You really thought after passing your real estate exam and became a licensed realtor your school days were over? Ha!
Although we helped you with your real estate exam prep, other fantastic companies will need to help you with your CE licensing.
It’s only suitable for us to give you a list of the BEST Continuing Education (CE) schools we have vetted in every State; all you have to do is choose the best one that fits your circumstances, budget, and standards.
Quick Overview: Top 5 Best Real Estate Continuing Education
The best thing about CE institutions is that most (if not all) of them have efficiently transitioned online.
With the social distancing, the work-from-home setup, or some of us who are jampacked with other commitments (side hustles, family, etc.), the last thing we need is traveling near and far every day for a course that runs for a few hours.
As they say, time is of the essence — and thankfully, these CE institutions understand that!
NOTE: Keep in mind the prices are just approximate prices for comparison. They each have packages and individual courses on their websites. It would be best to check them out!
- Best Overall: McKissock Learning (~$147 unlimited package + membership)
- Best Value: The CE Shop (~$279.30 FULL value package)
- Best Budget: Mbition Real Estate (~$83.30 per 15 hours package only)
- Kaplan (~$15 to $56 per package)
- 360 Training (~$89 to $109)
More Thorough Reviews: Which Of These Real Estate Continuing Educations Should You Go For?
After a brief overview, let’s discuss the stand-out factors, pros, and cons of these CE schools. From there, it should be a lot easier for you to discern which one you should go for.
Best Overall: McKissock Learning (~$147 unlimited package + membership)
If you’ve heard of the Real Estate Express, then rest assured, you can trust McKissock Learning. They’re from the same family company, which is a telling factor of how much they’ve mastered this teaching field.
Source: mckissock.com
Source: mckissock.com
CE Program Features That Stood Out
Though under the same family as Real Estate Express, we chose the McKissock branch because of the more thorough courses.
As reflected by their names, express is more for those who prefer fast-paced courses. Learning is more geared towards deep understanding, which is an excellent investment for your career in the long run.
Here are the promises of McKissock that we appreciate:
- Incorporates the latest and most relevant industry trends
- It lets you practice your skills through the application
- Geared towards career advancement
Benefits We Appreciate
Here are the benefits of McKissock that might win you over:
- Wide-range of course offerings
- It covers 50 states (wherever you live, there’s a branch you can approach!)
- The live-chat sessions is a plus for online learning
- 24/7 access to materials and resources — learn at your own pace
- Intensive learning experiences (boot camp, webinar materials, aids, etc.)
- Friendly to use interface
Drawbacks to Consider
But you may also want to check out some drawbacks:
- Depending on the package, some have expirable access
- No hard copy of materials (purely digital)
Our Overall Thoughts
If you don’t mind investing more of your time and efforts for a more intensive online learning experience, go for McKissock Learning.
They have dedicated instructors for every package and well-prepared programs for each state. McKissock will provide you with the guidance you need for your state specifically, making it a lot easier for you to apply, submit, and learn.
They also have webinars and other supplementary learning materials other than the regular courses they offer.
The only downside is they don’t offer hard copies — so you’re technically not getting the materials in actuality; it’s all on their platform.
But the good news is you’ll have UNLIMITED ACCESS as a member (the fee is inclusive depending on the package you’ll avail).
We chose McKissock Learning as the best overall because of the quality education you get despite being online. Plus, for all of the benefits included, the price is already a terrific deal.
Additional tip: It’ll be more affordable to avail of the packages instead of the individual courses!
Best Value: The CE Shop (~$279.30 FULL value package)
The CE Shop is the most expensive package on this list, but it’s also the one that brings the most value to all of the bucks you’ll pay.
Source: theclose.theceshop.com
CE Program Features That Stood Out
Here are the features and promises of The CE Shop that we appreciate:
- Up-to-date learning content and platform
- Money-back guarantee
- Great customer service
- Choose your schedule
- Good passing rates
- Face to face quality of learning (despite online)
Benefits We Appreciate
Here are the benefits of The CE Shop that might win you over:
- 60-hour courses (that’s more than the usual number of hours)
- There are a lot of learning resources (e-books, digital flashcards, downloadable copies, etc.)
- They give actual exam tips, which is an efficient help rather than just courses.
- They have one of the best online platforms for the best learning experience
- Offline study options
- It saves where you left off (so you can start from there the next time you start!)
- Demo course and free trial programs
Drawbacks to Consider
But you may also want to check out some drawbacks:
- Not available in ALL states
- Considerably more expensive
Our Overall Thoughts
The package price of The CE Shop can come across as more expensive than others from the get-go, but considering the inclusions of the almost $300 rate, we assure you it’s the best value.
What we love about their services is their emphasis on customer support.
For online classes, experiencing technical glitches beyond your control is the WORST. It’s good to know there’s a customer service you can approach quickly here.
They also offer a wide variety of courses. So there’s A LOT for you to choose from depending on your needs.
The only con is they’re not available in all states, so you may have to check it out first here if they offer courses for where you live. If yes, then you’re good to go — all of them are state-approved.
And last but not least, what made us even more thrilled was their demo courses and free trial programs. This gives you a glimpse of the program that fits/aligns with you best.
Then you can easily withdraw if you think you’re a better fit for another program!
Best Budget: Mbition Real Estate (~$83.30 per 15 hours package only)
For those who are looking for the best self-paced CE program, Mbition got your back. Just a quick browse through their website, you’ll see all of the good reviews from their actual students!
Source: mbitiontolearn.com
CE Program Features That Stood Out
Here are the features and promises of Mbition that we appreciate:
- Quality and premium content of learning resources
- Good reviews from actual students
- It helps you stay compliant with your state’s real estate laws and regulations
- Quick customer support
- Over 50 years of experience
Benefits We Appreciate
Here are the benefits of Mbition that might win you over:
- Fast track option is available
- Self-paced and accessible 24/7
- Many discount opportunities
- Courses cover many topics — not just the common ones!
- Has one of the most accurate exam preps
Drawbacks to Consider
But you may also want to check out some drawbacks:
- Books and other materials are bought separately
- The package is inclusive of 15 hours only
Our Overall Thoughts
Mbition’s package is affordable, but keep in mind there are exclusions from the package pricing.
But they often give out promo codes and discounts, so be assured you’ll be making good purchase deals most of the time.
But what makes Mbition a good choice for many is it’s self-paced. You can go through the lessons and courses at your own pace and time and pick up where you left off!
The resources are also open 24/7, so you can access them on your LEAST BUSY days. It’s a perfect choice if you have other jobs or a family to raise — you don’t have to compromise your realtor career.
And you know what the best part is?
The prep exams are spot-on and accurate! Many users have testified they pass the licensing exams in one take because of the preparations and lessons in Mbition. It’s impressive, really!
Kaplan (~$15 to $56 per package)
Kaplan sells their courses individually, as opposed to the packaged ones that the above CE schools offer. This means more affordable pricing, too!
Source: affiliate.kapre.com
CE Program Features That Stood Out
Here are the features and promises of Kaplan that we appreciate:
- Focused real estate education
- Individual courses are based on credit hours
Benefits We Appreciate
Here are the benefits of Kaplan that might win you over:
- More individual courses — suitable for those who don’t need a whole package
- Carries other real state offers (exam preps, licensing, etc.)
- Affordable
- Has options for brokers and salespersons (more specialized)
- Actual interaction with the instructors
Drawbacks to Consider
But you may also want to check out some drawbacks:
- Old-fashioned interface (though it’s not as important)
- Packaged courses are only 9 hours
- Fewer course topics than others
Our Overall Thoughts
Kaplan has been in the field for a long time. So you know that with experience and expertise in the area, their courses are accurate and of good quality.
We placed Kaplan as #4 on our list since they offer cheaper individual packages that may be more helpful for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money in one go.
But keep in mind that it can be more expensive in the long run if you account for the expenses altogether.
Kaplan also allows shipping of materials (with additional pay) the other CE schools on this list don’t do. For some, having the materials in their physical form is a lot better than digital since you’ll have full access and ownership of the materials.
On top of this, they give you the chance to interact with your instructors live. So if you have questions and clarifications, you can quickly relay them to actual people and get real answers!
Our only “complaint” (well, not really, we don’t mind) with Kaplan is their site is not as modern and informative as compared to others.
It’s pretty straightforward, but only with the courses they offer, so we wish they could provide more information without digging deep into their site.
But overall, Kaplan is one of our most trusted CE schools when it comes to the content of what they’re teaching. Nothing beats experience in the field!
360 Training (~$89 to $109)
Of course, it’s understandable you want something more straightforward for those who are busy. After all, not everyone needs an interactive platform!
Source: 360training.com
CE Program Features That Stood Out
Here are the features and promises of 360 Training that we appreciate:
- You’ll get a certificate of completion
- 100% online, available 24/7
- It helps you with the pre-requisites of your state
- More than 20 years of experience
- Updated courses content
Benefits We Appreciate
Here are the benefits of 360 Training that might win you over:
- Straightforward courses
- Affordable prices
- Quick and easy process to fulfill your CE
- Self-paced learning system (saves progress)
- Available customer support seven days a week
- ADRE-approved courses
Drawbacks to Consider
But you may also want to check out some drawbacks:
- Not interactive
- Your only references are the course materials (few supplementary materials)
- Not available in all states
Our Overall Thoughts
While some enjoy interactive courses, some just need an excellent CE school without spending so much.
360 Training is your answer to that, and it doesn’t mean they compromise the quality. With their over 20 years of experience, they’re fully confident in their modules and contents!
We also like how their courses are pretty much credited, so you know you won’t be wasting time with whatever class you take, and you’re assured they’re ADRE-approved.
You’ll get 24 credit hours in one package, which is already more than those offered above for a much lower price. It’s a win-win!
Best Real Estate Continuing Education Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs] [Q&A]
Of course, we want to leave you equipped with everything you need to know about real estate continuing education.
This section will address the most frequently asked questions about this topic. We hope it helps!
What Are Real Estate Continuing Education Courses For? Should I Take Them?
A common misconception about real estate licenses is that once you have it, it stops there.
To ensure realtors remain up-to-date and educated with all the nitty-gritty details of the field, the commission requires them to keep studying to renew their license.
Otherwise, they will get revoked and expire.
CE courses are essential. That’s why there’s such a significant demand for them among realtors.
It’s also a good thing if you think about it since you’re practically helping many people deal with real estate matters — which is your expertise, technically!
So, if you’re a practicing realtor and want to continue practicing, then the answer is YES. You need to take them.
But if you’re still starting and still don’t have your licenses, you don’t have to just yet. As the name goes, it’s continuing education!
How Many Hours Do We Need To Credit For Real Estate CEs?
The requirements and renewal period vary for each state.
The usual is 24 credit hours for every two years, but then again, it’s best to check out the specifics to ensure you’re following the prescribed regulations.
Check out this compiled list for an idea. But you can also refer to the CE school websites we’ve provided for you above, and they’re beneficial when it comes to per-state requirements.
We’ll list them down here for your reference:
Are There Free Courses Online?
Technically speaking, it’s best to pay for actual CE schools since they already have credited courses.
The commission requires particular accreditation and certification to ensure you learned from credible institutions.
But if you want to practice separately for additional learnings, there are many helpful blogs and websites online. You can always brush up on concepts such as Real Estate Terminologies and Real Estate Math for free!
How Would You Know If The CE Course Is A Good One?
As mentioned, the commission and your state would have specific requirements. A good course ensures you’re able to meet those requirements — from topics to hours to accreditation.
Go for a school with a credible curriculum, has legitimate proof of their accreditation (or else your courses won’t be credited), and offers the sufficient hours needed in your state.
You don’t need to worry about the schools we’ve listed above since all of them are either state-approved or ADRE-approved.
But if you’re looking into another institution and you want to verify, their websites and reviews will usually give away their legitimacy. Conduct thorough research and read up on other related blogs to see if the school exists and if they’re offering good services.
You can also counter-check the facts on their website with other credible sources. For instance, with CE schools, double-check if they get your state requirements right.
In the end, it’s all a matter of research, research, research — like what you’re doing now!
Best Real Estate Continuing Education Summary of Winners [TL;DR]
For your easier reference, we’ll list down the best CE schools that we trust:
- Best Overall: McKissock Learning (~$147 unlimited package + membership)
- Best Value: The CE Shop (~$279.30 FULL value package)
- Best Budget: Mbition Real Estate (~$83.30 per 15 hours package only)
- Kaplan (~$15 to $56 per package)
- 360 Training (~$89 to $109)
We chose the winners based on the practicality of pricing and quality of learning, but we can assure you they are reviewed well.
For more information, we suggest giving the thorough reviews a read for a complete sense of the pros, cons, and overall thoughts.
Best Overall: McKissock Learning
When it comes to a more modern platform with updated modules, McKissock Learning wins this category.
But what made it the best overall winner is it offers competitive packaging pricing if you include the unlimited membership fee for all its benefits.
And yes, the approximate $147 rate already includes the courses, webinars, instructors, and other materials. The perfect balance!
Best Value: The CE Shop
Though The CE Shop has a more expensive price tag for its package on the get-go, you’ll quickly realize it has excellent value, especially in the long run.
It has excellent customer service, a wide variety of topics, and 60-hour courses — all of these in one provider are hard to find. For this reason, we think it’s the best value despite the high price at first.
Best Budget: Mbition Real Estate
In Mbition’s case, being hailed as the best budget doesn’t mean it has the least features. It has one of the most jampacked benefits.
We gave it the best budget title because of how generous they are with discounts and promo codes. The prices go down drastically during these seasons.
Plus, we appreciate how helpful they are in terms of licensing and exam preparations.
As we’ve mentioned above, many users vouched they passed the first time because of Mbition’s courses.
Conclusion
We know it’s a struggle to find quality schools online, but luckily for us, there are effective CE institutions that offer promising education.
We’re excited for you to continue your education as a realtor, and we truly hope this list will lead you to the excellent schools on your journey, and the process will be a lot smoother.
Good luck, and we hope you do well, realtor!
