While there aren't any degree programs
specifically for escrow officers seeking training, pertinent information
is typically covered in a certificate or associate degree program in
real estate. Escrow officer is a niche career field in real estate
usually requiring some formal education and on-the-job training. For
students unable to relocate or currently employed, certificate and
associate degree programs in real estate are available online.
Overview of Online Real Estate Certificate Programs
Students can obtain the necessary skills and knowledge leading to a
career as an escrow officer through a broader certificate program in
real estate. Escrow officers liaise between buyers and sellers to ensure
all financial and legal obligations are fulfilled before funds change
hands and a property becomes occupied, and it's these financial and
legal obligations that are explored in real estate certificate programs.
Students gain a broad overview of how property is bought and sold,
including marketing, investment, financing, appraisal and property
management. Programs also explore the role and responsibilities of sales
people and brokers in the process of buying and selling real estate.
Certificate programs in real estate can often be completed in less
than a year. Online programs are available for students unable to
relocate for school or currently employed. Students need a computer and
Internet access. Students usually use an online course management
system, view presentations online and communicate with instructors by
e-mail.
List of Courses in Real Estate
Escrow officers must be versed in applicable laws and legislation,
proper transaction procedures, and posses a general knowledge of real
estate transactions.
Legal Issues in Real Estate Course
This course covers some of legal issues encountered in real estate,
such as probate sales, joint tenancy, sales contracts, trust deeds, the
landlord-tenant relationship and escrows. Class discussions and case
studies are at the heart of the course.
Financial Issues in Real Estate Course
Students develop a basic vocabulary of financial terms and are
introduced to key real estate finance principles. Some topics of
discussion are money and credit sources for mortgage funds and property
appraisal.
Basics of Real Estate Practice Course
This course gives students a comprehensive idea of the everyday life
of a real estate professional. Topics of discussion include the listing
and purchase agreement, good customer service practices, handling
financial transactions, taxation, and property management.
Certificates enable students to seek basic, entry-level positions in
various areas of real estate, such as brokerage, finance, appraisal,
sales and escrow. Although a certain amount of knowledge is acquired on
the job, a certificate is usually the minimum educational requirement
for employment. Students often opt to continue education at the
associate level, which gives graduates additional depth of knowledge and
may lead to better employment opportunities.
Online Associate of Arts in Real Estate Degree Program Overview
An Associate of Arts in Real Estate is an appropriate educational
option for students interested in pursuing a career as an escrow
officer. An associate degree prepares students for careers in a few
different areas of real estate, including escrow. Common procedures in
buying and selling real estate are introduced, along with property
management, business skills and concepts in real estate law, appraisal,
taxation and economics. These programs also typically cover real estate
licensing requirements.
Students should expect to devote two years to an associate degree
program. Online programs offer students the opportunity to student from
home at their convenience. For online instruction, students need a
computer with Internet access.
List of Courses in Real Estate
An associate degree program is comprised of some core educational
requirements as well as courses specifically in real estate. Course
topics cover property management, basic real estate business practices
and other related legal and financial concepts.
Property Appraisal Course
Coursework introduces the theories and practices of assessing
property value. Some topics of class discussion include methods of
appraisal, residential and retail property value, market value and
current industry trends.
Introduction to Real Estate Finance Course
Students get a broad and comprehensive overview of current practices
and financial instruments common to buying and selling real estate.
Topics include private and federal real estate funding and risk
analysis.
Introduction to Property Management Course
An overview of the evolution of property management is given with
emphasis on the role of the property manager, legal and administrative
issues, and basic maintenance of properties. Students study and discuss
current examples and case studies.
In March 2011,
Salary.com reported the median annual salary
for escrow officers was $40,920. While a formal degree is not essential,
many escrow officers take courses in business and real estate. Being an
escrow officer is a unique career niche that does not offer much
advancement. Other related career fields include business and real
estate, which according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics was
expected to see a 14% growth in employment between 2008 and 2018 (
www.bls.gov).
No comments:
Post a Comment