How to Choose the Right Real Estate CE Course in NC

Continuing education (CE) isn’t just a requirement for keeping your North Carolina real estate license active—it’s also a valuable opportunity to grow your business, stay sharp, and better serve your clients. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right CE course?

At Providence Real Estate Education, we know that not all CE is created equal. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose courses that are not only compliant with the North Carolina Real Estate Commission (NCREC) requirements but also beneficial to your career.

1. Make Sure the Course Is NCREC-Approved

Let’s start with the basics. The North Carolina Real Estate Commission requires all licensed brokers to complete 8 hours of continuing education each year—4 hours of a mandatory update course (General Update for non-BICs or BICUP for Brokers-in-Charge), and 4 hours of an elective.

Only NCREC-approved courses from approved providers count toward this requirement. Before enrolling, double-check that the course and provider are listed on the NCREC website.

2. Align Courses with Your Career Goals

Elective CE hours offer flexibility—use them wisely. Ask yourself:

·       Are you looking to specialize in a certain area of real estate?

·       Do you want to brush up on legal changes or sharpen communication skills?

·       Are you trying to grow your business or explore property management, luxury sales, or investments?

Courses like “Listening to the Pros: Hot Topics in Real Estate” or “Talking the Talk: Professional Communication in Real Estate” (offered here at Providence) can give you relevant, real-world knowledge that immediately benefits your business.

3. Look for Engaging and Practical Instruction

We’ve all been in CE courses that feel like a box-checking exercise. The best courses go beyond slides and scripts—they offer interactive content, real examples, and practical takeaways.

When choosing a provider, look for instructors with real industry experience, a passion for teaching, and a commitment to student engagement. Ask other agents for recommendations, or check online reviews before enrolling.

4. Consider the Format That Works Best for You

NCREC allows both in-person and synchronous (live-online) CE delivery—but not self-paced, on-demand CE. That means you must attend a scheduled session, either in a classroom or via Zoom.

Think about your learning style and schedule:

·       Prefer networking and in-person discussion? Go with a classroom format.

·       Need flexibility or live far from a provider? A live-online course may be the way to go.

At Providence, we offer both options to suit your preferences.

5. There’s Virtue in Taking CE Early in the Year

While the CE deadline is June 10, many key rule changes and updates from the Real Estate Commission go into effect at the start of the license year—July 1. That means if you wait until spring or early summer to take your CE, you may be months behind on important regulatory updates that affect how you do business.

Taking your CE early in the year ensures that you’re working with the most current information and staying compliant throughout the license cycle—not just at the finish line.

Plus, early birds get their pick of the best instructors, times, and topics before classes start filling up.

6. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Waiting until May or June to register for CE can leave you scrambling for open seats and settling for courses that don’t truly benefit your business. Plan ahead and treat CE as an investment—not an inconvenience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right CE course in North Carolina is more than a requirement—it’s a chance to stay competitive in an ever-changing industry. The best courses help you stay compliant and improve your skills, confidence, and client relationships.

At Providence Real Estate Education, we’re passionate about providing high-quality, relevant CE that respects your time and helps you grow. Whether you're renewing your license or leveling up your expertise, we’re here to help.

Ready to take your CE to the next level?
Browse our upcoming courses or contact us with any questions—we’d love to connect.