E-learning education, internet lessons online and business technology concept, Women use laptop working with education icon on virtual screens for online real estate learning and continuing education course for realtors or brokers living in North Carolina or who live in virginia or south carolina who want to hold an NC Real Estate License

8 Tips and Tricks to Prepare For Your Continuing Education Course

Preparing for a Continuing Education (CE) course in real estate, especially for maintaining an active license in North Carolina, requires a strategic approach. These tips and tricks can help ensure you get the most out of your CE courses and maintain compliance with state licensing requirements:

1. Understand State Requirements

  • Know the Specifics: Ensure you are aware of the North Carolina Real Estate Commission’s (NCREC) specific CE requirements, including the number of hours needed and the deadline for completion.
  • Stay Updated: Regulations can change, so regularly check the NCREC website or subscribe to their updates to stay informed.
  • Each broker is required to complete two CE courses per year. One of the courses MUST be the required Update class and the other is any elective of your choosing. Both types of classes are considered CE.

2. Choose the Right Courses

  • Relevance: Select courses that not only meet the requirements but also align with your career goals and areas of interest within real estate.
  • Accreditation: Ensure the course provider is approved by the NCREC to avoid spending time and money on a course that won’t count towards your CE credits.

3. Plan Your Schedule

  • Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to begin your CE courses. Starting early can help reduce stress and give you enough time to absorb the material.
  • Balance: If you’re working while taking courses, balance your schedule to avoid overload. Consider weekend or online courses that offer flexibility.

4. Engage with the Material

  • Active Participation: Engage actively with the course content. Participate in discussions, ask questions, and apply what you learn to real-world scenarios.
  • Study Materials: Make use of any additional study materials provided by the course. These can enhance your understanding and retention of the subject matter.

5. Leverage Technology

  • Online Learning: Many CE courses offer online options, providing flexibility to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. Here at Sea Coast Real Estate Academy, we have a plethora to choose from: View Courses
  • Digital Resources: Utilize digital tools and resources for studying, such as online flashcards, forums, and real estate apps, to supplement your learning.

6. Networking and Peer Learning

  • Connect with Peers: Use CE courses as an opportunity to network with other real estate professionals. Sharing experiences and knowledge among your team or brokerage can enhance learning.
  • Study Groups: Consider forming or joining a study group with fellow learners. This can provide additional support and motivation.

7. Maintain Records

  • Documentation: Keep detailed records of the CE courses you complete, including certificates of completion and transcripts. This is crucial for when you need to report your CE credits or if audited by the NCREC.

8. Reflect and Apply

  • Real-World Application: Try to apply what you learn in your daily real estate practice. This not only reinforces the knowledge but also enhances your professional skills.
  • Reflect on Learning: After completing a course, reflect on how the new knowledge impacts your work and how it can be used to improve your professional practice.

Continuing education is an investment in your professional development. By selecting relevant courses, planning your schedule wisely, actively engaging with the material, leveraging technology, and networking with peers, you can make the most of your CE courses and continue to thrive in the competitive real estate industry in North Carolina.