Real estate professionals often need a reliable solution to keep their license valid without active sales work. Whether you're stepping away from full-time real estate or shifting careers, an Illinois licensed real estate brokerage firm can help.
These firms offer license holding and sponsorship services, making them the ideal choice for agents, brokers, and leasing professionals not engaged in daily real estate transactions. Let’s explore how these companies operate and why they matter.
What Is an Illinois Licensed Real Estate Brokerage Firm?
These firms are officially licensed by the state of Illinois. They act as sponsoring brokers for those who hold real estate licenses but are not practicing full-time. Their role is to maintain your license’s active status so you don’t have to give it up or go inactive.
They are not traditional brokerages focused on buying or selling property. Instead, they hold your license for a low fee while you explore other opportunities.
Why Real Estate License Holding Matters
Many professionals earn their license for personal investment use or plans. However, the real estate industry requires an active license to engage in most activities. Letting your license expire or become inactive can cost you time and money later.
License-holding companies prevent this issue. You stay compliant with state regulations, meet CE requirements, and avoid retesting in the future.
Who Should Use a License Holding Company?
This option works well for:
Part-time real estate agents
Investors who don’t sell homes
Brokers in a non-sales role
Retirees are not ready to give up their license
Professionals exploring other industries
You get flexibility without the stress of full-time brokerage commitments.
How It Works
The process is simple. You pay a small annual fee to the brokerage firm. In return, they sponsor your license. You won’t pay local, state, or national association dues.
Many firms also partner with CE providers. This makes it easy for members to complete continuing education on time.
If you want to earn referral income, some firms allow you to do that too. Referral agents can receive up to 80% of commission income, depending on the agreement.
Continuing Education: Stay Ahead
In Illinois, real estate licensees must meet CE requirements to keep their license. Brokerage firms often guide you on what classes to take and where to take them.
Preferred CE partners ensure you meet your state’s standards. You won’t have to guess what’s required.
Make sure to complete your CE before renewing your license. Missing the deadline could cause your license to become inoperable.
Important Dates to Remember
Mark your calendar for license renewals:
Broker license: Expires April 30, 2026
Leasing Agent license: Expires July 31, 2026
Managing Broker license: Expires April 30, 2025
Late payments after March 31, 2025, will include an extra fee. Avoid delays by renewing early.
Referral Income Opportunities
License-holding companies don’t limit your ability to earn. You can refer clients to full-time agents and earn a commission. This lets you benefit from your network without handling transactions yourself.
Some firms offer simple agreements to help you earn extra income while you focus on other jobs or personal projects.
What Makes Inland Real Estate Network Stand Out
One example is Inland Real Estate Network. It’s an Illinois-licensed real estate brokerage firm that sponsors brokers, managing brokers, and leasing agents.
They charge a low annual fee just $65 per year and offer an early bird renewal rate of $50. That’s lower than most firms charging $100 or more.
Inland members avoid national, state, and local association dues. They get access to The CE Shop for required education. Their model is built to support agents not currently working in real estate.
The company’s legacy is tied to education and long-term license success. It’s a practical and affordable choice for many professionals.
Step-by-Step Membership Process
Here’s what you do if you’re interested in applying:
New Members:
Pay your application or membership fee
Download and fill out the form
Submit your application and notify the firm
Renewing Members:
Pay your membership fee
Complete your CE before March 31
Avoid late renewal charges
Staying organized helps you protect your license and stay compliant.
Tips for Choosing the Right Firm
When picking a license-holding company in Illinois, keep these things in mind:
Check the fees and compare them to others
Look for CE partnerships or guidance
Make sure they support referral income
Ask how they handle late renewals
Look for responsive support
Choosing the right firm can save you money and stress.
Final Thoughts
An Illinois licensed real estate brokerage firm is a smart option if you want to keep your license without working full-time. It gives you flexibility, helps you earn referral income, and ensures your license stays active and compliant.
Whether you’re changing careers, taking a break, or working in a non-sales role, this setup makes sense. You’ll save money, meet CE requirements, and stay connected to the industry on your terms.
Keep your career options open with an Illinois-licensed real estate brokerage firm. Secure your license, meet state requirements, and earn referral income while exploring new opportunities.
