Most people refer to someone that sells real estate as a real estate broker, but technically that's not correct. In Kentucky there are two different and distinct types of real estate licenses. When someone first starts out in the real estate business, they are referred to as a "sales associate" or "licensee" and they place their license with a "broker." Think of the "broker" as the person in charge of each real estate office.

How does one move from being a sales associate to broker? The first step is to qualify to take the broker exam. In most situations a sales associate needs to be licensed or in the real estate business for at least 2 years to meet the time requirement. They also have to take additional approved hours of education before they are allowed to take the broker exam. This broker exam is similar to the sales associate exam everyone takes when they first get a real estate license, but it's more complex and covers more topics that someone running an office might face.

Here are the basic steps for a Kentucky license/sales associate to become a broker. (Click here for exact requirements on KREC website)

1) Become a licensed sales associate by attending real estate school & passing exam
2) Get two years experience in the real estate business under the direction/supervision of a licensed real estate broker
3) During this time, take additional courses to fulfill the broker education requirements (Total of 336 hours)
4) During this time, take a 48 Hour Broker Management Skills Course (Required as part of your 336 hours)
5) Take and pass the broker exam