News
Realtors adhere to a strict code of ethics approved by the National Association of Realtors. The code assumes that people conducting a real estate transaction must adhere to a higher set of standards that those people working in other business arena.
Keeping track of current issues and trends in the real estate industry empowers licensees to directly address concerns the public, and other licensees, might have with real estate.
> The Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Florida
The Center for Real Estate Studies is located within the Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida. The Center actively supports the educational programs, students, and faculty of the College through its member activities, scholarship and endowment programs, and annual events for industry executives.
For more information visit The Center for Real Estate Studies online.
> Unlicensed Real Estate Activity
Trained and licensed real estate agents are needed not only to serve the growing real estate market, but also to combat unlicensed real estate activity. The Division of Real Estate aggressively investigates complaints against licensed real estate professionals and unlicensed individuals. During Fiscal Year 2003-2004, the Division received over 5,000 such complaints. Each case is reviewed for possible violations of real estate laws or rules.
Those cases found legally sufficient are subject to further investigation. Once probable cause is found, the case is submitted to the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) for a determination of legally substantial violations and possible disciplinary action. In 2003-2004, FREC issued over 500 dispositions of discipline.
> Felony Status
Effective July 1, 2003, the unlicensed practice of real estate in Florida became a 3rd degree felony. The department, the division and FREC take unlicensed practice very seriously. Victims of unlicensed activity range from the unsuspecting citizens who hire these individuals to sell or purchase real estate, to the licensees who assist unlicensed activity by conducting business with them. If you are aware of someone working without a license, you should report the matter to DBPR at once.
> Renew Your License Online, By Phone or By Mail
You may renew your license online at www.MyFloridaLicense.com. You may also renew your license by calling the Customer Contact Center at 850.487.1395 or by returning the renewal notice with the appropriate fee. By paying the appropriate renewal fee, you affirm that you have completed the Florida Real Estate Commission-prescribed education requirements. DO NOT SEND EDUCATION CERTIFICATES WITH YOUR RENEWAL.
Approximately 40 percent of licensees renew their licenses online or through the Customer Contact Center. Additional online services include updating your mailing address, checking continuing education history and finding approved continuing education courses. In 2004, with the established success of our Online Services and in response to the users’ demand for more functionality, FREC gave real estate brokers and corporations the ability to add and delete their sales associates online in real time.
