When it comes to buying, selling, or managing property in Georgia, understanding the role of the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) is essential. Whether you’re a real estate agent, broker, property manager, or simply a curious homeowner, the Commission governs much of what makes the real estate industry in Georgia credible and compliant. By regulating licenses and addressing violations, the Georgia Real Estate Commission helps ensure real estate practices remain lawful and ethical.
What Is the Georgia Real Estate Commission?
Operating under state authority, the Georgia Real Estate Commission governs and monitors the professional standards of the real estate industry. It oversees the licensure of real estate brokers and salespersons, enforces Georgia’s real estate laws, sets educational standards, and investigates violations.
Unlike private associations, the GREC operates under the Georgia Real Estate License Law, which gives it legal authority to regulate the profession. Its goal is to protect the public interest and maintain high standards of integrity within the real estate industry.
Responsibilities of the Georgia Real Estate Commission
Licensing and Regulation
One of the Commission’s primary roles is issuing licenses to qualified individuals. The GREC handles:
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Real estate salesperson licenses
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Real estate broker licenses
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Firm licenses
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Instructor approvals for education providers
To be eligible, individuals must satisfy educational prerequisites, pass an exam, and undergo a background verification process. In addition, the Commission mandates continuing education (CE) every four years to ensure licensees stay updated with changes in the law and industry best practices.
Investigating Complaints and Enforcing the Law
The GREC investigates consumer complaints and takes disciplinary actions when laws or ethical standards are violated. This can include:
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Issuing fines
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Suspending or revoking licenses
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Ordering remedial education
By enforcing these actions, the commission ensures professional accountability and shields consumers from misconduct.
How to Get Licensed by the Georgia Real Estate Commission
Requirements for a Salesperson License
To become a licensed real estate salesperson in Georgia, you must:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Possess a high school diploma or GED
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Complete 75 hours of approved pre-license education
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Pass the Georgia Real Estate Salesperson Examination
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Submit to a background check
After passing the exam, applicants have 12 months to apply for licensure. If they wait longer, they must retake the exam.
Broker License Requirements
To qualify as a broker, candidates must:
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Be at least 21 years old
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Hold an active salesperson license for 3 of the last 5 years
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Complete 60 hours of approved broker education
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Pass the Broker Licensing Exam
Georgia Real Estate Commission vs Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board
Although both agencies fall under the Georgia Real Estate Commission umbrella, they serve different purposes:
| Feature | Georgia Real Estate Commission | Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board |
|---|---|---|
| Regulates | Salespersons, Brokers | Appraisers |
| Oversees | Licensing, Compliance | Appraisal Standards |
| Education | Pre-license, Post-license, CE | Appraisal-specific curriculum |
| Disciplinary Authority | Yes | Yes |
Continuing Education Requirements
The GREC mandates that all licensees complete 36 hours of continuing education every 4 years. This must include:
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3 hours on Georgia License Law
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33 hours of elective or brokerage-specific topics
Online and in-person CE courses are approved by the Commission. Licensees who fail to meet these requirements face suspension or non-renewal of their license.
Consumer Protection and Ethical Oversight
The GREC provides transparency and safety for Georgia’s real estate consumers. Key features include:
Public License Verification
Consumers can check the license status of agents or brokers through the GREC’s online portal. This ensures that they are dealing with legally authorized professionals.
Complaint Filing System
If a buyer, seller, or tenant believes they’ve been misled or mistreated, they can file a complaint. The Commission will assess the claim, initiate an investigation if warranted, and take necessary disciplinary action.
Trust Account Regulations
Licensed brokers handling client funds must maintain trust accounts as outlined by the GREC. Regular audits ensure that client money is handled ethically and legally.
Technological Advancements and Online Services
The Georgia Real Estate Commission has embraced technology to improve access and transparency. Some online services include:
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License renewal portals
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Online application submissions
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Approved course directories
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E-filed complaints and public record access
This shift has made the GREC more efficient and user-friendly, especially for those working in remote or rural areas.
Recent Policy Updates
In 2024–2025, the Commission implemented several new rules:
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Increased scrutiny of advertising compliance, particularly for online and social media platforms
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Updated standards for virtual education to match in-person quality
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Revised post-license course structure, emphasizing practical transaction scenarios
These reforms reflect changing market dynamics and ensure that licensees remain adaptable in a digital-first world.
Why GREC Matters for Buyers and Sellers
For consumers, the Georgia Real Estate Commission serves as a safeguard. Whether buying a home, renting an apartment, or hiring a property manager, consumers rely on the GREC to:
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Ensure agents are properly trained and licensed
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Maintain standards of transparency and disclosure
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Provide recourse when things go wrong
Having a regulatory body like the GREC is especially important in today’s volatile housing market, where demand often outpaces supply, and scams are increasingly sophisticated.
Conclusion: Navigating Georgia Real Estate with Confidence
The Georgia Real Estate Commission plays a pivotal role in shaping a fair, transparent, and well-regulated property market. Whether you are a professional looking to enter the field or a consumer navigating a major life purchase, understanding the GREC’s role will help you make informed, confident decisions.
Next step: If you are considering a career in Georgia real estate or have questions about licensing, visit the official GREC website for accurate and up-to-date information.
FAQs About the Georgia Real Estate Commission
1: How do I contact the Georgia Real Estate Commission?
- You can reach them via their official website at grec.state.ga.us, or call their office at (404) 656-3916 during business hours.
2: Can I take my real estate education online?
- Yes, the GREC approves many online schools that offer pre-license, post-license, and continuing education courses. Always verify that a provider is Commission-approved before enrolling.
3: How long does it take to become a licensed agent in Georgia?
- Most candidates complete the process within 3–6 months, depending on how quickly they finish the 75-hour course and pass the state exam.
4: What happens if I miss my continuing education deadline?
- If you do not complete your CE requirements, your license will not be renewed. You may face late renewal penalties or temporary suspension.
5: Does the GREC handle property management licensing?
- Yes, any person managing property on behalf of others must hold a real estate license unless they fall under specific legal exemptions.
Citations:
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Georgia Real Estate Commission. Official Website. https://grec.state.ga.us/
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Georgia Real Estate License Law, Georgia Code Title 43
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CE Course Guidelines from Georgia Real Estate Commission Education Handbook