Commercial real estate in Florida is a fast-moving and rewarding part of the property market. Florida is one of the best places to start your career in this field. Commercial real estate professionals support Florida’s economic growth. They work with retail centers, office buildings, industrial parks, and mixed-use developments.
In this guide, we will explain how to start in commercial real estate. We will also discuss the career path and how LEAP Academy in Orlando, FL can help you succeed.
Why Choose Commercial Real Estate?
Commercial real estate is different from residential real estate. Agents in residential real estate help people buy or sell homes. In contrast, commercial real estate deals with larger properties. People use these properties for business, making money, or investment.
Several reasons make a career in commercial real estate appealing:
- Higher commission potential
- Ongoing demand for business properties
- Longer transaction cycles but bigger deals
- More analytical and investment-focused work
- Greater opportunities for long-term partnerships with clients
Florida’s economic development, growing population, and business-friendly climate make it a hotspot for commercial real estate activity.
Types of Commercial Properties
Commercial real estate covers a wide variety of property types, including:
- Office Buildings – Single-tenant or multi-tenant properties for business use
- Retail Properties – Shopping centers, strip malls, and standalone stores
- Industrial Properties – Warehouses, distribution centers, and factories
- Multifamily Properties – Apartment buildings and housing complexes (5+ units)
- Land – For development or investment purposes
- Mixed-Use Developments – Combining residential, retail, and office spaces
As a commercial real estate agent, you might focus on one type of property. You could also handle a mix, based on market demand and your brokerage’s goals.
Licensing Requirements in Florida
To represent clients in real estate deals in Florida, you need to be a licensed real estate agent or broker. This includes both residential and commercial transactions.
Basic Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or GED
- Complete a 63-hour pre-license course from a state-approved provider like LEAP Academy
- Submit fingerprints and pass a background check
- Apply through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
- Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Exam (100 multiple-choice questions)
Once licensed, you must affiliate with a Florida-licensed brokerage before you can start working with clients.
Is a Special License Required for Commercial Real Estate?
You do not need a separate license for commercial real estate. Agents working on commercial deals often seek additional training. They look for mentorship and ongoing education.
This helps them succeed in this complex field. LEAP Academy offers foundational training and can help you find resources to specialize.
How LEAP Academy Prepares You
LEAP Academy in Orlando provides:
- State-approved 63-hour pre-license course
- Exam preparation tools and support
- Post-license education (required within the first renewal cycle)
- Flexible online and in-person learning options
The pre-license course covers important topics for all real estate deals. These include contracts, property rights, appraisal basics, and real estate law. This course gives you a strong foundation for working in residential or commercial real estate.
What Makes Commercial Real Estate Different?
Commercial real estate involves more than just showing properties—it’s about data, deals, and decision-making. Key differences include:
- Market Analysis – Understanding trends, zoning, demographics
- Financial Projections – Assessing ROI, cap rates, and lease structures
- Longer Sales Cycles – Complex negotiations and due diligence periods
- Larger Transaction Values – Higher stakes, more in-depth work
- Professional Clientele – Investors, business owners, developers
This makes commercial real estate a great fit for people who enjoy strategy, numbers, and long-term relationship-building.
Career Paths in Commercial Real Estate
Once you earn your license, you can explore several directions:
- Commercial Sales Agent – Represent buyers and sellers of commercial property
- Leasing Agent – Work with landlords and tenants on lease agreements
- Investment Advisor – Assist clients in identifying income-producing properties
- Development Consultant – Guide property development projects from land to finish
- Property Manager – Oversee the operations of commercial real estate assets
Each path requires its own set of skills and experience, and many professionals grow into multiple roles over time.
Income Potential
Because commercial deals are larger in value, commissions are higher. Income varies based on:
- Market conditions
- Property type
- Size and complexity of deals
- Commission splits with your broker
- Your sales volume and network
Experienced commercial agents in Florida can make six figures or more. This is especially true in busy markets like Orlando, Miami, and Tampa.
Building Your Commercial Real Estate Career
Tips for Success:
- Join a brokerage with a commercial division
- Network with other professionals (investors, contractors, developers)
- Understand market data – Learn to read reports and economic trends
- Get a mentor – Work under an experienced commercial broker
- Continue learning – LEAP Academy offers CE and post-license education to keep you sharp
Success in commercial real estate is about persistence, professionalism, and positioning yourself as a knowledgeable advisor.
Continuing Education and Specialization
Once licensed, Florida requires:
- 45 hours of post-license education for sales associates (within the first renewal cycle)
- 14 hours of continuing education every two years after that
LEAP Academy offers courses that help agents meet legal requirements and grow their knowledge. This is true for both residential and commercial markets.
You can also explore professional certifications like:
- CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member)
- SIOR (Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS)
- CPM (Certified Property Manager)
Conclusion
Commercial real estate in Florida has great opportunities. Perfect for those who want a rewarding career. With the right education, licensing, and mentorship, you can carve out a successful role in this thriving market.
Begin your journey with LEAP Academy’s Pre-License Course in Orlando. Open the door to success in commercial real estate. Whether you’re launching a new career or leveling up from residential, LEAP is here to guide your next step.
