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Did you know Canada’s real estate market is expected to reach US$263.7 billion in revenue by 2030? With an annual growth rate of 5.3% from 2025 to 2030, it’s no surprise that more people are drawn to this industry. Sounds like a great opportunity, right?
Here’s a truth: Many new agents leave the industry within their first year.
Why does this happen? Most people choose a career without knowing the real costs, the time it takes, or how tough the competition is. Yet, like a coin, real estate has two sides which bring both challenges and opportunities..
The first year can be demanding, but with the right guidance, support, and preparation, it can also be the start of a rewarding and financially secure career in British Columbia.
That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide—to help you start strong and stay ahead.
Is it Worth Becoming a Realtor in BC? Pros, Cons, and Earnings
Real estate in BC can be rewarding, but it’s not a guaranteed path to quick wealth. Here’s what the numbers say
Location | Median Salary (Approx.) | Top 10% Earnings | Avg. Deals/Year | Notes |
Vancouver | ~$80K base pay with a range of $54K–$118K. | $250K+ | 8–12 | Most agents earn between $54K and $118K, but top earners can reach $ 250 K or more. $95K+ already puts you in the top 10% here.. |
Victoria | $180K | 6–10 | A strong and competitive median. Estimates place the 75th percentile at around $ 105,000, with some sources indicating median incomes exceeding this amount. Reflects a thriving townhouse‑driven market. | |
Kelowna | ~$95,000 | $160K | 7–11 | The median salary varies by source, ranging from $ 93,000 (Indeed) to $ 98,000 (ZipRecruiter). Glassdoor reports a typical range of $ 71,000–$ 126,000. Remote work demand has boosted transactions. |
Province-Wide (BC) | ~$105,000 | $200K | 5–9 | The median varies widely; reports indicate $ 54,000, while others report $ 107,000 or more. The approximately $ 105,000 figure aligns with averages from multiple sources. Top earners make significantly more. |
Pros:
Flexible Income potential: Real estate offers unlimited earning potential through commission-based compensation. Successful agents can earn more as they expand their client base and establish a strong reputation.
Market Diversity: BC's real estate market covers a wide range of properties, from urban condos in Vancouver to rural properties in the Okanagan, which offers agents diverse opportunities to specialize and build expertise.
Professional Growth: The real estate industry offers learning opportunities which range from advanced certifications to specialized market knowledge that increase your value to clients.
Cons:
Time Investment Required: Real estate is not a 9-to-5 job. Evening, weekend, and holiday availability is often expected when clients need to view properties or close deals.
High Initial Costs: Obtaining a license requires a significant upfront investment. Additionally, expenses include marketing, office setup, and a personal financial buffer.
Irregular Income: Income is highly variable and commission-dependent. It may take months to close your first deal, and income fluctuates with market conditions and personal sales cycles.
Agent vs. REALTOR in BC: Key Differences
Aspect | Real Estate Agent | REALTOR® |
Licensing | They are licensed by the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) only | Licensed by BCFSA and must join a local real estate board, which makes them a member of the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). |
MLS® Access | No access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which limits property exposure. | Complete MLS access, allowing them to list homes widely and search the whole database of properties. |
Ethics Code | Must follow BCFSA’s rules and regulations. | Must follow BCFSA rules plus the CREA Code of Ethics, which sets a higher standard of professionalism and client care. |
Title Use | Can call themselves a “real estate agent” but cannot use the REALTOR® title. | Can legally use the REALTOR® trademark, which signals MLS® access and CREA membership. |
In short, all REALTORS® are licensed agents, but not all agents are REALTORS®. In BC, most professionals choose REALTOR® status because MLS® access and the credibility of the REALTOR® brand are essential for success.
Step-by-Step Licensing Pathway in BC
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
You should be at least 19 years old
Legally entitled to work in Canada
Pass a criminal record check
Meet English Language Proficiency Requirement (ELPR)
Step 2: Enrol in UBC Sauder Real Estate
Only provider: UBC Sauder School of Business
Online, self-paced (8–14 weeks)
Cost: ~$1,450 (includes first exam attempt)
Step 3: Pass the Licensing Exam
Passing score: 70%
Calculator required (HP 10BII+)
Pass rate: ~65% first-time
Step 4: Complete Applied Practice Course (APC)
Administered by BCFSA
4 components (online + field-based)
Must be completed within 4.5 months
Step 5: Choose a Brokerage & Submit License Application
Must affiliate with a BCFSA-licensed brokerage
Apply via the BCFSA portal
Step 6: Activate Temporary License
Issued within 2–4 weeks
Allows you to start working while finishing the APC
How Long Does It Take to Get Licensed in BC?
Fast‑track (4–6 months): Best for those who can study full‑time and move quickly through each step. It’s an intensive pace, but it gets you licensed in under half a year.
Standard (6–9 months): The most common pathway, balancing coursework with work or family commitments. It offers steady progress without being overwhelming.
Leisurely (8–12 months): Ideal for people working full‑time or spreading out costs. It’s a slower pace, but it still allows you to get licensed within a year.
Ongoing Requirements: Keeping Your License Active
Renew every 2 years.
Complete 18 PDP credits.
Mandatory: Legal Update + Ethics Update.
Maintain board membership.
Full Cost Breakdown: How Much Does It Cost to Become a Realtor in BC
Step | Cost (CAD) | Notes |
English Language Proficiency (ELPR, e.g., CELPIP) | $290 | May be waived for degrees from English-instruction institutions |
UBC Course (Trading Services) | Mandatory licensing education | |
Licensing Exam | $200 | First attempt included; retake is extra |
Criminal Record Check | Required, via Triton or police | |
BCFSA First-Time Licensing Fee | Includes Errors & Omissions (E&O), Compensation Fund | |
Applied Practice Course (APC) | $875 | Residential or Commercial route |
Board Initiation + Association Dues | $1,500–$3,500 | e.g., REBGV: $1,575–$2,670, includes CREA, BCREA, local board; varies by region |
Startup (Desk, CRM, Marketing) | $500–$1,500 | Varies by brokerage and tech stack (CRM, desk, signs, website, business cards, etc.) |
Real Talk: What BC Agents Want You to Know
Conclusion
Getting your real estate license in BC takes commitment, planning, and investment. The process isn’t easy, but with the proper preparation and support, it can lead to a rewarding career. Whether you move quickly or take your time, the key is to stay focused, build strong foundations, and treat your first year as the start of long‑term growth.
Ready to take the next step in your real estate career? Enroll today!
FAQs
Q: Is it worth it to become a REALTOR® in BC?
Yes, if you’re motivated and ready to put in the work. The earning potential is strong, but success takes time and effort.
Q: How hard is it to get a real estate license in BC?
The coursework and exam require focus, but they’re manageable with consistent study.
Q: How long does it take to obtain a license?
Anywhere from 4 to 12 months, depending on your pace.
Q: What’s the most challenging part?
The first year — building clients and a steady income. With persistence and support, it gets easier.
