Best Real Estate Online Schools (2023): A Comprehensive Guide

Hello, I’m a blogger who loves to share my tips and experiences on real estate. Today I’m going to write about the best real estate online schools that you can enroll in to become a licensed real estate agent or broker in the U.S. Real estate online schools offer various courses for current and aspiring real estate professionals in different states. These schools offer convenient classes that can be taken from the comfort of your home or in some cases on your mobile device.

Real estate schools typically offer pre-licensing classes, post-licensing classes, and continuing education courses. The online real estate schools I reviewed offer courses in various formats and teaching styles with qualified and knowledgeable instructors. Most are accredited by the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO), the International Distance Education Certification Center (IDECC), or other recognized bodies. 

Why Opt for Online Real Estate Schools?

The traditional classroom setup is undoubtedly valuable, offering face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers. However, circumstances such as work schedules or geographical constraints may not permit some individuals to opt for in-person classes. Here, online real estate classes emerge as a viable alternative, providing flexibility without compromising on the quality of education. But one must be cautious while selecting an online real estate school - it should be accredited, affordable, and offer courses relevant to your state.

Accreditation: A Non-Negotiable Criterion

Accreditation is a crucial factor when selecting an online real estate school. The Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO) and the International Distance Education Certification Center (IDECC) are two prominent bodies that ascertain the standard of online real estate courses. Their accreditation ensures the school meets specific standards for content presentation, student assessments, and interaction methods.

Money-Back Guarantee: A Confidence Booster

Schools that offer a pass or money-back guarantee indicate faith in their curriculum. They believe their comprehensive training can ensure the students pass their exam. Should a student fail, the school typically offers a refund within a specific timeframe, subject to presenting the failed test score.

Price: High-Quality Education at an Affordable Rate

While some online real estate schools charge as little as $100, others can cost around $600 to $1,000. Accredited schools are often costlier than non-accredited ones. However, discounts and promotions can help find a course meeting your budget without compromising on quality.

State-Specific Courses: Catering to Unique Requirements

Every state has its unique real estate licensing requirements, which an online real estate school must cater to. Not all schools cover all 50 states, so students must choose an institution that offers courses valid in their state.

Variety of Courses: Catering to Different Learning Needs

Different stages of a real estate career require different types of courses. A comprehensive online real estate school should offer exam prep, prelicensing, and continuing education courses. Specialized courses should also be available for those aspiring to become real estate brokers.

Top Picks: The Best Real Estate Online Schools

To rank online real estate schools in our list, I developed a rating methodology that evaluated 14 different schools in five key areas: Reputation and Customer Satisfaction (8%), Customer Experience (24%), Courses Offered (13%), Costs and Fees (18%), Customer Support (40%). Here are my top picks for the best real estate online schools in 2023.

1. Colibri Real Estate: Best Overall and for Exam Prep

Colibri Real Estate, formerly known as Real Estate Express, is one of the most reliable and best overall online real estate schools. It offers courses for individuals from 38 states and Washington, D.C., for every stage of a real estate career. Classes are available online and on mobile devices, and the company’s offerings stay current with trends in the real estate industry. Instructors are real estate industry veterans who have been in the business for several years. Accredited by ARELLO and IDECC, Colibri Real Estate shines in its exam prep courses, which are designed to help students pass their state licensing exam on the first try. Courses include practice tests, study guides, flashcards, progress tracking, and live Q&A sessions with instructors. Students can also access a career hub that provides tips, tools, and resources for launching and growing their real estate career.

Colibri Real Estate offers four packages for pre-licensing courses: The Basics ($99-$599), Exam Preparation ($149-$699), Exam Preparation Plus ($199-$749), and Ultimate Learning ($329-$879). The prices vary depending on the state and the number of hours required. All packages include instructor support, downloadable course materials, progress exams, and a pass or don’t pay guarantee.

2. Kaplan: Best Interactive Courses

Kaplan is a well-known name in the education industry, and its online real estate school is no exception. Kaplan offers courses for individuals from 22 states for pre-licensing, exam prep, post-licensing, continuing education, broker licensing, and professional development. Classes are available online in various formats, such as live online classes, on-demand video courses, text-based courses, or home study packages. Kaplan also offers interactive study groups, webinars, podcasts, coaching sessions, and career nights for students who want to network and learn from other real estate professionals. Kaplan’s instructors are experienced and certified real estate experts who provide guidance and feedback throughout the course. Accredited by ARELLO and IDECC, Kaplan’s courses are comprehensive and up-to-date with the latest laws and regulations in each state.

Kaplan offers three packages for pre-licensing courses: Career Launcher ($179-$1,099), Live Online ($199-$1,199), and OnDemand ($249-$1,299). The prices vary depending on the state and the number of hours required. All packages include instructor support, course materials, practice exams, and a money-back guarantee.

3. The CE Shop: Best for Continuing Education

The CE Shop specializes in real estate education at all points in a professional’s career, starting with pre-licensing education and exam prep. As the name of the company suggests, its greatest strengths are in continuing education, as the company offers plenty of in-depth options for licensed real estate professionals looking to hone their skills. The CE Shop offers courses for individuals from all 50 states and Washington, D.C., for every stage of a real estate career. Classes are available online and on mobile devices, and the company’s offerings stay current with trends in the real estate industry. Instructors are real estate industry veterans who have been in the business for several years. Accredited by ARELLO, The CE Shop shines in its continuing education courses, which are nationwide, although specific classes may vary from state to state. Courses are available 24/7, and real estate agents who are licensed in multiple states can take advantage of multi-state packages. Students can also create custom packages to fit their needs. Continuing education courses start at $29, but the actual price you’ll pay varies by the state, the course, the type of license you currently hold, and whether you take an individual course or purchase a package.

4. RealEstateU: Best on a Budget

RealEstateU is an online real estate school that offers affordable and convenient courses for individuals who want to become real estate agents or brokers. RealEstateU offers courses for individuals from 11 states for pre-licensing, exam prep, post-licensing, and continuing education. Classes are available online in audio format, which allows students to listen to the course materials at their own pace and schedule. RealEstateU also provides PDF versions of the course materials, quizzes, final exams, and certificates of completion. RealEstateU’s instructors are licensed real estate professionals who have extensive knowledge and experience in the field. Accredited by ARELLO and IDECC, RealEstateU’s courses are simple and straightforward, covering the essential topics and concepts required by each state. RealEstateU offers one package for pre-licensing courses, which ranges from $99 to $395 depending on the state and the number of hours required. The package includes instructor support, course materials, quizzes, final exams, and certificates of completion.

5. Aceable: Best Value

Aceable is an online real estate school that offers high-quality and engaging courses for individuals who want to become real estate agents or brokers. Aceable offers courses for individuals from 12 states for pre-licensing, exam prep, post-licensing, and continuing education. Classes are available online and on mobile devices, and the company’s offerings feature interactive content, animations, videos, quizzes, and games. Aceable also offers live chat support, progress tracking, career resources, and a pass guarantee. Aceable’s instructors are licensed real estate professionals who have been in the business for several years. Accredited by ARELLO and IDECC, Aceable’s courses are comprehensive and up-to-date with the latest laws and regulations in each state. Aceable offers one package for pre-licensing courses, which ranges from $119 to $497 depending on the state and the number of hours required. The package includes instructor support, course materials, practice exams, and a pass guarantee.

Tips for choosing an online real estate school

Online real estate schools offer various benefits for individuals who want to pursue a career in real estate, such as convenience, flexibility, and affordability. However, not all online real estate schools are created equal. Here are some tips for choosing an online real estate school that suits your needs and goals:

Check the Accreditation and Reputation of the School

Make sure the school is accredited by a recognized body such as ARELLO or IDECC, and has positive reviews from past and current students. You can also check the school’s rating with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer protection agencies.

Compare the Courses and Packages Offered by Different Schools

Look at the curriculum, format, duration, and price of the courses and packages offered by different schools. Choose the one that covers the topics and concepts required by your state, matches your learning style and preferences, fits your schedule and budget, and provides enough support and guidance.

Look for Additional Features and Benefits that Enhance Your Learning Experience

Some online real estate schools offer extra features and benefits that can make your learning experience more enjoyable and effective. For example, some schools offer exam prep courses, live Q&A sessions, career resources, or money-back guarantees. Look for these features and benefits when choosing an online real estate school.

Conclusion

Online real estate schools offer various courses for current and aspiring real estate professionals in different states. These schools offer convenient classes that can be taken from the comfort of your home or in some cases on your mobile device. Real estate schools typically offer pre-licensing classes, post-licensing classes, and continuing education courses. The online real estate schools I reviewed offer courses in various formats and teaching styles with qualified and knowledgeable instructors. Most are accredited by ARELLO, IDECC, or other recognized bodies.

I hope this article has given you some ideas on which online real estate school to enroll in to become a licensed real estate agent or broker in the U.S. Of course, you don’t need to enroll in all of them. Just pick the one that suits your level, style, and goals. And remember, the best online real estate school is the one that you enroll in consistently and enjoyably. Happy learning!