How Military Spouses Can Start a Real Estate Career in Ohio

Military spouses face unique career hurdles due to the following challenges:

• Frequent Relocations: Constant moving makes it hard to establish a long-term career.
• State-Specific Licensing Rules: Many professions require new licenses in each state, adding time and expense for spouses arriving at a new location.
• Job Market Instability: Relocating means re-entering new job markets with unfamiliar employers and networking opportunities.

However, real estate offers a portable, flexible, and lucrative career solution for military spouses. Is your goal to get your Ohio real estate license as a military spouse? We’ll tell you why real estate is a great career for someone who moves often – and how to get your license in Ohio.

Key Takeaways

• Complete a 100-hour pre-licensing course from an Ohio-approved real estate school like Hondros College. Military spouses may qualify for a 20% discount on pre-licensing courses.
• Choose a sponsoring broker to activate your license. Some brokerages offer military-friendly programs to support veterans and spouses.
• Submit an application through the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, Ohio offers temporary licenses so you can work while completing state requirements.
• Pass the Ohio real estate exam with the help of exam prep materials. Some military spouses may qualify for exam reimbursement programs through military support organizations.
• Start working as a real estate agent by joining a brokerage and building your client base. If your spouse is relocated, Ohio’s license reciprocity agreements may allow for an easier transition to another state.

Why Real Estate is a Great Career for Military Spouses in Ohio

A career in real estate can be an excellent fit for military spouses. Why is real estate the right career for you?

• Flexibility: Real estate agents can work on their own schedule and have a better work/life balance.
• Portability: Some states have reciprocity agreements for real estate licenses, making it easier to transfer your career.
• Entrepreneurship: Real estate allows you to be your own boss and build a career that moves with you.
• Financial Potential: Your earnings depend on your effort, making financial growth possible.
• Community Engagement: Real estate agents with military connections can support other military families as they buy and sell homes while understanding their unique needs.

Whether your spouse is serving out of the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, the Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Vienna, or the Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center in Ravenna, joining the real estate profession may be the best way to achieve your dreams.

How Ohio Supports Military Spouses in Real Estate Licensing

Ohio has implemented initiatives to help military spouses get licensed:

• Temporary Licenses: Military spouses with an out-of-state real estate license may qualify for temporary permission to work while meeting Ohio’s requirements. Applicants must apply online at http://elicense.ohio.gov. You must be able to provide documents to prove active military duty in Ohio, that you are married to an active duty member, and that you hold a real estate license in another state.
• License Renewal: Military personnel and their spouses can renew an expired professional license without penalty or re-examination if the expiration was due to military service. This applies to those absent from Ohio due to active duty. However, it does not extend the license’s expiration date, so those needing an active license for their military role must renew before expiration. To qualify, applicants must provide documentation of honorable discharge or release from duty within six months of applying for renewal.
• License Reciprocity: Ohio law recognizes some out-of-state licenses, reducing extra coursework or exams.

For the most current licensing information, visit the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing.

Hondros College: Helping Military Spouses Become Real Estate Agents

Hondros College is a leading real estate school in Ohio, offering:

• State-Approved Pre-Licensing Courses – Hondros offers all the courses you need to get licensed, stay licensed, or earn a broker’s license.
• Flexible Learning Options – Choose between in-person, livestream, and self-paced courses.
• Expert Instructors – Learn from industry professionals with real-world experience.

How to Get Your Ohio Real Estate License as a Military Spouse

Wondering how to get your real estate license in Ohio? Follow this straightforward path to success.

Step 1: Complete your required 100-hour pre-licensing course

Enroll in an Ohio-approved real estate school like Hondros College. Financial assistance and scholarships are available.

Step 2: Choose a sponsoring broker

To activate your license, you must work under an Ohio-licensed broker.

Step 3: Submit your application

Apply through the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing.

Step 4: Pass the Ohio real estate exam

Prepare using exam prep materials from Hondros College.

Step 5: Start your career

Join a brokerage, build your client base, and start earning commissions.

Real Estate License Military Discount Program in Ohio

Many veterans transition into real estate due to their leadership, discipline, and goal-driven mindset. Hondros College offers a 20% discount for U.S. military veterans and their families on all real estate pre-licensing courses.

To claim this discount, call 1-888-HONDROS and show proof of military ID.

FAQs: How Does a Military Spouse Get a Real Estate License in Ohio?

Can I use my VA or GI Bill benefits at Hondros College?

No, Hondros College does not participate in the VA Education Benefits program. However, they offer a 20% discount for veterans on pre-licensing courses.

Does my military spouse qualify for the 20% discount with Hondros College?

Yes, spouses are eligible for the 20% discount on OH real estate pre-licensing courses.

How do I transfer my real estate license to Ohio?

Ohio offers temporary licenses for military spouses with an active real estate license from another state while they work toward their Ohio real estate license. You may not have to complete all the Ohio requirements if you are licensed in another state.

What costs are associated with becoming a real estate agent in Ohio?

Costs include course tuition, licensing fees, and exam fees—but military spouses may qualify for financial assistance.

Start Your Real Estate Career Today

Military spouses in Ohio can build a successful real estate career with the right education and support. Hondros College provides flexible courses and exclusive discounts for veterans to help military families transition into the real estate industry.

Thank you for your family’s service to our country! Hondros College looks forward to serving you as you achieve your real estate career dreams in Ohio.