Complete real estate compliance checklist. Know exactly what licenses, permits, and regulations your real estate business needs. Free compliance check in 2 minutes.
State-issued license required for all real estate agents and brokers to represent clients.
Fines up to $25,000, criminal charges, forfeiture of commissions
All 50 states
Federal law prohibiting discrimination in housing based on protected classes.
HUD fines up to $21,039 first offense, $52,596 repeat offenses, unlimited damages
All 50 states (federal law)
Disclosure requirements for settlement costs and prohibition of kickbacks.
Fines up to $2,056 per violation, criminal charges for kickbacks
All 50 states (federal law)
Disclosure requirements for mortgage terms and costs to borrowers.
CFPB fines up to $1M per day, private lawsuits, license revocation
All 50 states (federal law)
Reporting requirements for suspicious cash transactions in real estate.
FinCEN fines up to $12,921 per violation, criminal prosecution
All 50 states (federal law)
Required disclosures and pamphlets for properties built before 1978.
EPA fines up to $21,039 per violation, treble damages in lawsuits
All 50 states (federal law)
Regular continuing education requirements to maintain real estate licenses.
License suspension/revocation, inability to practice, lost income
All 50 states (hours vary by state)
SMBRegs uses the business details you provide to generate a tailored checklist, suggested priorities, and tracked deadlines for follow-up.
Track update signals and reminders related to your industry. Timing and coverage can vary, so verify material changes with the issuing agency.
Use SMBRegs to organize industry-specific requirements and research questions before you decide whether to involve a lawyer, accountant, or other qualified advisor.
Organize all your licenses, permits, and compliance documents in one secure location with renewal reminders.
Most states require license renewal every 1-4 years, along with continuing education requirements (typically 10-30 hours per renewal period). Requirements vary significantly by state, and late renewals often incur additional fees.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status. Many states and cities add additional protected classes like sexual orientation, marital status, or source of income.
Yes, most states require disclosure of known material defects. As an agent, you must disclose defects you're aware of, even if the seller doesn't want to disclose them. Failure to disclose can result in liability for damages.
While not always legally required, E&O insurance is essential protection against professional liability claims. Many brokerages require it, and some states mandate minimum coverage amounts. Claims can exceed $100,000 easily.
Earnest money must be deposited in a separate trust account within a specified timeframe (typically 1-3 business days). Commingling with personal funds is prohibited and can result in license revocation and criminal charges.