You used to have a real estate license that proudly bore your name. In your arsenal, there was even a stack of business cards, with your name etched on them. But mistakes have you on the outside looking in with only one question: can a revoked real estate license be reinstated?
Yes, a revoked real estate license can be reinstated. A number of factors, including licensing state, will determine your route to license reinstatement as well as duration.
Let’s consider the California Department of Real Estate. The DRE requires those seeking reinstatement to submit a Petition Application Form and Checklist for Reinstatement before having their licenses restored.
This insightful piece will delve into the complexities surrounding this issue and lay out possible paths forward. By understanding these details, you’ll arm yourself with valuable knowledge that could save your career.
Reinstatement Chances After a Revocation
As petrifying as the thought of license revocation is, you can survive it and bring your license back. But that doesn’t mean it will be an easy process. Several factors will affect your success:
Reason for Revocation
The first factor that will affect your reinstatement is the reason that led to your revocation in the first place. If it was due to professional misconduct or unethical behavior, it might be more challenging than if it were due to lapses in continued education requirements.
Violations involving fraud or finances may be significantly harder to overcome.
If you consider the disciplinary actions bulletin of North Carolina, you will meet cases where an agent’s license was permanently revoked due to real estate law violations and fraud.
However, you may have a good chance at reinstatement if you demonstrate full rehabilitation.
Time Lapse
Another key consideration is how much time has passed since the revocation took place. It’s not uncommon for regulatory bodies to have specified periods during which an individual cannot apply for reinstatement after a revocation.
Most states allow for a year or two gap before reinstating agents. But the complete length may also be affected by the manner of misconduct.
A case of an undisclosed dual agency in Nebraska earned an agent a year’s suspension. The agent spent the first four months barred completely from real estate activity.
Steps Post Revocation
What have you done to right your wrongs? The right post-revocation activity could significantly improve your chances of getting your license back. Some real estate licensing bodies may mandate courses for revoked licenses.
Attack these courses as though they were the only thing stopping your reinstatement. In some cases, they may be.
Pursuing further training or continuing education following your license loss can demonstrate commitment and responsibility toward rectifying past mistakes and enhancing professional competency.
Outlining additional steps taken during your reinstatement application may prove to licensing boards that you’ve learned to keep clients’ best interests at heart.
State Reinstatement Policies
The last factor that can influence reinstatement is state-specific policies and requirements regarding revocation and reinstatement. These can range from completion of specific courses to passing exams again.
The Delaware Real Estate Commission requires applicants filling out the Application for Reinstatement of Real Estate License to retake the law portion of the Delaware real estate exam.
The policies differ substantially across states. Thus, understanding your jurisdiction thoroughly plays an integral part in the successful application process for restoring lost credentials.
Outlook for Reinstated Agents
Reinstating your real estate license will earn you second chances and second glances. Life after reinstatement is a continuous strive to prove competency and re-earn trust.
Stigma
The reality real estate agents will have to deal with is the continual stigma that will follow them like shadows. Some clients, lenders, and even brokerages may remain hesitant to trust you as they once did.
Proving misconceptions wrong takes time and perfect diligence. My advice? Dig in your heels and re-earn your client’s trust.
Extra Diligence Going Forward
Speaking of diligence, you’ll need to exhibit far more caution and precision in your work. Hold yourself to higher documentation standards, knowing more eyes are watching.
Never cut corners or risk repeating past noncompliance.
Reinstated agents must demonstrate unparalleled commitment to ethical practices, superior service delivery, and continuous learning to distinguish themselves from competitors and quell doubts about their credibility.
Reputation Rebuilding
Perhaps most vital is the long process of rebuilding your reputation. Unfortunately, a revocation bruises not just ego but public perception. You will need to slowly recapture respect and trust through genuine care for clients’ needs.
Think of it like planting a seedling after a wildfire has swept through a forest. It may take time, care, and patience, but eventually, a new life will sprout forth stronger than before.
Similarly, reinstating trust among clients and peers doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistent actions over time that reflect integrity and professionalism.
The Winding Road Back
Reinstating a revoked real estate license is not easy. But it is possible. It requires deliberate rebuilding and taking steps toward rehabilitation and professional growth.
Next Steps
Ready to take the first step? Here are some actions you could start with:
1. Understand why you lost your license: This will help tailor your approach when applying for reinstatement.
2. Research state-specific policies: Understanding what’s required within your jurisdiction is essential before starting any application process.
3. Pursue further education or training: Demonstrating commitment to bettering yourself professionally can swing things in favor of reinstatement.
Do you have experience with revocation and reinstatement? Are there any more tips or advice on paddling through this tough time? We’d love to hear from you! Share them in the comments.
