Real estate agents and brokers have a thorough knowledge of the house market in their community and know which neighborhood will best fit their clients' needs. Agents and brokers also act as a medium for price negotiations between buyer and seller and know where to obtain financing.
Many firms offer formal training programs for both beginners and experienced agents.
Some universities, colleges and junior colleges offer an associate of bachelor's degree with a major in real estate. As real estate transactions have become more legally complex many firms have turned to college graduates to fill positions. Their knowledge of local neighborhoods is a clear advantage. Most states require candidates for the general sales license to complete between 30 and 90 hours of classroom instruction. Those seeking a broker's license need between 60 and 90 hours of formal training and a specific amount of experience selling real estate, usually one to three years.