coordinate. This commission-based structure means earnings can fluctuate and are directly tied to performance and business volume.

How much money does a realtor make in Mississippi?

The income of a realtor in Mississippi changes widely depending on factors like experience, location, the number of transactions they manage, and the price of properties they sell. On average:

• Annual Income: Real estate agents in Mississippi typically earn between USD 40,000 and USD 60,000 annually.
• Top Earners: Experienced and high-performing agents, especially those dealing in higher-value properties or closing many transactions, can earn over USD 100,000 annually.
• Commission-Based Earnings: Realtors usually work on commission, earning a percentage of the sale price of each property. The typical commission rate in Mississippi is around 5-6% of the sale price, split between the listing agent, buyer’s agent, and their respective brokerages.

Earnings can fluctuate based on market conditions, personal effort, and networking skills, with motivated and well-connected agents having the potential to earn significantly more.