What’s in the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam?

​If you are preparing for your real estate license, a major part of the process is understanding what is in the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam. This part of the test appears in every state and evaluates your knowledge of nationwide real estate principles.

Unlike the state portion, which focuses on local laws and regulations, the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam centers on concepts that all agents must know regardless of their location.

Most students begin by researching how challenging the licensing process can be. Once you have a clear idea of the structure of the exam, you can approach the national topics with a much stronger mindset.

The goal of the national portion is to ensure every new agent has a solid understanding of property rights, financing, market analysis, contracts, and general real estate practice. These skills form the foundation of your real estate career.

Key Topics in the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam

​Below are the major subjects you will encounter. Knowing these well can significantly improve your performance on exam day and set you up for a strong start in a good real estate career.

Property Ownership in the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam

Property ownership is one of the most fundamental topics in the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam. You will be tested on:

• Types of estates

• Forms of ownership, including joint tenancy and tenancy in common

• Encumbrances

• Land use limitations

Understanding ownership types is essential because they affect how property is transferred, taxed, and inherited. These concepts apply nationwide, which is why they are heavily tested.

Land Use Controls and Regulations

This section covers the rules and forces that control how land can be developed or used. Questions may cover:

• Building codes

• Zoning

• Environmental regulations

• Government powers such as eminent domain

To better understand how zoning works at the national level, you can review detailed zoning basics provided by the American Planning Association. This knowledge helps you answer land use questions with greater accuracy.

Valuation and Market Analysis

A major part of the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam focuses on how to determine property value. You may be asked about:

• Appraisal approaches

• Comparative market analysis

• Depreciation

• Forces that influence value

Having a strong grasp of valuation helps you advise clients and market properties correctly. The exam expects you to know the principles behind valuation, even if specific methods may vary by state.

Financing Concepts on the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam

The financing section of the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam covers topics such as:

• Loan types

• Mortgage terminology

• Qualifying buyers

• Lending laws

• Government backed loan programs

Since financing affects almost every real estate transaction, this section is considered one of the most important. Understand mortgage basics from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which offers clear explanations on loan types and borrower requirements.

Agency and Fiduciary Duties

Agency principles appear throughout the national exam. You will see questions on:

• Types of agency relationships

• Duties owed to clients

• Agency creation

• Termination

• Disclosure obligations

Agency law is critical for protecting buyers, sellers, and agents. Even though states have specific agency rules, the core duties such as loyalty, confidentiality, and obedience apply everywhere.

Contracts in the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam

Real estate contracts are a key part of the national exam. You may be asked to identify:

• Elements of a valid contract

• Offer and acceptance

• Counteroffers

• Purchase agreements

• Lease agreements

• Contract termination

Understanding contracts prepares you for real world transactions and protects clients from legal mistakes.

Property Conditions and Disclosures

While each state has specific disclosure laws, the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam tests general disclosure principles. These may include:

• Material facts

• Environmental hazards

• Structural issues

• Property condition guidelines

You will be expected to know what must be disclosed to buyers to ensure transparency.

General Real Estate Practice

This section covers day to day responsibilities, such as:

• Advertising rules

• Ethical behavior

• Fair housing laws

• Working with buyers and sellers

• Client communication

Fair housing is heavily tested, so focus extra time on this category.

How the National Portion Differs From the State Portion

Many students are confused about the differences between the two exam sections. The National Portion of the Real Estate Exam tests federal level principles and general real estate knowledge. The state portion tests your state’s:

• Licensing laws

• Local contracts

• State level disclosures

• Requirements for agency

• Escrow and trust fund rules

For motivation during your preparation, many aspiring agents research what makes real estate a good career so they can stay focused and confident throughout the process.

If you are also still deciding whether real estate aligns with your long term goals, reviewing the pros and cons of a real estate career can help you make an informed decision before investing in courses.

Study Tips to Pass the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam

Preparing for the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam becomes much easier when you approach your study plan with structure.

1. Follow a reliable course

A structured course is the most efficient way to learn exam material. RealEstateU provides step by step lessons that make complex concepts clear.

2. Use practice exams often

Practice exams reveal weak areas and help you understand question styles.

3. Focus on agency and fair housing

These topics usually carry a high number of questions.

4. Review key definitions

Many questions in the national exam are based on vocabulary. Knowing the terms helps you eliminate wrong answers.

5. Create a study schedule

Consistent study habits help you build long-term understanding.

Your Path to Passing Starts Here

​Now that you understand what is in the National Portion of the Real Estate Exam, you can create a focused study plan and build the knowledge needed to pass. Having a clear picture of the topics, question styles, and national principles makes preparation far less overwhelming.

If you want structured guidance, RealEstateU provides straightforward courses and exam prep designed for busy learners. Begin your journey with RealEstateU and move closer to earning your real estate license.

FAQs

What to expect on the national real estate exam?

You can expect questions on ownership, land use, contracts, valuation, agency, disclosures, and financing.

What is the hardest part of the real estate exam?

Fair housing and financing tend to be the most challenging because they require both memorization and deep understanding.

What is the most asked question in real estate?

Questions on agency duties, property rights, and contract elements appear most often.

What is a passing score on the national real estate exam?

Most states require a score between 70 percent and 75 percent to pass, although requirements vary by testing provider.