Top 5 online real estate schools in California
Choosing one of the best online real estate schools in California is crucial for your career, and it’s important to thoroughly research your options and understand what each course offers. While there are countless real estate schools available, only a select few stand out for their exceptional education and comprehensive support in preparing you to obtain your real estate license.
At Smart Agent Alliance, we are committed to guiding new agents in launching successful careers. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the leading online real estate schools in California. Our detailed analysis covers the offerings of each school, their course delivery methods, and a balanced view of the advantages and disadvantages of studying with each one.
Our Top 5 Online Real Estate Schools in California
AceableAgent
SmartAgentAlliance Score: A+
Top Feature: Ability to study on the go with the mobile app
Why We Chose It:
AceableAgent has quickly become a favorite among students due to its modern approach and flexibility. It is exclusively focused on real estate education, offering courses for every step of a real estate career, from pre-licensing to continuing education and career advancement. The courses are state-approved and designed to be accessible from any device, providing students with the flexibility to study anywhere.
Overview:
AceableAgent offers three pre-licensing packages, all of which include the required coursework. The courses are fully online and accessible via desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. This accessibility is one of AceableAgent’s standout features, allowing students to study on the go. Courses are developed by experienced professionals and are accredited by ARELLO. Additionally, AceableAgent is known for its interactive coursework, which helps students grasp and retain information effectively.
Why AceableAgent is Great for Pre-Licensing:
AceableAgent’s pre-licensing courses are available in multiple states, ensuring they meet state-specific requirements. The courses include engaging video lectures, interactive content, and practice exams to help students prepare effectively for their licensing exams. AceableAgent offers a satisfaction guarantee and provides career resources to help new agents start their careers successfully.
User Experiences and Feedback:
Students have reported that AceableAgent’s courses are particularly user-friendly, with a modern interface that makes navigation easy. The mobile app is highly rated for its convenience, allowing users to study during commutes or breaks. The interactive content, including quizzes and video explanations, has been praised for making complex topics easier to understand. Additionally, AceableAgent’s customer service, though sometimes slow, is generally helpful and responsive to student needs.
California Pricing
Pre-Licensing
Price Starts at: $199
Basic Package Features: 24/7 email support from course experts; self-paced online learning on all devices with synced progress; 900 unique exam practice questions; mini-course on finding the right sponsoring broker.
Upgrade Packages: Yes, the upgraded packages include features like a 24/7 virtual instructor, 3 months of PrepAgent state exam prep, private tutoring, weekly webinars, and access to extensive study materials.
Exam Prep
Price Starts at: $59
Basic Package Features: Thousands of practice questions; 100% money-back guarantee; 75+ real estate exam prep videos; online interactive flashcards; 100+ page exam prep ebook; hours of audio lessons; interactive vocabulary worksheet; 100s of hours of recorded webinars; live online webinars.
Upgrade Packages: Yes, the upgraded packages offer access to PrepAgent for 1 or 2 months, compared to just 1 week with the basic plan.
Features
Flexible Learning Options: Enjoy self-paced courses that fit your schedule.
Extended Course Access: Access course materials for up to six months from your enrollment date.
Risk-Free Enrollment: Benefit from a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.
Exam Success Guarantee: Pass the licensing exam within three tries or receive a full course refund.
Comprehensive Exam Preparation: Gain access to a variety of study tools including prep videos, 75 audio lessons, digital flashcards, over 1600 practice questions, a 100-page exam prep ebook, weekly live webinars, live Q&A sessions with instructors, and the option for personalized 1-on-1 tutoring.
Dedicated Support: Instructor assistance is available seven days a week via email, and customer service can be reached by email and phone from Monday to Friday.
Convenient Final Exams: Utilize online proctoring services for the final exam across the nation, although California students do not need a proctor for their pre-licensing exam.
Mobile-Friendly Platform: Study anytime, anywhere with a course platform that is fully optimized for mobile devices.
Interactive Learning Tools: Engage with interactive content designed to enhance your learning experience and retention.
Career Resources: Access additional career support services to help you transition from student to professional agent successfully.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- ✔
Mobile app for studying - ✔
High pass rates among schools with 1,000+ students - ✔
Engaging and entertaining course materials - ✔
Exam prep through PrepAgent
Cons:
- ✖
Course access lasts for 12 months - ✖
Some bugs reported in the mobile app - ✖
Limited technical support - ✖
Outsourced exam proctoring
To view their current pricing for pre-licensing click this linked button. If you are interested in any of the other courses they offer, you can find that through this link as well.
The CE Shop
SmartAgentAlliance Score: A
Top Feature: Course is easy to follow, high pass rates among students
Why We Chose It: The CE Shop offers a variety of real estate education options with an interactive and inquiry-based approach in their studying methods. While their focus is mainly on continuing education, they also provide excellent pre-licensing courses, exam prep, and post-licensing education. Their courses are accredited by ARELLO and have received numerous awards for their educational programs.
Overview: The CE Shop’s pre-licensing courses can be taken in 34 states, through four different course packages: Courses Only, Standard Package, Value Package, and Premium Package. Every package comes with business ebooks, career resources, downloadable resources, real estate glossary, digital flashcards, study schedules, and access to instructor-led webinars. Students have praised the course content for being easy to follow and highly informative, which has led to high pass rates.
Why The CE Shop is Great for Pre-Licensing: The CE Shop’s pre-licensing courses emphasize real-world applications with scenario-based learning. This approach helps students apply their knowledge to practical situations they will face in their real estate careers. Additionally, The CE Shop provides an exam prep edge program that offers additional practice tests and study aids to ensure students are well-prepared for their licensing exams.
User Experiences and Feedback: The CE Shop is well-regarded for its robust customer support and comprehensive resources. The ability to access instructor-led webinars provides an additional layer of support and interaction, which can be particularly beneficial for students who need more guidance. The frequent promotions and discounts make it a cost-effective option for many. Students appreciate the clear and structured study schedules, which help them stay on track and complete the course efficiently.
California Pricing
Pre-Licensing
Price Starts at: $111.20
Basic Package Features: Expert-written business eBooks, career resources, downloadable materials, digital flashcards, a real estate glossary, a study schedule, and 135 hours of CA pre-licensing preparation.
Upgrade Packages: The Premium Package includes everything in the Basic Package, plus exam prep ($135 value), a pass guarantee, Kickstarter professional development ($99 value), the Real Estate Basics and Beyond eTextbook ($35 value), and a 45-hour first renewal package ($79 value).
Exam Prep
Price Starts at: $101.25
Basic Package Features: Offers content based on the California DRE Instructions to License Applicants, ensuring comprehensive coverage of every exam topic. It features individual lessons for efficient studying, real-time dashboards to gauge exam readiness, and 7-day support via call, chat, or email.
Upgrade Packages: None
Post-Licensing
Price Starts at: $79
Basic Package Features: This 45-hour CE package includes 17 mandatory hours (ethics, agency, fair housing, trust fund handling, risk management, implicit bias), 19 consumer protection hours (real estate finance, commercial real estate, environmental awareness, sexual harassment and discrimination, assistance animals and fair housing), and 9 consumer service hours (marketing, business planning, investor strategies).
Upgrade Packages: Yes, this package includes the ProPath Real Estate Business Builder program, covering essential pricing strategies, tax planning for the self-employed, and budgeting to build your business for real estate success.
Continuing Education
Price Starts at: $79
Basic Package Features: Same as Post-Licensing package
Upgrade Packages: Same as Post-Licensing package
Features
Learning Format: Flexible, self-paced online courses.
Access Duration: Six months from the start date.
Money-Back Guarantee: Full refund within 30 days if less than 50% of the course is completed.
Pass Assurance: Exam cost reimbursed if you don’t pass on the first attempt.
Exam Preparation: Targeted review sessions, custom study plans, unlimited practice tests, and live webinars.
Support Services: Available daily via email, phone, or chat.
Final Exam Procedure: Online proctoring available nationwide; California exams are administered by the DRE at specific centers.
Extra Resources: Includes digital flashcards, a real estate glossary, a study schedule, business courses, and state-specific content.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- ✔
Multiple study package options and monthly payment plans - ✔
High pass rates among students - ✔
Interactive and easy-to-follow course material - ✔
Frequent discounts and promotions
Cons:
- ✖
Mainly text-based study materials - ✖
Some students find the materials take longer to complete than expected - ✖
Limited coverage of real estate math
To view their current pricing for pre-licensing, first click this linked button, then under the main heading select “Real Estate” then fill in your State, Education, and License type (Your State, Pre-Licencing, Sales-Licencing)
Allied Real Estate Schools by Colibri
SmartAgentAlliance Score: A
Top Feature: Affordable and comprehensive study materials
Why We Chose It: Allied Real Estate Schools is known for its affordability and thorough course materials. It provides excellent support to students preparing for their exams and offers a range of courses that cater to different learning needs. Allied’s courses are designed to be clear and easy to understand, making them a great choice for budget-conscious students.
Overview: Allied Real Estate Schools offers various online courses with comprehensive study materials. The courses are designed to prepare students effectively for their licensing exams, with detailed support and resources. The pricing is competitive, making it an accessible option for many students.
Why Allied Real Estate Schools is Great for Pre-Licensing: Allied Real Estate Schools’ pre-licensing courses include interactive study tools such as flashcards, practice tests, and exam simulators. The courses are state-approved and designed to meet all the requirements for licensure. Allied also offers a “pass or don’t pay” guarantee, ensuring students can retake the course if they don’t pass the exam on the first try. They also provide a career starter guide to help new agents transition smoothly into their real estate careers.
User Experiences and Feedback: Allied Real Estate Schools has a strong reputation for providing value for money. The comprehensive study materials are frequently updated to reflect the latest industry standards and practices. Students have noted that the detailed exam preparation support, including practice exams and study guides, is particularly helpful for passing the state licensing exams. The school’s customer support, though sometimes slow, is knowledgeable and helpful in resolving issues.
California Pricing
Pre-Licensing
Price Starts at: $139.30
Basic Package Features: Offers all required pre-license courses with flexible online learning. Course materials include downloadable e-books and narrated audio with adjustable speeds. Career support is provided through Buffini & Company career coaching videos.
Upgrade Packages: Yes, The Career Essentials and The Career Ultimate packages include additions like: CompuCram Exam Prep with simulated exams, flashcards, a readiness assessment, supplemental exam prep, instructor-led webinars, audio review guides, the CA Insider’s Exam Guide, a Career Builder, and a one-year professional growth membership.
Exam Prep
Price Starts at: $101.50
Basic Package Features: Includes Exam Cram webinars, audio topic reviews, vocabulary study tools, practice tests, simulated exams, and a Readiness Indicator™ to track progress and confirm exam readiness.
Upgrade Packages: None
Live Courses
Price Starts at: $349.30
Basic Package Features: Includes 135 hours of instructor-led virtual learning, flexible online courses, downloadable e-books, practice exams, the CA Insider’s Exam Guide, printed textbooks, and Buffini & Company career coaching videos. It also offers a one-year professional growth membership, CompuCram Exam Prep, simulated exams, flashcards, a readiness assessment, and audio review guides.
Upgrade Packages: None
Continuing Education
Price Starts at: $67
Basic Package Features: 45 hours of DRE-approved education in accordance with the newly passed legislation. This package has everything you need to meet these new requirements.
Upgrade Packages:
None
Features
Learning Options: Choose between self-paced online courses or live-streamed classes with real-time instructors for a classroom-like experience from home.
Course Access: Six months of access from the enrollment date.
Refund Policy: Full refund for self-paced courses if canceled within 30 days, and within 24 hours for live-stream courses.
Pass Guarantee: For packages with exam prep, Colibri will refund the course cost if you score 80% or higher on simulated exams but don’t pass the state exam on the first try.
Exam Preparation: Includes digital flashcards, mock exams, readiness assessments, audio review guides, live Q&A sessions, and six one-hour live webinars with instructors for focused preparation.
Instructor Support: Available by phone during business hours or via email for additional assistance.
Final Exam Process: Virtual proctoring available nationwide; in California, the DRE administers the exam at designated centers.
Additional Resources: Access to state-specific pre-licensing, continuing education, broker licensing, and mortgage licensing courses, as well as practice exams and a real estate dictionary.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- ✔
Affordable courses - ✔
Comprehensive study materials - ✔
Detailed exam preparation support
Cons:
- ✖
Limited interactivity in course materials - ✖
Some students found customer support to be slow
To view their current pricing for pre-licensing, first click this linked button, then click either “View Online Packages” or “View Livestream Packages” depending on what your looking for. (This link is to their Pre-Licensing courses, however they have other course types as well)
RealEstateU
SmartAgentAlliance Score: A-
Top Feature: Best affordable courses available
Why We Chose It: RealEstateU is known for its affordability and straightforward approach to real estate education. The audio-based courses are perfect for students who prefer to study on the go. The courses are designed to be simple yet effective, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious students.
Overview: RealEstateU offers audio lectures that can be accessed on a computer, smartphone, or tablet. The courses are divided into chapters with related key terms, infographics, and quizzes to reinforce learning. Students can take the final exam online and receive a certificate of completion upon passing. The courses are highly affordable, often available at discounted rates.
Why RealEstateU is Great for Pre-Licensing: RealEstateU’s pre-licensing courses are tailored for various states, ensuring compliance with state-specific regulations. The audio-based format is ideal for students who prefer auditory learning, and the courses are designed to be flexible and convenient. RealEstateU also offers an online exam prep course to help students prepare for their licensing exam and includes a detailed course completion timeline to keep students on track.
User Experiences and Feedback: RealEstateU’s unique audio-based approach allows students to study hands-free, making it convenient for those with busy schedules. The courses are structured to be easy to follow, with clear explanations and relevant examples. Students appreciate the flexibility to listen to lectures while commuting or during other activities. The affordable pricing, coupled with frequent discounts, makes RealEstateU an attractive option for many.
California Pricing
Pre-Licensing
Price Starts at: $99
Basic Package Features: Includes the state-required 135 hours of training, allowing you to study at your own pace and on the go with on-demand lessons. It’s designed for self-motivated individuals to prepare effectively for the exam.
Upgrade Packages: The “Course + Study Guide” package adds a state exam study guide to reduce study time by up to 90%, focusing on key exam information with sample questions and 13 practice exams. The “Course + Study Guide + Agent Success” package further includes a five-part Agent Success Course, teaching exam passing strategies, broker selection tips, lead conversion techniques, and effective negotiating tactics to grow and maintain a strong client base.
Exam Prep
Price Starts at: $79
Basic Package Features: Include a California real estate license exam study guide and three CA real estate practice tests.
Upgrade Packages: None
Features
Learning Formats: RealEstateU offers self-paced online courses with audio lessons and downloadable materials to help you learn at your own convenience. The courses are accessible on any device, making it easy to study anytime, anywhere.
Course Access: Courses are available for 12 months from the date of enrollment, giving you ample time to complete your studies.
Refund Policy: They offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If you complete less than 50% of the course and are not satisfied, you can request a refund within this period.
Exam Preparation: The courses include state exam study guides, sample questions, practice exams, and an “Agent Success Course” to help you prepare thoroughly for the licensing exam.
Student Support: 24/7 customer support is available via email to assist with any questions or issues.
Additional Resources: Infographic materials, e-textbooks, and detailed lesson outlines to enhance learning. They also offer specialized real estate investment courses covering topics like real estate accounting, syndication, and off-market transactions.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-
✔
Affordable prices and frequent discounts -
✔
Flexibility to study on the go with audio courses -
✔
30-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
-
✖
Study materials may not be as in-depth -
✖
No live instructor support -
✖
Limited additional study materials
To view their current pricing for pre-licensing, first click this linked button, then click “Real Estate License” and fill in your state and the type of real estate education you are looking for (Your State, Get Your License)
360 Training
SmartAgentAlliance Score: B-
Top Feature: Budget-friendly with flexible study options
Why We Chose It: 360 Training Real Estate School offers affordable pricing and comprehensive content, making it an attractive option for students on a budget. The courses are designed to be straightforward and easy to understand, providing a solid foundation for exam preparation.
Overview: 360 Training offers basic and premium course packages, both of which are fully online and can be accessed anytime. The courses are text-based and come with customer support available seven days a week. While the materials are simple and easy to understand, some students have reported issues with the software and customer service.
Why 360 Training is Great for Pre-Licensing: 360 Training’s pre-licensing courses are available for various states and include all necessary coursework to meet state requirements. The courses are structured to be self-paced, allowing students to complete them on their own schedule. Additionally, 360 Training provides exam prep courses and practice tests to help students prepare for the state licensing exam. They also offer a study planner tool to help students organize their study schedule effectively.
User Experiences and Feedback: 360 Training Real Estate School is noted for its budget-friendly pricing and straightforward course design. The self-paced format is particularly beneficial for students who need flexibility in their study schedules. The text-based materials, while simple, are comprehensive and cover all necessary topics for the licensing exams. The school also offers ongoing customer support to assist students throughout their course.
California Pricing
Pre-Licensing
Price Starts at: $72
Basic Package Features: The course includes 135 hours of DRE-approved pre-license education with 3 required courses, a free real estate math practice course, proctored final exams, and certificates of completion for each course.
Upgrade Packages: The Premium Package includes an Exam Prep course with practice tests and a money-back guarantee.
Exam Prep
Price Starts at: $79
Basic Package Features: Not applicable as the Premium course is the same price, no point even looking at the basic.
Upgrade Packages: Includes condensed study guides, endless practice exams grouped by subject, the ability to skip and revisit questions, question-by-question feedback, and a focus on mastering concepts for the National and State portions of the California Salesperson License Exam.
Continuing Education
Price Starts at: $60
Basic Package Features: Includes 20 hours of coursework covering California Agency, Code of Ethics, Trust Funds, Fair Housing, Risk Management, Brokerage Administration and Management, and Implicit Bias Training. It also features at least 18 hours on Consumer Protection topics and 7 hours on Consumer Protection or Consumer Service.
Upgrade Packages: None
Features
Learning Formats: 360Training offers self-paced online courses that can be accessed 24/7 from any device. The courses are designed to be engaging with a mix of text, videos, images, and quizzes to enhance understanding and retention.
Course Access: Students have access to their courses for a full year, providing ample time to complete the material at their own pace.
Refund Policy: 360Training offers a 72-hour refund policy, allowing students to cancel their purchase and receive a full refund within this period if they are not satisfied.
Exam Preparation: The platform includes exam prep materials such as practice exams, a real estate math course, and study guides to help students prepare effectively for their licensing exams. Additionally, they offer proctored final exams for states that require it .
Student Support: Customer support is available seven days a week via live chat and toll-free phone calls to assist students with any issues they might encounter.
Additional Resources: The platform provides a wide range of elective courses for continuing education (CE), covering topics such as tax-favorable real estate transactions and client-focused communications. These courses are available in 32 states.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-
✔
Affordable course options -
✔
Flexibility to study at your own pace -
✔
Customer support available seven days a week
Cons:
-
✖
Strictly text-based materials -
✖
Reports of software and customer service issues
To view their current pricing for pre-licensing, first click this linked button, then choose your State from the dropdown menu on the right of “Get Certified In:” and click “Continue” you will see the prices on the next screen.
Methodology for Our Reviews
Our Review Process:
At SmartAgentAlliance, our goal is to provide accurate and helpful reviews of online real estate schools to assist prospective real estate agents in making informed decisions. Our review process involves several key steps:
Research and Data Collection:
We begin by gathering comprehensive information about each real estate school, including course offerings, pricing, accreditation, and user reviews. This involves visiting the schools’ websites, reading third-party reviews, and gathering feedback from current and former students.
Evaluation Criteria:
Our evaluation is based on several important criteria, including:
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Course Quality:
We assess the content and structure of the courses to ensure they cover all necessary topics comprehensively and are easy to follow.
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Accessibility:
We evaluate the flexibility and accessibility of the courses, including the availability of mobile apps and study materials.
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Pass Rates:
We consider the pass rates of students who have completed the courses and taken the licensing exam.
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Student Support:
We look at the level of support provided to students, including access to instructors, customer service, and additional resources like study guides and practice exams.
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Pricing:
We compare the cost of the courses relative to the value they offer, including any discounts or payment plans available.
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User Feedback:
We gather and analyze feedback from students who have taken the courses to get an understanding of their experiences and satisfaction levels.
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Scoring and Ranking:
Each school is scored based on the evaluation criteria, and an overall score is calculated. The scores are then used to rank the schools, with additional considerations given to standout features that may set a school apart from the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the top online real estate schools in California?
AceableAgent, The CE Shop, Allied Real Estate Schools by Colibri, RealEstateU, and 360 Training.
What is included in the pre-license courses for California?
The pre-license courses for California real estate agents consist of 135 hours of approved education. This includes three 45-hour modules covering Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and a third elective course such as Real Estate Finance. These courses provide the necessary knowledge to prepare for the California salesperson licensing exam.
How do I choose the best online real estate school in California?
Consider factors such as course content, flexibility, cost, support services, and student reviews. Ensure the school is approved by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) and offers the required 135-hour pre-license courses.
Are online real estate courses self-paced?
Yes, most online real estate courses are self-paced, allowing you to study at your own convenience. This flexibility is ideal for students who need to balance their studies with work or other commitments.
Do online real estate schools offer exam prep?
Support varies by school but generally includes access to instructors via email or chat, customer service support, and sometimes live webinars or Q&A sessions.
How much do online real estate courses cost?
The cost of online real estate courses varies by school and package. Basic pre-license courses can start around $100, while comprehensive packages with additional features like exam prep and career support can cost several hundred dollars.
Can I get a refund if I'm not satisfied with the course?
Most online real estate schools offer a refund policy, typically within a certain period (e.g., 30 days) if you haven’t completed a significant portion of the course. Check the specific refund policy of the school you choose.
Is there support available if I have questions during the course?
Yes, reputable online real estate schools offer student support through various channels such as email, phone, and live chat. Some also provide instructor-led webinars and Q&A sessions.
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Smart Agent Alliance Benefits:
At Smart Agent Alliance, we prioritize organization, clarity, and efficiency to help our agents succeed. We provide essential onboarding resources, customizable presentations, business automations, client checklists, business assets, social media content, YouTube support, a growth plan, quality lead generation, production know-how, website support, and top-notch organizational tools.
Wolf Pack Benefits:
The Wolf Pack team at eXp Realty offers expert-led courses like Social Agent Academy 3.0, the Wolf Pack Hub, and the Investor Army for property flipping. We provide tailored assistance for new agents, developing agents, top producers, team leaders, and broker owners. Key resources include lead generation, production know-how, social media content, and YouTube support.
eXp Realty Benefits:
eXp Realty offers a comprehensive range of benefits for agents, focusing on top pay structures, low fees, and free stock options. Agents get an 80/20 commission splits that cap at $16,000 annually, with opportunities to earn 100% commission, receive annual stock awards and gain income through Revenue Share. Additional resources include 24/7 agent support, affordable healthcare, live training, and advanced tech tools like kvCORE and customizable IDX websites.