What is a Broker? Understanding the Role of a Real Estate Broker

At RELNY, we provide the education, tools, and support needed to help you become a successful real estate professional in New York

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  • 77 Hour NYS Real Estate Salesperson Licensing Course

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  • Subtitles/Transcripts for all languages offered by NYS DOS

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What is a Broker? Understanding the Role of a Real Estate Broker

If you’re exploring a career in real estate, you may have come across the term broker and wondered, What is a broker? A broker is more than just a real estate agent—they are licensed professionals who have completed additional education and passed a higher-level exam, giving them the authority to manage their own real estate firm, oversee agents, and handle complex transactions. At RELNY, we provide the education, tools, and support needed to help you become not just an agent, but a successful real estate professional in New York.

What is a Broker?

A broker is a licensed real estate professional with advanced training and qualifications beyond that of a standard real estate agent. Brokers can:

  • Manage their own real estate firm
  • Supervise and mentor other agents
  • Negotiate and oversee complex transactions
  • Handle trust accounts and client funds

In New York, becoming a broker requires completing additional coursework, gaining experience as a real estate salesperson, and passing the state’s broker licensing exam.

How Does a Broker Differ from a Real Estate Agent?

While both agents and brokers facilitate real estate transactions, there are key differences:

  • Real Estate Agents work under the supervision of a licensed broker and are limited in the scope of transactions they can manage.
  • Brokers have more autonomy, can open their own brokerage, and have legal authority to oversee other agents.

If you’re wondering, What is a broker’s advantage? It’s the increased earning potential, flexibility, and leadership opportunities that come with advanced licensing.

Why Become a Broker? The Benefits of Upgrading Your License

Becoming a broker offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Higher Earning Potential

    Brokers typically earn higher commissions and can take a share of the profits from agents they supervise.

  • Leadership Opportunities

    As a broker, you can manage your own team and grow your own business.

  • Greater Flexibility

    Brokers have more control over their schedules and business practices.

  • Advanced Knowledge

    The additional education required to become a broker provides deeper insights into complex real estate transactions.

How RELNY Helps You Become a Successful Real Estate Professional

At RELNY, we don’t just help you get your license—we prepare you to thrive as a real estate professional. Whether you’re starting as an agent or looking to advance your career, RELNY provides comprehensive education and support at every stage.

  • Fully Accredited Courses

    RELNY’s courses are fully approved by the New York State Department of State (NYS DOS) and accredited by the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO®). This ensures that your education meets all state requirements, giving you peace of mind as you pursue your license.

  • Multilingual Support

    To support New York’s diverse real estate community, RELNY offers course video subtitles and full transcripts in all five languages supported by the NYS Real Estate Salesperson Licensing Exam:

    • English
    • Spanish
    • Chinese
    • Russian
    • Korean
  • Learn from New York’s #1 Real Estate Instructor

    RELNY’s courses are led by Kristen Bacorn, recognized as New York’s #1 Real Estate Instructor. Kristen’s engaging and practical teaching style ensures you not only pass your exams but excel in your real estate career.

  • Affordable and Flexible Learning

    RELNY offers one of the most affordable pre-licensing courses in New York without compromising on quality. Our flexible online platform allows you to learn at your own pace, whether you’re balancing a full-time job, family obligations, or other commitments.

  • Job Placement Solutions

    RELNY’s commitment to your success doesn’t stop at education. Our Job Placement Solutions connect you with top real estate brokers in New York, providing valuable networking opportunities and career support as you launch or advance your career.

    Learn more about how our job placement services can help by visiting our Job Placement Solutions page.

Steps to Becoming a Real Estate Broker in New York

  • Complete Pre-Licensing Education

    Start by completing the required 77-hour pre-licensing course for real estate salespersons. RELNY’s comprehensive course prepares you to pass the NYS licensing exam and lays the foundation for your career.

  • Gain Experience as a Real Estate Agent

    To qualify for a broker’s license, you need to accumulate a set amount of experience as a licensed real estate salesperson. RELNY’s courses and Job Placement Solutions will help you get started in a role where you can gain the necessary experience.

  • Complete Additional Broker Education

    Once you have the required experience, you’ll need to complete additional broker-specific coursework from an approved provider to meet the state requirements for the broker licensing exam.

  • Pass the NYS Broker Licensing Exam

    With the right preparation and experience, you’ll be well-equipped to pass the broker licensing exam on your first attempt.

  • Start Your Own Brokerage or Manage a Team

    With your broker’s license in hand, you can open your own real estate brokerage, manage a team of agents, or take on more complex transactions to grow your business.

The Road to Becoming a Broker Starts with RELNY

If you’re ready to begin your journey in the real estate industry, RELNY is here to support you from the very first step. Our comprehensive pre-licensing education, expert instruction, and job placement assistance provide everything you need to launch a successful career.

Enroll today and take the first step toward becoming a licensed real estate professional.

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Complete List of RELNY Real Estate Accreditations

RELNY is proud to be fully accredited by both the New York State Department of State (NYS DOS) and the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO®). This accreditation is more than just a formal recognition; it serves as a testament to the high standards of education and training we provide in the real estate sector.

RELNY's Unparalleled Learning Advantage

Kristen Bacorn's Online Real Estate Courses are Produced Exclusively for RELNY. As New York’s #1 Real Estate Instructor, Kristen’s engaging teaching style and comprehensive curriculum make RELNY the ideal choice for anyone looking to excel in real estate.

Unlock Success with RELNY: Purpose-Built Course Software

In the fast-paced world of real estate education, having the right tools can make all the difference between merely passing an exam and truly excelling in your career. RELNY’s purpose-built course software offers a suite of features designed to elevate the learning experience, making it easier, more engaging, and highly effective for students.

Meet RELNY's Kristen Bacorn, New York's #1 Real Estate Instructor

• NYS Department of State & ARELLO® Certified
• Masters, Harvard University
• Commercial & Residential Real Estate Broker
• Educator at RELNY, SUNY, CUNY, NAR, AIA
• Addressed the United Nations 2X
• Interviewed by Wall St. Journal & New York Times

RELNY FAQs

At RELNY, we understand that embarking on a career in real estate is a significant step, and choosing the right educational path is crucial. As the premier New York real estate school, we are dedicated to providing our students with the highest quality education and support. This FAQ page is designed to address some of the most common questions prospective and current students have about our courses and exam prep.

RELNY Job Placement Solutions: Your Bridge to Success

At RELNY, we are committed to more than just providing a top-tier real estate education—we're dedicated to ensuring our students thrive in their careers post-graduation. Our comprehensive Job Placement Solutions & Services are designed to support you every step of the way as you transition from being a student to a successful real estate professional.

Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent with RELNY Instructor Kristen Bacorn

Learn how to become a New York real estate agent from Kristen Bacorn - the #1 Real Estate Instructor in New York. Our accredited New York real estate licensing course can be completed in 1 week and can be taken online from the comfort of your home, or from your mobile phone.