As of 2025, the average New York home sells for around $500k, up 5.4% in the last year. Whether you’re in the heart of the Big Apple or way up in New York state, now is a great time to get into the NY real estate scene.
But getting your real estate license takes time, money, and dedication, and balancing a career and personal life can be hard. To help you speed up the process, I’ve conducted a deep dive into the best online real estate schools in New York. Read on to see what sets each course apart, who it’s best for, and some tips on how to find the best-fit course for your learning style.
New York Real Estate Course Comparison
 |  |  |  |  | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $329–$609 | $239–$469 | $339–$655 | $379–$909 | $59-$99 |
| Discounts | Save 50% | Save 20% | Save 40% | Save $50 | Save 20% |
| Course Format | Self-paced or livestream | Self-paced or livestream | Self-paced | Live or self-paced | Self-paced (exam prep only) |
| Course Length | 77 hours | 77 hours | 77 hours | 77 hours | 1 week to 3 months |
| Exam Prep Included |  (CompuCram) | (via PrepAgent) | (Exam Prep Edge) | | |
| Mobile Access | Moderate | Full mobile app | Responsive design | Limited | |
| Live Webinars / Instruction | Instructor Q&A | Premium only |  | | |
| Tutoring | | 1-hr private (Premium) | | | |
| Pass Guarantee | | | | | |
| Free Trial | | | 5-day trial | | |
| Additional Career Tools | McKissock membership | Real estate mentorship | Career resources | Career Mentor Connect | Q&A sessions |
| Access Duration | 6–12 months | 6 months | 6–12 months | 6 months | 1-12 months |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Which Real Estate Course Is For You?
- Pick Colibri if you want a traditional, structured learning path with a flexible schedule.
- Go with AceableAgent if you’re looking for a modern, mobile-friendly platform with interactive features and personalized support.
- Pick The CE Shop if you value flexibility and the ability to complete the course quickly.
- Pick Kaplan if guided learning and live webinars sound like your cup of tea.
- Go with PrepAgent if you just need some additional study materials and already have your licensing exam set up.
- Snag CompuCram if you want supplemental prep, but PrepAgent isn’t your style.
1. Colibri Real Estate: The Best Overall Option
What to Expect
Colibri Real Estate offers one of the most flexible learning paths available for New York real estate pre-licensing. Through my review of both their self-paced and livestream options, I found the course delivery to be solidly built, with a clear curriculum aligned to state guidelines. The core platform is straightforward, and while it lacks visual polish, its utility-focused design keeps navigation and study progress efficient and concise.
The self-paced experience is structured around easily digestible reading segments, with integrated quizzes that help reinforce key concepts. When testing the livestream version, I noted that the instructor-led classes added a helpful sense of accountability—an excellent feature for students who benefit from scheduled learning. Higher-tier packages also unlock access to CompuCram, one of the better exam prep tools I evaluated. It includes vocabulary training, full-length mock exams, and personalized study paths that are well-calibrated for New York’s licensing exam structure.
What sets Colibri apart is the ability to toggle between study modes. A student could start self-paced and move into livestream sessions if they needed more structure midway through the course. The career resources, including the McKissock Career Hub and Pro Series webinars, provide long-term value beyond just test prep. I also tested the platform on multiple devices—while there’s no dedicated app, the mobile browser experience was stable and usable.
“Colibri real estate was an incredible course. I finished the course in one month and passed the course exam first try. Great course for someone who has just about no knowledge about real estate.”
Josue Castillo
Colibri Highlights
- Audio lessons and downloadable content
- CompuCram exam prep is included in higher-tier packages
- Instructor-led Q&A sessions
- McKissock Career Hub & Pro Series webinars
- 6–12 months access duration depending on the package
Colibri Course Coupons
Save 50% on one of our favorite real estate pre-licensing courses with Colibri.
Pros
- Comprehensive learning with optional extras like live Q&A and audio content
- Career booster pack is available in higher tiers
- Offers a pass or don’t pay guarantee
- Frequent discounts to mitigate cost
- Self-paced or livestream course options are available
Cons
- No mobile app for offline learning
Learn more about Colibri Real Estate in this review.
Bottom Line
Colibri is ideal for students seeking a customizable learning experience with options for both independence and instructor support. It may not offer the slickest interface, but its educational tools are robust and well-integrated. For learners who appreciate structure without rigidity, and exam prep that’s actually useful, Colibri is a dependable choice.
Colibri Real Estate
2. AceableAgent: Best Design & User Experience
What to Expect
AceableAgent delivers a highly interactive, mobile-first experience that immediately stands out from more traditional platforms. In my testing, I reviewed the full course on both desktop and mobile, focusing on how its user interface supported continuous, distraction-free learning. The course is broken into bite-sized lessons—each featuring video, audio, quizzes, and animation—which made it feel more like an education app than a textbook.
One of Aceable’s unique features is its AI-powered virtual instructor, designed to explain complex concepts in plain language and offer guidance through challenging topics. I found the tone conversational but informative—an approach that may help reduce cognitive fatigue during longer study sessions. Its structure is intuitive, allowing learners to move fluidly between chapters without getting lost in menus or long blocks of text.
In the Premium package, I tested both the live webinars and the one-on-one tutoring. While the tutoring is relatively short (a one-hour session), it offers helpful individualized feedback, particularly for students struggling with state-specific topics. The inclusion of PrepAgent for exam prep is also a smart move, combining Aceable’s interactive platform with one of the most effective prep tools I’ve reviewed. The only real drawback is that the course’s depth can sometimes feel light in its default format, which might not satisfy students looking for exhaustive textbook-style content.
“Aceable was an engaging and incredibly helpful platform for my New York State Real Estate License preparation. I HIGHLY recommend it because it presents content in an organized way, with helpful acronyms and tips to remember longer concepts, and even jokes added to prevent it from being too boring.”
Ayesha
Course Highlights
- Fully mobile-compatible app
- AI-powered virtual instructor
- Premium plan includes 1-on-1 tutoring and live webinars
- Includes PrepAgent for exam prep
- Pass guarantee with higher-tier packages
AceableAgent Course Coupons
Save 20% on interactive pre-licensing courses from AceableAgent.
Pros
- Best-in-class for mobile learning and UX
- Bite-sized, interactive content with humor and animation
- Includes robust exam prep and support tools
- AI instructor available 24/7
- 30-day course trial
Cons
- Limited customization or downloadable content
- Live events are limited to higher tiers
Find out more about AceableAgent in my full review.
Bottom Line
AceableAgent is an excellent option for learners who value interactivity, mobile convenience, and self-paced control. It’s visually engaging and technically polished, making it ideal for students juggling full-time work or frequent travel. For those who prefer a more academic or instructor-driven model, Colibri may offer a better match.
Aceable Agent
3. The CE Shop: Great One-Stop Shop
What to Expect
The CE Shop’s New York pre-licensing course offers a well-organized, self-paced experience through its LEAP platform. During testing, I noted how well the material was structured—each lesson builds logically into the next, reinforced by real-world examples and scenario-based questions. The course avoids fluff and delivers a smooth, modular learning path ideal for focused, independent study.
One of its standout features is the Exam Prep Edge, an adaptive tool that personalizes study plans based on performance. I found it especially helpful for identifying knowledge gaps and honing in on high-impact topics. The platform also includes digital flashcards, a glossary, and bundled professional development options for those planning ahead.
While it doesn’t include live instruction, the course makes up for it with depth, organization, and efficiency. Students who need constant instructor interaction may prefer a more guided option, but for independent learners, the structure provides just the right level of momentum.
One user on Trustpilot praised the course for comprehension, but wished there were some printables to further guide their studies:
“It was a tough course which is good because it’s thorough. I haven’t taken the final exam yet but I feel prepared. If I could change anything about it I would want to have a printable pdf of all the resources that would be labeled which unit and section that you can print all at once at the beginning. I learn better by having all the resources tangible in my hand and I didn’t have a printer at home so it stuck me to only being able to do the course at work.”
CE Shop Highlights
- LEAP platform with real-world case studies
- Exam Prep Edge with personalized feedback
- Digital flashcards
- 5-day free trial
- Bundled packages with professional development
- Continuing education courses are available in the premium package
The CE Shop Course Coupons
Save 40% on pre-licensing now and continuing education later with The CE Shop.
Pros
- Intuitive and visually appealing user experience
- Offers continuing education and broker licensing
- Great for self-motivated learners who like depth and structure
- Complete the course in as little as 2 weeks
Cons
- No live instruction or tutoring
- No dedicated mobile app (mobile-optimized browser version only)
Check out my full review of The CE Shop here for more details.
Bottom Line
The CE Shop is best suited for motivated, self-guided learners who want an efficient, structured course without live instruction. It’s especially compelling if you plan to move quickly or want a bundled package that includes CE and post-licensing. However, if you learn better through real-time feedback or discussion, Colibri or Kaplan would be better picks.
The CE Shop
4. Kaplan: Best Career Resources
What to Expect
Kaplan’s pre-licensing program blends live instruction with a robust curriculum, making it one of the most supportive environments I tested. The live online classes were led by experienced instructors who delivered in-depth explanations with clarity and patience, especially around New York-specific laws. For students who value structure, this format brings a classroom feel to an online setting.
Beyond the coursework, Kaplan includes standout career-building tools like Career Mentor Connect and interactive study groups. These extras add long-term value, giving learners not just test prep but also real-world insights on building a successful real estate career. I tested both the standard and premium tiers and found them well-designed for different types of learners.
The platform itself leans more traditional and lacks some of the visual flair found in newer tools like AceableAgent. And while the 6-month access window requires commitment, it’s also a strong motivator to stay on pace.
A common sentiment on Trustpilot is that the course itself is good, but students felt rushed with the 6-month access length.
“The course is great, but the length of time to complete it needs to be longer, especially when you sign up for multiple courses at the same time.”
Kaplan Course Highlights
- Choose between self-paced or live online formats
- Interactive Study Groups and Practice QBank
- Access to Career Mentor Connect
- Six-month course access
- Textbooks are available in physical and digital formats
Kaplan Course Coupons
Save $50 on Kaplan’s huge library of real estate courses and career resources.
Pros
- Flexible learning formats (live or self-paced)
- Great for structured learners who want accountability
- Strong national reputation and expert faculty
- Pass guarantee
Cons
- Some content may feel dense or traditional
- Less modern in terms of UI/UX
- Some users wanted more than 6 months of access
Click here for a detailed review of Kaplan Real Estate.
Bottom Line
Kaplan is best suited for students who learn best in a structured, instructor-led environment. The live sessions and career support tools provide value beyond the license exam, making this a strong choice for those thinking long-term. If design and flexibility matter more to you, however, AceableAgent or The CE Shop might be a better fit.
Kaplan
5. PrepAgent: Best Standalone Exam Prep
What to Expect
PrepAgent delivers focused, high-impact exam prep, making it one of the most valuable tools I reviewed. The platform includes live webinars, topic-specific videos, practice exams, and interactive flashcards, all built around actual licensing exam content. I joined several live sessions during testing and found the instructors to be both energetic and precise, offering strategies that truly elevate student confidence.
The flexibility of subscription tiers—from weekly crash prep to annual access—makes it adaptable to every prep timeline. What impressed me most was the clarity and usability of each tool. Whether you’re brushing up on real estate math or reviewing terminology, the content is both easy to follow and closely aligned to state exam standards.
While it doesn’t fulfill the full 77-hour course requirement, that’s by design—it’s meant to complement, not replace. As a reviewer, I’d rank it among the most effective supplemental tools for test-day success.
PrepAgent Highlights
- Live and recorded webinars on tricky exam topics
- Personalized progress reports
- Flashcards, audio lessons, and practice exams
- Private tutoring is available at an additional cost
- Money-back guarantee if unsatisfied
PrepAgent Course Coupons
Save 20% on everything you need to study for the New York real estate exam.
Pros
- Extremely comprehensive and digestible exam prep
- High pass rate among students
- Flexible timeline options
Cons
- Does not fulfill NY’s 77-hour pre-licensing requirement
- No structured learning path—purely prep-focused
- Short access length compared to competitors
Bottom Line
PrepAgent is an outstanding exam prep solution, especially when paired with a full course like Colibri or AceableAgent. I wouldn’t recommend it on its own, but as a targeted tool for final-stage prep, it’s among the best I’ve reviewed.
PrepAgent
6. CompuCram: Best for Focused New York Exam Prep
What to Expect
CompuCram offers a streamlined, exam-specific prep tool that’s especially effective for New York real estate candidates who’ve completed their education hours and need a reliable way to reinforce and test their knowledge. From the moment I logged in, I appreciated how direct and efficient the platform was. The built-in readiness assessment provided a baseline for where to start, and as I moved through the study tools, the system adapted to focus on areas where I needed the most improvement.
The “Study, Practice, Simulate” method really worked for me. I liked being able to drill flashcards, answer vocabulary questions, and then jump straight into simulated exams that mirrored the structure and timing of the actual New York real estate licensing test. Everything is housed in one intuitive interface, which means you’re not losing time clicking through tabs or juggling separate tools. The New York-specific content felt accurate and relevant, and the exam simulations gave me a strong sense of what to expect on test day.
CompuCram isn’t a complete pre-licensing solution—it’s a focused prep resource, and it does that job well. If you’re in the final weeks of study or retaking the New York real estate exam and want targeted, smart review, this is one of the most practical tools out there.
Feature Highlights
- Adaptive prep tailored to New York real estate content
- Readiness tracking with real-time performance feedback
- Simulated exams reflecting New York licensing test structure
- Interactive flashcards and digital vocabulary tools
- Centralized dashboard for easy, all-in-one review access
Pros
- Tailored content aligned with NY licensing requirements
- Adaptive review system pinpoints weak areas
- Great supplemental resource for a tight budget
Cons
- No pre-licensing education or hours included
- No instructor Q&A or live tutoring
- The simple UI lacks the polish of larger course platforms
- Not for beginners, better suited for final-stage prep or repeat test takers
Bottom Line
For New York real estate candidates who want efficient, content-aligned prep, CompuCram is an excellent tool to help you cross the finish line. I appreciated its no-nonsense design and smart practice structure. While it’s not ideal for total beginners or those seeking full-service education, it’s hard to beat as a last-mile study solution that keeps you sharp and exam-ready.
CompuCram
Honorable Mentions
- Brooklyn School of Real Estate
- Long Island Board of Realtors
- Manfred Real Estate Learning Center
- New York Real Estate Institute
- RealEstate U
How I Ranked the Real Estate Courses
To fairly evaluate and rank the top New York online real estate schools, I considered a combination of hands-on testing, curriculum analysis, and user experience across multiple platforms. Here are the core criteria I used, along with the courses that came out on top in each category.
Content Quality
I looked for courses that presented information clearly, accurately, and in a way that helps students retain it. The CE Shop ranked highest here thanks to its LEAP 2.0 platform, which uses interactive scenarios and real-life applications. I found their content especially helpful when studying license law and property disclosures—topics that can be dry elsewhere but were much easier to grasp through their examples.
Ease of Use
Platform design and navigation matter more than you think. AceableAgent stood out with its sleek, mobile-first interface. I was able to jump between chapters easily on my phone, and the animations and audio narration made lessons more engaging during commutes. Colibri, while reliable, felt more dated and took more clicks to get to where I needed.
Value for Money
I measured value not just by price, but by what you get for it. Colibri Real Estate offers substantial value with its tiered packages—including CompuCram exam prep, audio lessons, and instructor Q&A sessions—even at the mid-tier level.
Exam Preparation
I gave extra weight to how well the courses prepared students for the state exam. PrepAgent is hands-down the best in this category, with its live webinars, flashcards, and topic breakdowns. I used it before my practice exam and appreciated how it broke down tricky math and law questions. Among full-course providers, AceableAgent (bundled with PrepAgent) offers the strongest built-in prep.
Support and Instructor Access
Live interaction or support can be a game-changer if you’re stuck. Kaplan wins here with its live classes, interactive study groups, and Career Mentor Connect. During testing, I joined a live session where the instructor explained NY-specific disclosure laws in detail and answered questions in real time, which helped me understand topics that had confused me in other courses.
Flexibility and Access Length
Time matters—whether you’re studying full-time or squeezing in hours after work. The CE Shop and Colibri both offer up to 12 months of course access, which is ideal if you’re not on a tight timeline. AceableAgent limits access to 6 months but makes up for it with fast, modular lessons that you can get through quickly if you’re motivated.
How to Choose the Best Real Estate Course for You: A Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right New York real estate pre-licensing course isn’t just about price—it’s about how well the course fits your lifestyle, learning preferences, and career goals. This section walks you through the key factors to consider so you can confidently select the course that sets you up for success.
Course Format
Consider whether you prefer self-paced, mobile, or instructor-led learning. Self-paced platforms like Colibri offer maximum flexibility for busy schedules. Mobile-first platforms such as AceableAgent allow you to study anywhere, even in short bursts. If you’re more disciplined with a fixed schedule, Kaplan’s live classes provide structure and real-time interaction.
Career & Instructor Support
Some students benefit from expert guidance and human interaction. If that’s you, choose a course that offers live Q&A sessions, webinars, or mentorship programs. Kaplan and Colibri offer live instructor support and Q&A, while AceableAgent Premium includes an hour of 1-on-1 tutoring and live webinars five times per week.
Access Length
Do you already know you like to take your time and pace out material slowly, or are you the type to speed-run? You’ll want to choose a course that gives you enough time to complete the curriculum. Most providers offer access for 6 months, but some (like Colibri and The CE Shop) offer up to 12 months on premium plans. Longer access can ease the pressure if you’re working full-time or juggling other responsibilities.
Adaptive Learning
Adaptive learning platforms adjust content based on your performance and weak spots. The CE Shop uses this in their Exam Prep Edge, giving you detailed feedback to focus your study. AceableAgent also features an AI-powered virtual instructor for more interactive guidance.
Practice MCQs and Mock Exams
Quality exam prep is critical for passing the state test. Look for providers that offer adaptive quizzes, simulated exams, and real-time feedback. PrepAgent, The CE Shop (with Exam Prep Edge), and Colibri (with CompuCram) stand out in this category. These tools help reinforce retention and build test confidence.
Pass Guarantees
A pass guarantee adds peace of mind. Providers like Colibri, AceableAgent, and PrepAgent offer a money-back guarantee if you don’t pass the licensing exam on your first attempt—a desirable option if you’re nervous about the test.
Side-by-Side Course Comparison of NY Real Estate Courses
Colibri vs AceableAgent
Colibri Real Estate offers a more traditional approach, which I found effective when I wanted a structured, self-paced environment without distractions. The PDF downloads, audio content, and CompuCram exam prep felt like a solid package, especially for someone who likes studying independently and revisiting material offline. However, the interface felt a bit dated, and navigation wasn’t as smooth as modern platforms.
AceableAgent, on the other hand, impressed me with its modern, mobile-first design and animated lessons. The experience felt fresher and more dynamic, and their integration with PrepAgent for exam prep gave it an edge. I’d choose Colibri for thoroughness and Colibri’s instructor Q&A sessions, but AceableAgent wins on design, accessibility, and pacing—especially if I were studying during short breaks or on my phone.
The CE Shop vs Kaplan
The CE Shop stood out for its sleek LEAP platform and detailed explanations, which made the 77-hour content feel digestible and scenario-based rather than just textbook reading. I liked the real-time feedback in the Exam Prep Edge tool, which helped me focus on weak areas. However, it lacked live instruction, which became an issue when I wanted to clarify state-specific topics.
Kaplan, in contrast, provides that structure through its scheduled live online classes and study groups. The platform isn’t flashy, but it’s built for students who benefit from direct interaction with instructors. Kaplan also adds value with its career mentoring, which made it feel like more than just a course—it was career-oriented. While I appreciated The CE Shop’s flexibility and interface, Kaplan would be my choice if I needed accountability and wanted to feel connected to an instructor.
PrepAgent vs CompuCram
Both PrepAgent and CompuCram are focused solely on exam prep, but they cater to different styles. I used CompuCram within the Colibri bundle and appreciated how it integrated vocabulary, flashcards, and simulated exams into one dashboard. It was efficient and well-paced, but a bit clinical and less engaging.
PrepAgent, which I accessed later via Aceable Agent, felt much more dynamic, especially with its live webinars and quirky teaching style. It worked better for me when I needed to reinforce key concepts visually and audibly. Plus, the live and recorded sessions helped clarify gray areas right before the exam. CompuCram is great for quiet, methodical learners; PrepAgent is for those who want interaction and energy. If I had to rely on just one prep tool before my exam, PrepAgent would give me the confidence and clarity I’d need.
Also, check out reviews of the top online real estate appraisal schools in this comparison.
| | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $329–$609 | $239–$469 | $339–$655 | $379–$909 | $59-$99 |
| Discounts | Save 50% | Save 20% | Save 40% | Save $50 | Save 20% |
| Course Format | Self-paced or livestream | Self-paced or livestream | Self-paced | Live or self-paced | Self-paced (exam prep only) |
| Course Length | 77 hours | 77 hours | 77 hours | 77 hours | 1 week to 3 months |
| Exam Prep Included | (CompuCram) | (via PrepAgent) | (Exam Prep Edge) | | |
| Mobile Access | Moderate | Full mobile app | Responsive design | Limited | |
| Live Webinars / Instruction | Instructor Q&A | Premium only | | | |
| Tutoring | | 1-hr private (Premium) | | | |
| Pass Guarantee | | | | | |
| Free Trial | | | 5-day trial | | |
| Additional Career Tools | McKissock membership | Real estate mentorship | Career resources | Career Mentor Connect | Q&A sessions |
| Access Duration | 6–12 months | 6 months | 6–12 months | 6 months | 1-12 months |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing the best online real estate school for New York, Colibri, AceableAgent, and The CE Shop each offer standout benefits. Colibri is ideal for learners who want a traditional, self-paced structure with solid content and built-in exam prep. AceableAgent shines for its mobile-first, interactive platform that’s perfect for studying on the go, while The CE Shop blends depth and flexibility with adaptive tools and real-world scenarios.
Ultimately, your choice depends on how you learn best. Whether it’s Colibri’s thoroughness, Aceable’s mobility and modern feel, or The CE Shop’s adaptive and professional interface, you can’t go wrong with any of these top-tier options.
FAQ
It depends on your learning style, but Colibri, AceableAgent, and The CE Shop are consistently top-rated for their quality, support, and licensing success in New York.
Most students complete it in 4 to 8 weeks if studying part-time, but self-paced programs allow you to finish faster or take up to 6–12 months.
Live instruction, like Kaplan’s, offers more accountability and instructor access, but self-paced courses are more flexible and better for independent learners.
Some real estate courses include solid exam prep (e.g., Aceable with PrepAgent, Colibri with CompuCram), but others may benefit from additional tools like standalone PrepAgent.
No, as of now, the New York real estate licensing exam must be taken in person at an approved testing center.
