By Ashley 
Colorado real estate license renewal is an important step for real estate agents in the state to make sure they can keep working in the field. While the renewal process is fairly straightforward, many agents make common mistakes that can cause unnecessary delays or complications. To avoid these issues and ensure your license is renewed on time, it’s important to understand the potential pitfalls and how to avoid them. In this article, we will highlight some of the most common mistakes made during the renewal process and provide tips on how to prevent them.
1. Missing the Renewal Deadline
One of the most common mistakes real estate agents make is failing to renew their license before the expiration date. In Colorado, real estate licenses are valid for three years, and agents are typically notified by the Colorado Real Estate Commission (CREC) about 90 days before their license expires. However, many agents don’t take action until the last minute, risking missing the deadline entirely.
How to Avoid It:
To avoid missing your renewal deadline, make a note of your license expiration date and set a personal reminder at least 90 days before it expires. It’s also a good idea to start the renewal process as soon as you receive the CREC’s renewal notice. Submitting your renewal application early ensures that you have plenty of time to address any issues that may arise during the process.
2. Incomplete or Incorrect Continuing Education (CE) Credits
In Colorado, completing continuing education (CE) is a requirement for Colorado real estate license renewal. Real estate agents must complete 24 hours of approved CE during each three-year license cycle. This includes 8 hours of mandatory courses and 16 hours of elective courses. However, some agents mistakenly submit incomplete or inaccurate records of their CE hours, which can delay the renewal process.
How to Avoid It:
Before you submit your renewal application, double-check that you have completed all the required CE hours and that the courses are approved by the CREC. Keep accurate records of your completed CE courses, including certificates of completion, to ensure that all information is correct. If you complete CE online, some providers automatically report your hours to the CREC, but it’s still your responsibility to confirm that the courses are properly reported.
3. Failure to Submit Required Documentation
When renewing your real estate license, you are required to provide certain documentation, such as proof of completed continuing education and payment of the renewal fee. Not having or giving the right paperwork can cause delays or your application being turned down, which could lead to your license expiring.
How to Avoid It:
Make sure that you gather all necessary documents before starting the renewal process. This includes your CE certificates, personal details, and payment information for the renewal fee. When completing the online renewal application, carefully follow all instructions and upload any required documentation. If you are unsure whether the documents are complete, refer to the CREC’s guidelines or contact them for assistance.
4. Not Paying the Renewal Fee on Time
The renewal fee for a Colorado real estate license is a required part of the renewal process. Some agents make the mistake of forgetting to pay the fee or waiting until the last minute, which can cause delays in processing the renewal. If the renewal fee is not paid by the deadline, your license may not be renewed, even if all other steps have been completed.
How to Avoid It:
When renewing your license, make sure that you are aware of the renewal fee and have the necessary funds available. The fee is typically paid online as part of the renewal process, so be prepared to submit payment at the time you submit your application. Be mindful of payment deadlines to ensure that your renewal is processed without any issues.
5. Not Keeping Contact Information Up to Date
Real estate agents must ensure that the Colorado Real Estate Commission (CREC) has up-to-date contact information. Notifying the CREC of a new email address or phone number could mean missing out on important information about your license renewal, such as reminders or directions.
How to Avoid It:
Whenever you change your contact information, make sure to update your profile with the CREC. This ensures that you will receive all necessary communications regarding your license renewal. Updating your contact details is easy to do through the CREC’s online portal, so make sure to keep your information current at all times.
Conclusion
Timely Colorado real estate license renewal is essential for maintaining your career and staying compliant with state regulations. By avoiding these common mistakes—missing deadlines, incomplete CE records, failing to submit documentation, and more—you can ensure that your license renewal process goes smoothly. Start the process early, stay organized, and double-check all information to ensure that your license remains active and you can continue building your real estate career without interruptions.