Top 3 online Illinois real estate schools
Choosing one of the best online Illinois real estate school 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 Illinois. 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 3 Best Online Real Estate Schools in Illinois
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.
Illinois Pricing
Pre-Licensing
Price Starts at: $233.35
Basic Package Features: Illinois Broker License Package: This package includes 75 hours of instruction required for the Illinois broker license, covering exam preparation and essential business knowledge. The courses include a 60-hour Broker Pre-License Topics and a 15-hour Applied Real Estate Principles – Interactive.
Upgrade Packages: Yes, they have packages all the way up to their Premium package. This 75-hour package fulfills the Illinois broker license requirements and includes exam prep, business-building courses, an eTextbook, and a 45-hour Post-Licensing course for your first renewal. It also features the ProPath Real Estate Career Kickstarter, offering 9 hours of professional development on business planning, lead generation, and negotiation skills.
Exam Prep
Price Starts at: $101.25
Basic Package Features:This program covers the entire Illinois Broker licensing exam and includes Exam Prep Edge, an intuitive online study tool. It features an initial assessment with immediate feedback, dynamic practice exams with unique questions, and real-time dashboards to track your progress and focus on areas needing improvement before exam day.
Upgrade Packages: None
Post-Licensing
Price Starts at: $295
Basic Package Features: Illinois Broker Post-Licensing Package: This complete 45-hour package covers all required courses for first-time license renewal, including 15-hour Applied Brokerage Principles, 15-hour Risk Management and Discipline (including 1-hour Sexual Harassment Prevention Training), and 15-hour Transactional Issues.
Upgrade Packages: Yes, The ProPath including courses on Applied Brokerage Principles, Risk Management and Discipline, and Transactional Issues, with required Sexual Harassment Prevention Training. It also includes the ProPath Real Estate Business Builder program, covering pricing strategies, tax planning for the self-employed, and business budgeting.
Continuing Education
Price Starts at: $115
Basic Package Features:Illinois Broker CE Package: This 12-hour continuing education package for active brokers includes 4 mandatory core hours and 8 elective hours. It covers Ethical Excellence (4 elective hours) and includes the required 1-hour Sexual Harassment Prevention Training as part of the elective hours.
Upgrade Packages: ProPath Network Builder Program: This program enhances your real estate career by teaching you to build a strong referral network, master personal branding, and develop strategic communication tools. You’ll also learn to boost visibility in a competitive market through social media and web optimization, and cultivate long-term business relationships by enhancing client satisfaction and trust.
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)
Colibri Real Estate
SmartAgentAlliance Score: A
Top Feature: Affordable and comprehensive study materials
Why We Chose It: Colibri Real Estate 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. Colibri’s courses are designed to be clear and easy to understand, making them a great choice for budget-conscious students.
Overview: Colibri Real Estate 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 Colibri Real Estate is Great for Pre-Licensing: Colibri Real Estate’ 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. Colibri 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: Colibri Real Estate 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.
Illinois Pricing
Pre-Licensing
Price Starts at: $213.60
Basic Package Features: Pre-License Course Package: This 75-hour pre-license course includes state-approved instructor support, 3 real estate study guides, narrated audio with adjustable speeds, and career support through Buffini & Company coaching videos.
Upgrade Packages: Includes expert instructor support, flexible audio learning options, and e-books to reinforce essential real estate concepts. It features CompuCram exam prep with interactive tools, unlimited practice tests, and a readiness tracker. Additionally, the package offers live webinars, a 1-year Career Booster Pack with professional growth tools, and a printed textbook. A “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee is included, ensuring confidence for your exam day.
Exam Prep
Price Starts at: $69
Basic Package Features: CompuCram Exam Prep: Includes simulated exams, flashcards, a readiness assessment, and audio review guides to help you prepare effectively.
Upgrade Packages: Yes, they includes CompuCram Exam Prep with simulated exams, flashcards, readiness assessments, and audio review guides. It also offers live and interactive instruction through the Exam Crammer Webinar Series and Instructor Q&A. Additionally, a 45-hour post-license course with state-approved instructor support is included.
Post-Licensing
Price Starts at: $223.20
Basic Package Features: Offers self-paced online courses, allowing you to complete the state-required hours on your own time with support from expert local instructors. It includes a RISMedia Premier Membership, providing access to premium journalism, market analysis, webinars, and exclusive events. Additionally, the package features a narrated audio option, enabling you to learn when and where you want while staying compliant in Illinois.
Upgrade Packages: None
Continuing Education
Price Starts at: $109
Basic Package Features:This 12-hour course package includes narrated audio options for flexible learning, covering essential topics for Illinois real estate compliance. Courses include the Illinois 4-Hour Core, focusing on consumer protection and compliance with the Real Estate License Act of 2000; “May the Code Be With You,” which addresses the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics; Sexual Harassment Prevention Training, emphasizing risk management; and a Fair Housing course that covers key laws and non-discriminatory practices.
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, click this linked button, then select your desired State, Education Selection, and Education Option Selection.
Illinois Realtors
SmartAgentAlliance Score: A-
Top Feature: Affordable and comprehensive study materials
Why We Chose It: Illinois REALTORS® is recognized for offering cost-effective real estate courses combined with thorough study materials. The courses are designed to meet the needs of aspiring real estate professionals in Illinois, providing clear, user-friendly content that prepares students effectively for their licensing exams.
Overview: Offers a variety of online and in-person courses tailored to prepare students for the Illinois real estate licensing exams. These courses are competitively priced and provide extensive support and resources, making them accessible and practical for many students.
Why Colibri Real Estate is Great for Pre-Licensing:The pre-licensing courses offered by Illinois REALTORS® include interactive study tools such as practice exams, flashcards, and exam simulators. All courses are state-approved and meet the required licensure standards. They also feature a “pass or don’t pay” guarantee, ensuring that students can retake the course if they do not pass the exam on their first try. Additionally, a career starter guide is provided to help new agents transition smoothly into their real estate careers.
User Experiences and Feedback:Illinois REALTORS® has a strong reputation for delivering value for money. The study materials are consistently updated to reflect the latest industry standards and practices. Students particularly value the detailed exam preparation support, including practice exams and study guides, which are crucial for passing the Illinois state licensing exams. While customer support can sometimes be slow, it is generally knowledgeable and helpful in resolving issues.
Illinois Pricing
Pre-Licensing
Price Starts at: $475
Basic Package Features:This package includes a 60-Hour Broker Pre-License Topics course and a 15-Hour Applied Real Estate Principles course, both 100% online and self-guided. It prepares you for the Illinois broker license exam and provides foundational business knowledge. Hosted on the Leap Learning platform.
Upgrade Packages: None, but there are other forms of instruction, as in live courses.
Exam Prep
Price Starts at: $99
Basic Package Features:This program fully prepares you for the Illinois Broker national and state licensing exams through Exam Prep Edge, an intuitive online study platform. It includes an initial assessment with instant feedback, dynamic practice exams with unique questions, and real-time dashboards to help you focus on areas needing improvement, ensuring you’re ready for exam day.
Upgrade Packages: None
Post-Licensing
Price Starts at: $269
Basic Package Features:45-hour Post-License education is for brokers in their first renewal cycle and includes three 15-hour courses, each with a 50-question exam. Courses cover Risk Management/Discipline (includes Sexual Harassment Prevention Training), Transactional Issues, and Applied Brokerage Principles. The curriculum focuses on essential topics like fair housing, brokerage practices, disclosures, and business skills. A 475 license number is required to receive credit.
Upgrade Packages: There are multiple single courses and such, but what is listed is the main package
Continuing Education
Price Starts at: $115
Basic Package Features:This 12-hour self-guided online course fulfills the broker management core requirement for managing brokers in Illinois. Available on the Leap Learning portal, it covers key topics such as new definitions in the Illinois Real Estate License Act, managing broker roles, supervision of licensees, escrow and transaction oversight, agency disclosure laws, online advertising regulations, and training requirements for sponsoring brokers. The course also includes real-world activities and scenarios to reinforce learning.
Upgrade Packages: Yes, 24-hour self-guided online package fulfills all the required hours for Managing Broker license renewals in Illinois. It includes courses on Illinois Broker Management (12 mandatory hours), IL Core (4 mandatory hours), The Code of Ethics in Action (3 elective hours), Illinois Sexual Harassment Prevention Training (3 elective hours), and Personal Safety (2 elective hours). All materials are available on the Leap Learning portal, and the Code of Ethics course may meet the REALTORS® requirement, subject to confirmation with your local association.
Features
Learning Options: Select from self-paced online courses or live-streamed classes with real-time instructors, providing a flexible learning experience tailored to your schedule.
Course Access: Enjoy 12 months of access from the date of enrollment, giving you ample time to complete your studies at your own pace.
Refund Policy: Full refund available for self-paced courses if canceled within 14 days, and within 48 hours for live-stream courses.
Pass Guarantee: For packages with exam prep, Illinois Realtors will refund the course cost if you score 80% or higher on simulated exams but fail the Illinois state exam on your first attempt.
Exam Preparation: Comprehensive prep tools include digital flashcards, mock exams, readiness assessments, audio review guides, and six one-hour live webinars led by experienced instructors.
Instructor Support: Access to expert instructors is available via phone during business hours or through email for additional assistance.
Final Exam Process: Virtual proctoring is available nationwide; Illinois state exams are administered by the IDFPR at designated testing centers.
Additional Resources: Access a wide range of resources, including state-specific pre-licensing, continuing education, broker licensing courses, practice exams, and an Illinois real estate dictionary.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- ✔
Financial aid is available - ✔
Instructors are accessible for support - ✔
Courses include career guidance
Cons:
- ✖
No guarantee of passing - ✖
Courses are non-refundable once started
To view their current pricing, click this linked button, then select your desired State, Education Selection, and Education Option Selection.
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 Texas real estate schools?
The CE Shop, Colibri Real Estate Schools, and 360 Training.
What is included in the pre-license courses for Illinois?
The Illinois real estate pre-license courses cover essential topics to prepare you for the state licensing exam and a successful career in real estate. Key areas include:
- Real Estate Principles: Basic concepts, property rights, and ownership types.
- Illinois Real Estate Law: Contracts, agency relationships, and fair housing.
- Finance: Mortgages, financing, and lender roles.
- Property Valuation: Market analysis and appraisal techniques.
- Real Estate Practice: Listing, marketing, negotiations, and closings.
- Ethics: Professional standards and conduct.
- Agency & Brokerage: Broker-agent relationships and fiduciary duties.
- Math Skills: Calculating commissions, property taxes, and mortgages.
- Exam Prep: Practice questions and test strategies.
Completing these courses equips you with the knowledge to pass the Illinois licensing exam and succeed in the real estate market.
How do I choose the best online Illinois real estate school?
When choosing the best online Illinois real estate school, consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure IDFPR approval.
- Content: Comprehensive, Illinois-specific curriculum.
- Flexibility: Self-paced or live options.
- Support: Access to instructors and study aids.
- Reputation: Positive reviews and high pass rates.
- Cost: Affordable without sacrificing quality.
Evaluate these factors to find the right school for your needs.
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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