Is RealEstateU Legitimate? Comprehensive Guide to Online Real Estate Education

Understanding the Legitimacy of RealEstateU

Choosing an online real estate school is a critical step toward a career in property sales, management, or brokerage. Prospective students often ask, “Is RealEstateU legit?” This article explores every aspect of RealEstateU’s credibility, its accreditation, real-world outcomes, and actionable steps to access its offerings. We also address common concerns and provide practical guidance for those considering enrollment.

Accreditation and State Approval

RealEstateU is a fully online real estate school that has received formal state approval in the jurisdictions where it operates, most notably New York. This means its curriculum meets the standards set by state licensing authorities, and completed courses can be used to fulfill pre-licensing education requirements. For example, in New York, RealEstateU’s programs are recognized by the state’s licensing board, ensuring that students who complete the required coursework are eligible to sit for the state licensing exam [1] . Similar approval exists in other states where RealEstateU operates, which currently number at least ten [4] .

Student Experiences and Reviews

Legitimacy is best confirmed by the experiences of real students. On platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) , RealEstateU receives a mix of positive and critical feedback. Many students praise the thoroughness and structure of the courses, the flexibility of online access, and the effectiveness of the exam preparation materials. One recent BBB review stated, “REU effectively prepared me for the Real Estate salesperson exam. It was thorough and well-directed, providing great assistance” [3] . Another user emphasized the value of studying at their own pace and the support received from the institution. These testimonials reflect real outcomes: students who completed the course and earned certificates of completion are now eligible for their official state and national exams.

However, some reviews mention that the courses can be intense and require a high level of self-motivation. If you prefer a more guided, in-person experience, you may need to supplement your studies with additional resources. RealEstateU’s program is not a quick DIY shortcut; commitment to self-study is essential for success [3] .

Industry Reputation and Competitive Analysis

Within the online real estate education sector, RealEstateU is considered a legitimate competitor to other established schools like Colibri Real Estate and The CE Shop. It has delivered education for over ten years, offering essential pre-licensing courses and continuing education for both salespersons and brokers. While it is known for affordability, some reviewers caution that low price alone should not be the sole reason for choosing a provider. It is recommended to compare course features, instructor support, and additional offerings before making a decision [4] .

Affordability and Flexible Access

RealEstateU is praised for its accessible pricing, making real estate education available to more aspiring agents. The courses are delivered entirely online, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere, on virtually any device. This flexibility appeals to individuals balancing work, family, and other commitments. Video lectures are direct and easy to absorb, and the platform provides interactive quizzes and assignments to reinforce learning [2] .

Course Offerings and Structure

The primary offering is pre-licensing education , which covers all topics mandated by state licensing bodies. RealEstateU also provides exam preparation materials and continuing education courses in select states. Completion of a pre-licensing course results in a certificate, which you can submit to your state’s licensing authority when applying for the real estate exam. Some states may require additional steps, so always check with your local real estate commission for current requirements.

Steps to Enroll in RealEstateU

Here is a detailed, actionable guide for enrolling:

Visit the RealEstateU official website (search “RealEstateU” in your preferred search engine to confirm the current site).
Choose your state from the available options to view state-specific course offerings and requirements.
Review all course details, including curriculum, pricing, and format.
Register for the appropriate pre-licensing or continuing education course by creating an account and making payment through the secure portal.
Begin your course at your own pace. Use the provided video lectures, quizzes, and support resources.
Upon completion, download or request your certificate of completion for submission to your state licensing authority.

If you encounter any issues or have questions about enrollment, you can contact RealEstateU’s customer support via the contact forms or support email found on their official website. For questions related to state licensing requirements, consult your state’s real estate commission or department of licensing directly.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

While RealEstateU is legitimate and state-approved in the areas it serves, some students have reported challenges, such as lack of live instruction, difficulty staying motivated, or administrative issues. For example, BBB complaint records note that a few students experienced customer service disputes or problems with course extensions [5] . To mitigate these issues, students should:

Read all course policies and refund terms before enrolling.
Set a regular study schedule to maintain motivation.
Reach out to support promptly if technical or administrative issues arise.
Supplement learning with official state guides or third-party resources as needed.

If you need to escalate a complaint, you can file directly with the BBB or your state’s consumer protection agency. Always keep records of your communications with RealEstateU for reference.

Alternative Approaches and Additional Resources

Should you wish to compare providers, search for accredited online real estate schools in your state using keywords like “state-approved real estate courses” and your state name. Consider contacting your state’s real estate commission for a list of approved education providers. Some may offer classroom-based or hybrid options if you prefer more direct interaction with instructors.

Key Takeaways

In summary, RealEstateU is a legitimate, state-approved provider of online real estate education. Its courses are recognized by licensing authorities, and it has helped many students prepare for and pass their licensing exams. While some challenges exist, most students report positive outcomes. Always verify state requirements and consider your preferred learning style before enrolling.