Thinking about a career in Illinois real estate? You’ve probably seen glamorous portrayals on TV or heard stories about agents making quick fortunes. The truth is, there are plenty of Illinois real estate agent myths that can either discourage newcomers or create unrealistic expectations.
A real estate career can be flexible and rewarding—but only if you understand the reality behind the misconceptions. Let’s clear up some of the most common Illinois real estate misconceptions so you can begin your journey with confidence.
Myth 1: You Need a College Degree
The Reality: To become a licensed broker in Illinois, you only need to be 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and complete 75 hours of pre-licensing coursework approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
A bachelor’s degree isn’t required. Many successful Illinois agents come from backgrounds in teaching, sales, hospitality, or other fields. The 75-hour Illinois pre-licensing course provides the foundation you need to pass the state exam and start your career.
Myth 2: Getting Licensed Takes Years
The Reality: Becoming licensed does take effort, but it doesn’t take years. Students who dedicate consistent time can complete the education requirements in just a few weeks. After coursework, you’ll schedule the Illinois Real Estate Broker Exam, select a sponsoring managing broker, and submit your application to IDFPR.
Motivated students can move through the process in as little as two to three months. For a closer look at timing, see this walkthrough of how long it takes to get an Illinois real estate license.
Myth 3: The Illinois Exam Is Impossible
The Reality: The Illinois Real Estate Broker Examination is challenging but achievable with preparation. It includes 140 multiple-choice questions—100 national and 40 state-specific—and requires a 75% passing score on each section.
Success depends on consistent study habits and using resources designed for exam practice. Many students build confidence with an Illinois exam prep program and lean on deep-dive guides like this Illinois real estate exam overview and a practical guide on how to pass the Illinois exam.
Myth 4: All Agents Earn Six Figures Right Away
The Reality: Real estate is a commission-based business, so income depends on how many transactions you close and the price points of those deals. First-year agents typically focus on building a client base and may earn modestly while covering startup costs.
With time and experience, earnings can grow significantly. For a realistic view of earning potential, see this breakdown of how much real estate agents make in Illinois.
Myth 5: Real Estate Is Easy Money
The Reality: The job involves much more than showing homes and collecting checks. Agents act as small business owners, balancing marketing, client prospecting, negotiations, contracts, and problem-solving. Many of these tasks happen outside traditional business hours.
There are also expenses such as licensing fees, association dues, marketing budgets, and technology tools. Building a career requires treating real estate as a serious business with systems, budgeting, and consistent effort.
Myth 6: The Illinois Market Is Too Competitive
The Reality: Illinois has plenty of licensed brokers, but opportunity is everywhere. People are always buying, selling, and renting homes because of life changes like job moves, family growth, or retirement.
Agents who succeed carve out a niche—first-time buyers, specific neighborhoods, or particular property types—and win on service, knowledge, and trust.
Myth 7: Part-Time Agents Can’t Succeed
The Reality: Many people ease into real estate part-time while maintaining another career. Success in this path requires excellent time management and clear communication with clients. Some part-time brokers partner with full-time agents in their office to ensure availability for showings and closings.
With the right systems and support, part-time real estate can be a stepping stone to a full-time career.
Separating Myths from Reality
A career in real estate isn’t a shortcut to instant wealth or unlimited free time. But for motivated individuals who want independence, flexibility, and growth potential, it can be an excellent fit.
The path to starting in Illinois is clear:
Complete the 75-hour Illinois pre-licensing course.
Prepare with structured tools such as Illinois exam prep and in-depth exam guides.
Partner with a sponsoring managing broker for guidance and compliance.
Apply for your license through IDFPR and begin building your business.
The myths are easy to believe—but the facts show that Illinois real estate is a career path full of opportunity if you’re prepared to put in the work.