How to Become a Property Manager in Ohio: The Licensing Requirements

If you’re looking to become a property manager in Ohio, you’ll need to meet certain licensing requirements. In this article, we will outline the steps that you need to take in order to obtain your property management license. We will also discuss the different types of licenses available and what each one covers. So if you’re interested in becoming a property manager in Ohio, keep reading!

An Ohio real estate license is required in order to perform the following activities for a third party:

  • Negotiating or offering to negotiate a real estate transaction or a lease
  • Executing or offering to execute a contract of sale of real estate
  • Receiving earnest money in connection with a prospective sale or lease of real estate
  • Listing property for sale or lease
  • Advertising property for sale or lease using the Internet, newspapers, magazines, yard signs, flyers, etc.
  • Renting or leasing real estate
  • Collecting rent from tenants
  • Supervising the construction, repair, or remodeling of homes and other buildings

No license is required if:

  • You are the owner of the property and you manage it yourself
  • You are an employee of the owner who is not paid a commission or other compensation based on the sale, lease, or management of a real estate.
  • The property is leased to a governmental entity
  • Trustee in bankruptcy or executors/guardians.

Type of Real Estate Licenses

There are two types of licenses that you can apply for: a broker’s license or a salesperson’s license.

If you don’t have a license in any state you have to apply for a salesperson license. The requirements to get a salesperson license in Ohio are:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a High School Diploma
  • The candidates should be of good moral character as determined by a background check
  • Complete the required education of 120 hours at approved schools
  • Pass the state and national examination
  • Submit an application to Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing
  • Submit fingerprints for a background check
  • Find a sponsoring broker

If you already have a salesperson license in Ohio or in another state, you can apply for a broker’s license. Here are the requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a High School Diploma
  • The candidates should be of good moral character as determined by a background check
  • Experience: at least two years as a broker or a salesperson and at least 20 real estate transactions.
  • Complete the required education at approved schools
  • Pass the state and national examination
  • Submit an application to Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing
  • Submit fingerprints for a background check

If you have a salesperson license and you want to manage properties you have to do it under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. Before you start working as a property manager you should:

  • Get experience working with a licensed real estate broker who allows property management. Many brokers avoid it because of the increased liabilities.
  • Take courses in property management
  • Join your local chapter of the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM®)
  • Become familiar with the Ohio Landlord-Tenant Laws.
  • Have an understanding of Fair Housing Laws.

The rewards of working as a property manager are many. You can have a flexible schedule, be your own boss, and make a good regular income. Property management is a great career for those who are organized, detail-oriented, and have good people skills. If you think you have what it takes to be a property manager, then start the process of getting your license. Thanks for reading! We hope this article has helped you on your journey to becoming a property manager in Ohio!

Please Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney.

References:

Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing