High School

While in high school, you should take college preparatory classes such as business, English, math, history, and government. Speech and communications courses will help you prepare for speaking in front of groups of people. Writing skills are very important because you’ll be preparing reports, lesson plans, and grading essays. Take classes such as English and social studies, which often require written reports to help you perfect your research and writing skills. Teachers use computers to do research, write reports, calculate and report grades, as well as to conduct online lessons. Increase your computer comfort level by taking all the computer classes your school has to offer.

Postsecondary Education

Before becoming a real estate teacher, you’ll need to gain some professional experience in this area. A bachelor’s degree is often required in real estate, business, or a related field, though some colleges and universities will only consider those with a master’s degree or higher. Many faculty members teaching at top-tier conferences hold advanced degrees in real estate or business or law degrees with concentrations in real estate.

However, many teachers offering instruction at park district or adult enrichment classes are hired based more on their specific skills. For example, a person with expertise in real estate sales will be a prime candidate to conduct property sales training courses.

Other Education or Training

The Real Estate Educators Association provides webinars on interacting successfully with students from different backgrounds and other topics. It also provides educational sessions at its annual conference. Past offerings included "How to Accelerate Learning in the Online World," "21st Century Technology Update for Real Estate Educators," and "Curriculum and Course Design 101." The National Association of Realtors also offers continuing education opportunities for real estate professionals. Contact these organizations for more information. 

Certification or Licensing

The Real Estate Educators Association (REEA) offers the distinguished real estate instructor (DREI) certification to those who complete training and successfully pass an examination. This designation is awarded to individuals who have proven knowledge of their industry and excellent teaching experience in a classroom setting. The DREI certification must be renewed every three years. Contact the REEA for more information on this particular certification as well as other links to industry certification opportunities as accredited by the National Association of Realtors.

Experience as a teacher or in a particular real estate specialty (such as sales or financing) is required to become a successful real estate educator.

As a teacher, you should be able to interact with students at different skill levels, including some who might not have learned proper study habits or who have a different first language. This requires patience, as well as the ability to track the progress of each individual student. Good communication skills are essential, as you’ll need to explain things clearly and to answer questions completely. Other important traits include good organizational and leadership skills.