Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Ontario: Straight Answers on Licensing, Pay and Brokerages (2026)

How do I become a real estate agent in Ontario?

Complete the pre-registration education delivered by Humber Polytechnic on behalf of RECO — a series of courses, simulations and exams — then find a brokerage to employ you and register with RECO as a salesperson within the required time after finishing. You must be 18 or older and have Grade 12 or equivalent.

Full guide: How to become an agent in OntarioTry it: Join RE/MAX Quantum

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

How long does it take to get a real estate licence in Ontario?

Most people finish the pre-registration program in several months to about a year, depending on how fast they study and book exams; some take longer while working. Registration with RECO then follows once a brokerage hires you.

Full guide: Becoming an agent: timeline

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

What is the difference between a salesperson and a broker licence in Ontario?

Everyone starts as a registered salesperson working under a brokerage. After at least two years of active experience and further education, a salesperson can register as a broker, and a broker can become a Broker of Record responsible for a whole brokerage.

Full guide: Broker vs salesperson vs Broker of Record

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

Do Ontario real estate agents need continuing education?

Yes. Registrants must complete RECO’s mandatory continuing education in each two-year registration cycle to renew, and new salespeople have additional post-registration courses to finish in their first two years.

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

How much do real estate agents make in Ontario?

There is no salary; agents earn commission on closed deals, so income varies enormously — many new agents earn little in their first year while a small number earn very well. What matters is how many deals you close, your share of the commission and your costs.

Full guide: How much agents make in OntarioTry it: Join RE/MAX Quantum

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

How do real estate commission splits work?

The commission a brokerage receives on a deal is split between the agent and the brokerage under the agent’s contract — as a percentage split, a capped split, or a fixed monthly or per-deal fee. Compare the whole package: split, fees, desk costs, leads and support.

Full guide: Commission splits explainedTry it: Join RE/MAX Quantum

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

What costs do new real estate agents have in Ontario?

The licensing program and exams, RECO registration and mandatory errors-and-omissions insurance, board and MLS fees, brokerage fees, plus marketing, a car and a phone. Budget for several months of costs before your first closed deal.

Full guide: Is real estate a good career?

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

Is real estate a good career in Ontario in 2026?

It can be, for people who can prospect consistently and survive months without income; it is a poor fit for anyone who needs a steady paycheque from day one. A slower 2026 market rewards agents with a lead source and good training.

Full guide: Is real estate a good career?Try it: Book a 15-minute call

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

What is the best brokerage to join in Toronto?

The one whose model fits your stage: new agents usually need training, mentorship and a source of leads more than the highest split, while established agents with their own business often prefer a high split or flat fee. Ask any brokerage for its split, all fees and what support and leads are actually provided.

Full guide: Best brokerage to join in TorontoTry it: Join RE/MAX Quantum

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

Do brokerages give new agents leads?

Some do, usually in exchange for a referral fee or a different split on those deals. RE/MAX Quantum Realty runs a lead-provision model with partnership-style splits for agents who want leads and coaching.

Try it: Join RE/MAX Quantum

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record

Can I switch brokerages as a real estate agent in Ontario?

Yes. Your registration moves with you to the new brokerage through RECO, but listings and buyer agreements belong to the brokerage, so check your contract for how existing clients and pending deals are handled before you move.

Full guide: Choosing a brokerage

Last reviewed October 2026 · Jatin Dua, Broker of Record