Omaha, Nebraska     Contributed by David Matney with Alliance Real Estate

When someone applies for a real estate license there are two types of licenses available, Salesperson and a Brokers License.  The qualifications are different.  In order to obtain a salesperson's license you must be at least 19 years of age, have a high school diploma and have 60 clock hours of in courses approved courses with the Nebraska Real Estate Commission.  In addition, the state of Nebraska requires a background check conducted by the State Patrol and you must pass the licensing exam. 

The Broker's license has the same above requirements except it requires more experience.  You must have 180 clock hours of instruction or have at least 2 years of experience as a salesperson. 

Once you have obtained the required course work you must submit your application along with your course completion certificates to the Nebraska Real Estate Commission.  If your application is appoved then you can sit for the licensing exam.  The licensing exam is challenging and it tests your applied knowledge over the subject matter. 

I currently hold a Brokers License and personally I thought the Broker's exam was easier than the salesperson's exam.  Many folks have difficulty passing the salesperson's exam the first time exam and the test score you receive is not indication of your possible success in real estate.  Your real training begins once you you decide on a company.

From a consumer standpoint, there are plenty of very competent salespersons as well as (associate) brokers.  At any firm there is only one Broker.  All of the other licensees that hold a Broker's license are called Associate Brokers.  Just because an agent holds a broker's license does not mean they would be a better at selling or helping you buy a home. 

David Matney, CRS,GRI

Alliance Real Estate