How to Become a Property Manager in Florida
Are you interested in becoming a property manager in Florida? Finding the best path for you when entering the industry is the first step. We’ve created a guide that details everything you need to know, from starting out in entry-level positions, all the way to starting your own property management business.
The Different Routes to Becoming a Property Manager
Let’s look at a few different paths to help you pick the best option.
Entry-Level/Unlicensed Property Manager
If you’re looking to get your foot in the door without making a big commitment upfront, an entry-level role in property management might be for you. This typically means less pay, and you'll be starting your career without a real estate license. All you need to get started is the drive to start applying for jobs. These kinds of roles might be listed as “leasing agent,” “apartment manager,” “onsite manager,” and so on.
Your duties would most likely include administrative tasks, such as maintenance operations, tenant relations, and rent collection. You’d also be working under an individual, or a group, who does have a real estate license or brokerage designation.
Licensed Property Manager
If you’re looking to enter property management with a mid- or senior-level salary and comparable role, then getting your Florida real estate license may be the best fit for you. With your license, more property management employment opportunities – and a higher salary – opens up. According to salary.com, the median pay for a licensed property manager in Florida is over $100,000.
With a real estate license, Florida law allows you to participate in the actual leasing and renting of properties, and a higher level of representation for your broker than non-licensed individuals. As a bonus, with your Florida real estate license in hand, you can still choose to sell real estate on the side, which can be a financially rewarding side gig.
Business Owner Property Manager
If you’re looking to start your own business, then becoming a business owner property manager may be the best fit for you. In Florida, you will need to get your Real Estate Broker license to take charge of running your own property management company.
Plus, you’ll be able to hire other property managers and will have an uncapped earning potential.
Florida Property Manager Requirements
Before you begin your career as a property manager, Florida requires that you earn a Real Estate Sales Associate license.
The prerequisites for earning a Real Estate Sales Associate license in Florida are:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or GED
- Be a US citizen or a legal permanent resident of the US
Meeting the above requirements ensures that you are eligible to be hired by a real estate brokerage.
3 Steps to Become a Licensed Property Manager in Florida
1. Earn Your Florida Real Estate Sales Associate License
First, you must complete and pass the required 63 hours of Florida real estate Pre-Licensing education – approved by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Next, you’ll need to take and pass the Florida Real Estate Exam. You’ll also need to find a sponsoring broker and then apply for your Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license.
For a more in-depth look, read our step-by-step guide on becoming a Florida real estate agent.
2. Choose Your Path in Property Management
With some real estate experience under your belt, it’s time to choose your path in property management.
Generally, you have two options:
- Build your property management business under your broker.
This option is best if you’re starting out in real estate and want to gain experience under the guidance of an existing broker or group. This will lay the foundation for your future career growth. - Earn your Broker’s license and start your own property management company.
In Florida, you are required to have your Broker’s license to start your own property management company. Earning a Florida Broker’s license requires two years of full-time real estate agent experience, 72 hours of Broker Pre-Licensing coursework, and passing a Broker exam.
- Build your property management business under your broker.
3. Earn Property Management Certifications
In Florida, licensed property managers are only required to have a Real Estate Sales Associate or Broker license.
Earning a certification beyond a Real Estate Sales Associate or Broker license also instills trust in both clients and potential employers, helps set you apart from your competition, and demonstrates your proficiency in property management.
The most common property management certifications available include:
- National Association of Realtors - Certified Property Manager (NAR-CPM)
- Certified Apartment Leasing Professional (CALP)
- Certified Apartment Manager (CAM)
- Certified Property Manager (CPM)
- Master Property Manager (MPM)
Earning one or more of these certifications involves a combination of coursework hours, experience hours, passing an exam, and in some cases, submitting a portfolio detailing your property management experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Property Management in Florida
What does a property manager do in Florida?
What are Florida property manager education requirements?
In Florida, can I be a real estate agent and a property manager at the same time?
What are some Florida property management associations or groups I could join?
How much does it cost to become a property manager in Florida?
What is the salary of a property manager in Florida?
Are property managers in demand in Florida?
What are the top three skills property managers need to be successful?
How do I start my own property management company?
Start Your Florida Property Management Career With The CE Shop
Success in property management starts with knowing the ins and outs of real estate. The best way to get started is by earning your Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license. The CE Shop’s industry-leading Real Estate Pre-Licensing courses offer everything you need to get licensed and start a new career journey in property management.
