Key Takeaways
- The Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA) regulates real estate licensees under Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 696
- OREA is led by the Real Estate Commissioner appointed by the Governor
- Oregon uses the term "Broker" for entry-level licensees (equivalent to salesperson in other states)
- Principal Broker is the advanced license allowing ownership of a brokerage and supervision of brokers
- OREA has authority to investigate complaints, conduct audits, and take disciplinary action
Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA)
The Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA) is the state agency responsible for licensing, regulating, and overseeing real estate professionals in Oregon under Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 696.
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OREA Structure and Authority
Leadership
OREA is led by the Real Estate Commissioner, who is appointed by the Governor:
| Position | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Commissioner | Oversees all agency operations, enforces real estate law |
| Deputy Commissioner | Assists commissioner, handles day-to-day operations |
| Investigators | Investigate complaints and violations |
| Education Staff | Approve schools, courses, and continuing education |
Key OREA Functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Process applications, approve education providers, issue licenses |
| Education | Set education requirements, approve courses and schools |
| Enforcement | Investigate complaints, conduct trust account audits |
| Discipline | Suspend, revoke, or deny licenses; impose civil penalties |
| Consumer Protection | Maintain complaint process, protect public interest |
Oregon License Terminology
Oregon uses different terminology than most other states:
| Oregon Term | Equivalent in Most States |
|---|---|
| Broker | Salesperson / Sales Agent |
| Principal Broker | Broker / Managing Broker |
| Property Manager | Property Management License |
Exam Tip: Don't confuse Oregon's "Broker" with other states' "Broker." In Oregon, "Broker" is the entry-level license!
Oregon Real Estate License Law
The Oregon Real Estate License Law (ORS Chapter 696) is the primary statute governing real estate licensing in Oregon. Key provisions include:
- Who must be licensed - Definitions of broker and principal broker activities
- Exemptions - Attorneys, property owners, certain employees
- Prohibited conduct - Actions that violate the law
- Disciplinary actions - Grounds for suspension or revocation
- Trust fund handling - Requirements for client funds
OREA Contact Information
| Resource | Information |
|---|---|
| Website | oregon.gov/rea |
| Main Office | Salem, Oregon |
| Phone | (503) 378-4170 |
| orea.info@rea.oregon.gov | |
| Online System | eLicensing portal |
Exemptions from Licensing
Certain activities do NOT require a real estate license in Oregon:
| Exemption | Description |
|---|---|
| Property owners | Selling or leasing their own property |
| Attorneys | Performing duties within legal practice |
| Court-appointed persons | Trustees, executors, administrators |
| Lenders | Activities related to making loans |
| Property management employees | Certain on-site employees under supervision |
Key Point: Exemptions are narrowly defined. When in doubt, a license is likely required.
What is the entry-level real estate license called in Oregon?
Who appoints the Oregon Real Estate Commissioner?