Becoming a real estate agent in Ontario follows a single regulated path: complete the Humber College Real Estate Salesperson Program, register with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), and join a licensed brokerage. The full process runs 9–18 months for most students and costs roughly $7,500–$10,000 in tuition, fees, and registration. Here is the current pathway as of 2026.
In this guide, we cross-reference How Many Realtors in Canada, and Ontario Realtor Fees — click through whenever you want to go deeper on a related concept.
Step 1 — Humber College Pre-Registration Phase
RECO has designated Humber College as the exclusive education provider for Ontario real estate. The Salesperson Program begins with the Pre-Registration Phase, which has eliminating exams and a culminating simulation session.
- Course 1: Real Estate as a Professional Career
- Course 2: Land, Structures and Real Estate Trading
- Course 3: The Real Estate Transaction — General
- Course 4: The Residential Real Estate Transaction
- Course 5: Additional Residential Real Estate Transactions
- Two simulation sessions
Step 2 — Apply to RECO
Once you have completed Pre-Registration, you apply to RECO for registration as a Salesperson. You will provide a criminal record check, proof of legal status to work in Canada, and your Humber transcript.
Step 3 — Find a Brokerage
You cannot trade in real estate independently in Ontario — you must be employed by a registered brokerage. Most new Salespersons interview at multiple brokerages before signing.
Step 4 — Complete the Post-Registration Phase Within 24 Months
Within 24 months of registration you must finish three Post-Registration courses. Failing to complete them means losing your registration.
Step 5 — Mandatory Continuing Education (MCE)
Every two years you complete RECO's Mandatory Continuing Education modules to keep your registration active.
Costs
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Humber Pre-Registration Phase | $4,200 – $5,500 |
| RECO Registration & Insurance | $1,200 – $1,400 |
| Brokerage desk fees / monthly dues (year 1) | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Real estate board dues (TRREB, etc.) | $700 – $900 / year |
Becoming a Broker (Optional)
After two years as a Salesperson you can take the Broker Qualifying Course. Brokers carry additional responsibility under TRESA and can ultimately operate or own a brokerage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Ontario?+
Most students complete the Humber Pre-Registration Phase in 9–18 months while working full time. After RECO registration, you have 24 months to complete the Post-Registration Phase.
How much does it cost to become a Realtor in Ontario?+
Budget $7,500–$10,000 in your first year for tuition, RECO registration, brokerage fees, and TRREB or local board dues. Costs continue at $2,000–$4,000 per year afterward.
Do I need to go to Humber College?+
Yes. RECO has designated Humber College as the sole real estate education provider in Ontario. There is no alternative.
Can I work part-time as an Ontario realtor?+
Legally yes, though most successful agents are full-time. Part-time can be difficult given showings, offer registrations, and after-hours client demands.
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