Licensing
Each state has its own real estate license. Typically 75–150 hours of pre-licensing education, a state exam, and a background check. Cost: $300–$1,500.
Brokerage
Most agents work under a brokerage (KW, Compass, EXP, etc.). Commission splits are usually 70-30 or 80-20 in favor of the agent.
First clients
Black homebuyers and sellers in your network. Black church communities. HBCU alumni associations. EatOkra-listed Black-owned restaurant owners.
Mentor relationship
Year one is critical. Pair with a top-producing Black agent at your brokerage. Their referrals and shadowing will accelerate your learning more than any course.