Have you ever started scrolling on Netflix, looking for something to watch, and felt unable to decide because there are just so many options?
Real estate agents face the same problem when choosing the best online real estate school to meet their continuing education requirements.
So, I studied the courses and packages myself to give you the inside scoop. After comparing factors like price, quality, learning styles, and state availability, here are the courses that came out on top.
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Which Real Estate CE Subscription Should You Choose?
Pick Colibri if you want the best overall choice that balances budget-friendliness with actual value for your business and career.
- Choose AceableAgent if you want entertaining video lessons on actionable topics, like social media marketing and strategies for growing your business.
- Go with The CE Shop if you want the most reliable option used by the most people, so you won’t ever have to worry about quality or trustworthiness.
- Select Kaplan if you value the community and immediate feedback of live CE webinars, and describe yourself as a visual learner.
- Purchase VanEd if you want a no-frills, affordable CE option with simple navigation and frequent discounts that make compliance easy on any budget.
- Opt for WebCE if your main priority is completing CE quickly and cheaply with straightforward, one-click packages that cover all your required hours.
- Decide on Training Cove if you’re looking for a fast, low-cost way to check off your CE hours and don’t mind a dated interface to get the job done.
- Team up with OnlineEd if your state is covered and you want the absolute rock-bottom pricing, even if the content is basic and options are limited.
1. Colibri Real Estate – Best All-Around Pick
Course Overview
Colibri’s ranking on this list is due, in part, to how actionable and enjoyable their classes are, and how well their offer suite conforms to any budget. With live classes, video lessons, and PDF-style courses, I appreciated being able to mix and match which courses I wanted to take depending on my mood and energy level. Further, I found the customer service responsive and genuinely helpful; I never had to deal with someone rude or someone who didn’t have an answer to my questions.
Personally, my favorite part was how valuable the courses actually were. If you’re like me, you want to know that your time and money investment has a better payoff than just checking requirements off a list; you want to know that you’re actually moving the needle in your career. Higher tiers offer access to professional certifications (ex. Certified Negotiation Expert, Certified Buyer Agent Expert, Property Valuation Expert), which can make you a more well-rounded agent who can better serve your clientele.
Further, Colibri’s “Learning Snacks” are one of the coolest features out there. They’re basically little bundles centered around a real estate concept, like Brand Identity, Client Care, and Real Estate Investing; the Snacks include video lessons, checklists, templates, and tips. I really enjoyed honing my skills by focusing on real-world problems and solutions, and it made me feel like my time spent actually mattered.
Course Features
- Format: Self-Paced, On-Demand Courses (Infrequent Live Options)
- Course Type: Packages, Professional Certifications, Bundles, and Individual Courses
- Learning Style: Visual, Auditory, Reading, Kinesthetic
- Covers Every State: CE for All 50 States + Washington D.C.
Pros
- Learning Snacks: Colibri’s “Learning Snacks,” which are bundles centered around specific topics with bonus materials, are fun and rewarding.
- Professional Certifications: If you’re after professional development alongside meeting your continuing education requirements, some packages include complete professional certifications.
- Coupons: Some packages include significant discounts on additional courses and trainings, like receiving the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing’s agent training for free.
- Multi-State Pass: Save money and renew your licensure in multiple states with Colibri’s Multi-State Pass, helping you to organize your CE more effectively.
- Quality Instruction: The instructors are well-qualified, with excellent presentation skills that kept me engaged for hours into my watch sessions.
Cons
- Not Cheap: Colibri’s base package, which offers access to all state courses, is priced similarly to competitors. However, higher-tier packages can cost much more.
Bottom Line
Though Colibri’s premium-tier packages can be pricey, the base package is priced competitively with other courses and includes access to every course for your state, coupons, and every Learning Snack. As you move up the ladder, you unlock bonuses like professional certifications and even better discounts on high-ticket courses. I loved Colibri’s Learning Snacks, which made CE feel more useful (instead of just grinding through hours to “get it over with”), and the quality instruction made listening and learning a breeze.
Colibri Real Estate
2. AceableAgent – Most Entertaining
Course Overview
AceableAgent is a newer real estate education platform compared to industry giants like Colibri, The CE Shop, and Kaplan. However, I think that newness is one of their greatest assets, because it translates to a course that prioritizes the way modern brains learn. Upon logging in to Aceable for the first time, I was impressed by the simple yet strategic layout, the clean interface, and the attention to detail. However, what really impressed me was the content: engaging video lessons and easy-to-read resources that made collecting CE credits feel like I had to catch ’em all.
The speed and efficiency are unparalleled, and the questions were easy enough that, even if I was watching videos on a late night, I could still figure them out. And the courses? Actually useful, believe it or not. Some of my favorites, with actionable steps, included:
- Nice to Tweet You: A Beginner’s Guide to Social Media Marketing
- Be the Neighborhood Expert: A Video Course with Jason Edwards
- Real Estate Sales Techniques & Negotiation
I couldn’t find a single line in my notes about getting bored or not liking a particular class. It was just an enjoyable experience overall—and, at such an affordable price, it’s a no-brainer. The only real problem is that currently, Aceable only caters to four states (Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and Texas), so if you’re not in one, you’re out of luck. If you are a resident, however, you’re in for a treat.
Course Features
- Format: Self-Paced, On-Demand Courses
- Course Type: Packages and Individual Courses
- Learning Style: Visual, Auditory, Reading
- Four States: Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and Texas
40% Savings Aceable Agent Exam Packages
Pros
- Excellent Price: Compared to top competitors like Colibri and Kaplan, AceableAgent’s CE subscriptions are priced much lower, ideal for agents on a budget.
- Award-Winning Company: Aceable has some prestigious awards under its belt for its real estate licensing courses from companies like Fortune and Newsweek.
- Designed for Speed: If you’re more about “getting it over with” than digging deep, AceableAgent’s quick and easy style will appeal to your needs.
- Engaging Videos: Aceable’s video lessons are always enjoyable, with personable language and a sense of humor that many competitors don’t quite match.
- Covers All Hours: Packages cover all the hours you need for a single CE period, so you don’t need to pay to supplement with something else.
Cons
- Limited State Coverage: AceableAgent only caters to five states with their continuing education courses: Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and Texas.
- “Bare Minimum” Hours: Packages only cover the hours you need, so you’re unable to consume more credits and have them roll over into the next CE period.
Bottom Line
Though AceableAgent only covers four states at the time of writing this review (Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and Texas), agents in those states should give Aceable a shot. Not only are their courses easily some of the most affordable on this list, but the bundles also cover all of the required hours for your state. I particularly appreciated how quickly I could move through the courses and answer the review questions, and how easy it was to listen to the video lessons. If you want quick, easy, and cheap, I think Aceable is worth a look.
Aceable Agent
3. The CE Shop – Most Popular
Course Overview
The CE Shop is arguably the most popular CE provider out there for real estate agents and brokers alike. They cover every single state plus additional jurisdictions like Washington D.C. Further, the pricing structure makes it affordable for most agents. So, if you don’t want to wade through the courses and make sure they have your state at a good price, and Colibri isn’t matching your vibe, The CE Shop could be a great fit.
“I really like the CE shop, it’s where I take nearly all of my CE. Have a few friends who used it for licensing and liked it as well.”
u/Young_Denver
It’s worth noting that The CE Shop is nothing fancy. You’re not getting access to as many interactive activities as you would with something like Aceable, and some users have reported that the design feels a little outdated. That said, The CE Shop is as reliable as it gets, with instant certificates of completion and automatic reporting so agents don’t have to stress as much over their own admin tasks. I personally didn’t mind the simplicity, and they made up for it with quality lectures that taught useful skills in the field. Further, the questions were easy-breezy, so I didn’t need to be 100% locked in to learn and make the most of my time.
Course Features
- Format: Self-Paced, On-Demand Courses (Infrequent Live Options)
- Course Type: Packages and Individual Courses
- Learning Style: Reading, Kinesthetic
- Covers Every State: CE for All 50 States + Additional Jurisdictions
Pros
- Most Popular: Though it’s arguable, based on my research, I strongly believe The CE Shop is the most popular option for real estate CE.
- Reasonable Pricing: The CE Shop is one of the most affordable picks on the list, with budget-friendly options for subscriptions, bundles, and single courses.
- They Do the Admin: Like AceableAgent, The CE Shop’s completion certificates are available immediately, and they report to your respective state on your behalf.
- Strong Electives: Many electives focus on actionable topics, like improving your marketing or strengthening your negotiation skills.
Cons
- Selection Varies: Some states, like New York and California, have dozens of unique courses to choose from. States with lower populations, however, don’t have as much variety.
- Outdated Design: The website and interface are a bit lackluster. While the platform still gets the job done, I personally prefer a bit more polish.
Bottom Line
Though The CE Shop may not have the polish and pizazz of competitors like Colibri and AceableAgent, its longstanding reputation and popularity make them a safe choice. Further, the pricing is some of the best out there; add on the extensive state coverage, and you have one of the most accessible real estate CE picks available. It isn’t perfect, but it does the job quickly and reliably, reducing the stressful load of meeting state requirements.
The CE Shop
4. Kaplan – Best for Visual Learners
Course Overview
Of all the courses on this list, Kaplan is the one that most consistently offers live online and video lessons in their packages, making it the best fit for visual learners. My favorite option is the hybrid course, which blends live classes with DIY learning opportunities for a good balance of both, depending on the mood I’m in. Plus, mixing up a class format can shake things up enough to get you back into learning mode if it’s been hours of lessons and your attention is starting to peter out; I definitely took advantage of the switch-up a few times!
The live classes were well-organized, the chat was active, and I enjoyed getting instant feedback on my questions. Obviously, I’m no real estate mogul, so having an expert patiently answer some of my beginner-level questions felt especially validating and rewarding. Plus, the live element really helped solidify the concepts in my mind when other viewers would ask clarifying questions (questions which I often had myself). And with 4.7 stars out of 5 on Trustpilot, it’s tough to go wrong.
Though there were a few issues, my biggest gripe is with Kaplan’s six-month access period, though this can vary from course to course. Naturally, I prefer at least a year of access, so you may have to double up to get the length that fits with your lifestyle. Otherwise, it’s just worth noting so you purchase at the right time; then, you can go in and quickly complete your requirements (and Kaplan does make this part very easy).
“I completed my continuing education requirements for my Real Estate Brokers license. Was very pleased with the course and convenience of the entire process. Also was a great value.”
Kenneth Avesian, Trustpilot
Course Features
- Format: Live Online, Hybrid, and On-Demand
- Course Type: Subscriptions, Bundles, and Individual Courses
- Learning Style: Visual, Auditory, Reading, Kinesthetic
- Most States: Several Dozen to Choose From
Pros
- Hybrid Courses: Some of Kaplan’s CE packages offer hybrid courses, balancing the engagement of live webinars with the reassurance of being able to go at your own pace as needed.
- Outstanding Reviews: Kaplan Real Estate’s Trustpilot rating, a 4.7 out of 5 stars, truly speaks for itself. Kaplan works and students enjoy their classes.
- Fun Course Options: Some of the courses included are “Real Estate Bloopers: Preventing Client Horror Stories” and “Real Estate Jeopardy,” making CE more fun and entertaining.
- Excellent Live Classes: I really enjoyed the live courses. You do have to have your camera on the entire time to earn credit, but the result is a stronger sense of community and involvement.
Cons
- Six-Month Timeframe: Where most CE packages last 12 months, Kaplan cuts that amount in half, offering only six months of access.
- Variance Among States: Offerings differ wildly from state to state, so it’s important to check what’s offered for your own to ensure it’s a good fit.
- Home Study: Some options are home-study only, meaning just textbooks—no video lessons, no live classes. Personally, I was distracted much more frequently with the home study courses.
Bottom Line
Kaplan Real Estate’s CE courses can be great, but it really depends on your state. The home study courses weren’t my favorite, but if you prefer reading over video lessons, you may still enjoy them. Further, the six-month access period could feel a bit frustrating at times. Overall, however, Kaplan’s courses were impactful, interesting, and even fun to participate in, and I’d highly recommend them to agents seeking quality continuing education.
Kaplan
5. VanEd – Best for Simplicity
Course Overview
When I tried VanEd, the first thing that stood out to me was the price. It’s easily one of the most affordable CE options I came across, especially with their frequent discounts and promotions. The platform itself is simple—some might say plain—but I actually appreciated that. I didn’t waste time figuring out where to go; I could log in, pick up where I left off, and get on with it. If you’re the type who wants a no-frills, low-cost CE option, VanEd makes that easy.
That said, VanEd’s course selection and delivery vary a lot from state to state. Some states, like Oklahoma and Colorado, have dozens of options, while others—Texas and Florida, for example—feel noticeably thinner. As a more visual learner, I found the text-heavy format harder to stay engaged with compared to providers like Kaplan or Colibri. It’s not that the content is bad—it’s just not as dynamic or polished. I can absolutely see why some agents swear by VanEd for cheap, efficient CE, but if you want more engaging electives or a modern interface, something like Colibri or Aceable might be a better fit.
Course Features
- Format: Self-Paced, On-Demand Courses
- Course Type: Packages and Individual Courses
- Learning Style: Reading
- Eight States: CO, FL, MO, NE, OK, OR, TX, and WA
Pros
- Low Price: VanEd is affordable for just about any agent, whether you choose a subscription or a single, standalone course.
- Discounts and Promotions: Though most providers have regular discounts, VanEd focuses on them a bit more, further highlighting their affordability.
- Simple Interface: While this may be a con to some, the simplicity of the platform made it easier to stay focused on the material.
Cons
- Limited State Availability: VanEd CE currently covers just eight states: Colorado, Florida, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Washington. Of those eight, only four have corresponding National Association of REALTORS® ethics classes: CO, FL, NE, and MO.
- Inconsistent Selections: States like Oklahoma and Colorado feature dozens of courses, while states like Texas and Florida have much fewer classes to choose from.
- Courses Aren’t as Compelling: VanEd’s classes feel lackluster when compared to Kaplan’s unique picks and Colibri’s engaging subject matter.
Bottom Line
VanEd isn’t for everyone, but they have their devotees for good reason. I personally appreciated the affordable price tag and frequent discounts. However, as more of an audiovisual learner myself, I struggled to get through some of the text-heavy courses. And, while I didn’t mind the simplicity of the platform, I can see some students preferring the updated polish of providers like Colibri and AceableAgent. All in all, VanEd isn’t the most engaging or well-designed, but the ease and affordability make up for those flaws.
VanEd
6. WebCE – Best “Decision-Free” Package
Course Overview
WebCE gave me the impression of being designed for agents who want to knock out CE hours quickly and cheaply—and to be honest, it succeeds at that. I really liked their “One-Click Package” option, which lets you fulfill your entire CE requirement without spending time picking electives individually. It’s convenient, and the pricing is solid. With coverage in 36 states, WebCE also reaches more agents than some of the smaller budget providers.
Where it falls short is in depth and variety. The courses are mostly text-based PDFs, with only occasional video content sprinkled in. The catalog is smaller than Colibri’s or The CE Shop’s, and I didn’t walk away from the electives feeling like I’d gained a ton of new, actionable insights. It’s not a bad platform—it’s functional, and for some agents, that’s all that matters. But if you want more engaging course formats or business-building electives, I think your money would go further with Aceable or Colibri.
Course Features
- Format: Self-Paced, On-Demand Courses
- Course Type: “One-Click” or “Choose Your Own” Packages
- Learning Style: Reading
- 36 States: Dozens of States Available
Pros
- Affordable Packages: Whether you choose the “One-Click” or “Choose Your Own” Package, you can get all the CE you need at a price that won’t make you sweat as you check out.
- One-Click: I really like the idea of WebCE’s One-Click Package, which allows you to fulfill all your requirements without having to spend any energy deciding on your electives (while saving money).
- Plenty of States: Though not all 50 states are covered like they are with Colibri Real Estate and The CE Shop, WebCE covers 36 of them (or 72%).
Cons
- Limited Selection: It depends a bit on your state, but for the most part, you’ll have <20 courses to choose from.
- Lower Quality: WebCE’s courses aren’t awful by any means, but you’re definitely not going to be learning as much as you would with Colibri’s certifications or Aceable’s marketing courses.
- Reading-Based: Though the occasional video lesson is available, WebCE’s catalog is primarily driven by PDFs and written resources.
- Key States Missing: Though 36/50 is pretty good, key states like Illinois, Massachusetts, and Maryland are noticeably absent from WebCE’s roster.
Bottom Line
WebCE is reflective of the adage “you get what you pay for.” To be clear, they aren’t bad (they made the list, after all), but I personally feel your money would be better spent on a provider with more delivery formats, more courses, and more opportunities to grow your business and career. However, if your sole goal is to complete your requirements cheaply and easily, there’s nothing wrong with that, either. Though I do feel a competitor like Aceable or The CE Shop is a better bet for that, WebCE can also help you accomplish your goals.
WebCE
7. Training Cove – Best for Speed
Course Overview
Training Cove immediately stood out to me for how fast and frugal it is. The platform is simple and straightforward, which makes it easy to jump right into the material without thinking too hard about navigation. For agents who just want to get their hours done without spending much, it definitely ticks the right boxes. I can see why some people use it as their go-to for quick CE periods.
The downsides became clear the longer I used it: the interface feels extremely outdated—think early 2000s—and the course quality is a bit inconsistent. Some topics were interesting, but the instructors didn’t always feel as experienced as those on Kaplan or Colibri. And with only 18 states covered, its reach is limited. I didn’t hate my experience with Training Cove, but I didn’t love it either; it’s fine if you’re in a supported state and just want to check off boxes, but if you care about a polished platform or richer electives, other options will serve you better.
Course Features
- Format: Self-Paced, On-Demand Courses
- Course Type: Packages and Individual Courses
- Learning Style: Visual, Reading
- 18 States: Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, and Virginia.
Pros
- Fast and Frugal: A great fit for nearly any budget with a speedy strategy to get you in and out of the “learning door” quickly.
- Ease of Use: Contributing to their quickness factor, TC is pretty simple to use; you won’t have to think too much about what to do or where to go next.
Cons
- Low State Coverage: With 18 of 50 states covered, that gives Training Cove a 36% coverage rate, which is one of the lowest options on the list.
- Very Outdated: Training Cove has positives that give it a spot on the list, but the interface feels very early 2000s, almost as if it were built entirely on HTML.
- Bonus-Free: You’re not getting certifications or coupons here, like you would with Colibri. Instead, you’re just getting courses.
- Lower-Quality Classes: I do think Training Cove has some interesting courses, but the instructors don’t always seem as knowledgeable or experienced compared to other providers.
Bottom Line
Training Cove has a few good courses, and the price is tough to beat. Plus, it’s simple and efficient to use, making it a good choice if you want to get compliant quickly. However, the outdated interface and lower-quality classes make it less of a deal, and with 18 states covered, you may not be able to get access. Courses like The CE Shop and Kaplan have more options, sometimes at a similar price point, and may be better alternatives.
Training Cove
8. OnlineEd – Best for Single Courses
Course Overview
OnlineEd’s biggest draw is obvious the moment you see the price: I found several 4-hour courses for under $10, which is nearly unheard of in CE. For agents who just want to meet requirements as cheaply as possible, that’s a serious selling point. It’s also nice that NAR ethics are included, like with most major providers.
Beyond the price, though, I found OnlineEd underwhelming. The coverage is very limited—just 10 states plus Guam—and the course variety is sparse. In some cases, the course listings dated back to 2023, which made me question how up-to-date everything was. And sure, it could’ve just been when certain laws were introduced, but the fact that “these aren’t up to date” was my first thought (rather than giving the benefit of the doubt) shows that I didn’t trust the platform very much.
The classes themselves are heavily text-based and fairly basic. I wouldn’t say they’re bad, but if you care about course quality, electives, or a more modern learning experience, this likely won’t be your first choice. That said, if you’re in a covered state and just need the cheapest way to finish your hours, OnlineEd gets the job done.
Course Features
- Format: Self-Paced, On-Demand Courses
- Course Type: Packages and Individual Courses
- Learning Style: Reading
- 11 States/Jurisdictions: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Guam, Kansas, Missouri, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington.
Pros
- Low Price: I saw several 4-hour courses for a single-digit amount, which is an extremely impressive deal. The classes aren’t outstanding, but for the price, they might be worthwhile.
- NAR Ethics+ Included: Though this is true of most courses on this list, it’s worth mentioning that OnlineEd includes required ethics courses.
Cons
- Low Coverage: With only 10 states and one territory (Guam) to choose from, statistically, OnlineEd probably doesn’t cover your state.
- Might Not Be Updated: On the website, when purchasing the course, some of the listings are for as far back as 2023, which makes it difficult to trust that everything is up-to-date.
- Low Variety: You’re not getting many options here; they essentially pick your classes for you, because you’ll have to take most, if not all, of what they offer to meet requirements.
- Basic Classes: Where other providers have fun, unique electives, like Kaplan’s “Jeopardy!”-style course, OnlineEd’s are more “par for the course.”
- Text-Heavy Courses: You won’t get a ton of video lessons here, so you’ll have to be prepared to work through large chunks of written content.
Bottom Line
OnlineEd isn’t the best choice on the list unless your singular goal is price, and you’re not as worried about entertainment value, format, variety, or relevance. Again, it’s on the list, so the courses aren’t bad, but they do pale in comparison to the depth and novelty of providers like Colibri Real Estate and AceableAgent. Further, with 10 states and Guam covered, you probably won’t find your state on the list. If you do, you could be in for a cheap CE session. If you don’t, however, you’re probably better off with a competing course, particularly if you want to go beyond going through the motions.
OnlineEd
Alternative Courses Reviewed That Missed the List
- 360 Training
- American Realty Academy
- Empire Learning
- ExceedCE
- McKissock Learning
- Moseley Real Estate Schools
- SimplifyCE
How I Ranked the Real Estate CE Courses
When I tested each continuing education course, I didn’t just look at price or popularity. I went through the courses myself and focused on the factors that actually affect how useful—and enjoyable—your CE experience is. Here’s what I prioritized and why certain providers stood out:
Course Content Quality
I paid close attention to how in-depth, accurate, and actionable the course content was. For example, Colibri’s “Learning Snacks” stood out because they go beyond dry PDFs, giving you checklists, templates, and real-world strategies. By contrast, providers like OnlineEd offered more basic, text-heavy classes that got the job done but didn’t feel particularly enriching.
Effectiveness
I considered how well each course helped me retain information and apply it. Kaplan’s live webinars were particularly effective here—when other students asked clarifying questions during the session, it reinforced concepts I might have otherwise skimmed over. Similarly, Colibri’s certification tracks (like Certified Negotiation Expert) provided skills I could immediately see being valuable in real client scenarios.
User Experience
If the interface was clunky, I noticed. AceableAgent’s clean, modern layout made it easy to hop between lessons, while Training Cove felt dated—almost like stepping back into the early 2000s. I also looked at customer support; Colibri impressed me with quick, helpful responses whenever I tested their chat, whereas some budget platforms offered little to no support beyond basic FAQs.
Practice Questions & Exams
While CE courses don’t rely on practice exams the way licensing courses do, built-in quizzes and knowledge checks make a difference. AceableAgent’s review questions were quick but well-aligned with the lessons, making late-night study sessions feel manageable. WebCE had functional quizzes, but they were more about checking boxes than reinforcing learning.
Instructor Engagement
Live instruction can make or break a course. Kaplan’s webinars consistently stood out—interactive, well-paced, and taught by instructors who welcomed questions. VanEd, on the other hand, leaned more on reading materials with less dynamic instructor involvement, which didn’t suit my more visual learning style.
Value for Money
I weighed pricing against what you actually get. AceableAgent’s low cost plus entertaining videos made it an easy win for budget-conscious learners in eligible states. Meanwhile, Colibri’s higher-tier packages are expensive, but the certifications and Learning Snacks justify the price for agents focused on career development. By contrast, OnlineEd’s rock-bottom pricing comes with equally bare-bones content.
Flexibility
Finally, I looked at how easy it was to fit the courses into different schedules and learning preferences. Colibri excelled here with self-paced options, live classes, and bundles you can mix and match. Kaplan offered a nice balance with hybrid live and on-demand classes. Training Cove and WebCE are entirely self-paced—great if you want to go fast, but not ideal if you need more structure.
Buyer’s Guide: Making the Right Choice
Not every continuing education course is built the same, and not every agent learns the same way. As I worked through these programs, I found that the “best” choice depends less on the course’s marketing claims and more on how well it matches your learning style, schedule, budget, and career goals. Here’s what to consider before you buy:
Learning Style
If you thrive with structure, live classes and guided plans can help you stay on track. Kaplan is the clear winner here, with hybrid packages that mix live webinars and self-paced content. If you prefer to work independently and on your own schedule, Colibri and AceableAgent shine with clean, intuitive on-demand formats. Meanwhile, text-based learners might feel right at home with VanEd or WebCE, though the experience is less dynamic.
Course Format
Course format dramatically impacts how engaging CE feels. AceableAgent stands out with entertaining video lessons and clean visuals, which kept me engaged even during late-night study sessions. Colibri offers the most variety, with PDFs, video, live options, and unique “Learning Snacks.” In contrast, WebCE, Training Cove, and OnlineEd rely almost entirely on reading, which works fine for some learners but can feel flat for others.
Instructor Support
If you need real-time guidance or benefit from interactive Q&A, Kaplan’s live webinars offer the strongest instructor presence. I appreciated being able to ask questions and hear clarifications from both instructors and other students—it made concepts stick. Colibri offers responsive customer support, but live interaction is limited. Training Cove and OnlineEd are more “study solo” experiences, with little direct instructor engagement.
Budget
Budget plays a big role in CE decisions. OnlineEd has some of the cheapest individual courses I’ve ever seen—some a single-digit amount for four hours—but the trade-off is bare-bones content. WebCE is also affordable and efficient for agents who just want to meet their hours quickly. For agents who want more engaging electives or professional development alongside CE, AceableAgent and Colibri strike the best balance between price and value. Kaplan sits on the higher end but justifies it with strong live instruction.
Course Access Length
Some courses give you plenty of time; others don’t. Kaplan only offers six months of access, which means you’ll need to time your purchase strategically. Colibri and The CE Shop offer more generous access periods, making it easier to work at your own pace without rushing. If you want to chip away at CE slowly or spread it over busy months, choose a provider with at least a year of access.
State Coverage & Flexibility
Before anything else, make sure the provider actually covers your state. Colibri and The CE Shop cover all 50 states and D.C., making them safe choices for almost anyone. AceableAgent currently covers just four states, while VanEd, Training Cove, and OnlineEd have much narrower coverage. If you work in multiple states, Colibri’s Multi-State Pass is particularly useful for streamlining renewals.
By matching your personal learning style, schedule, and budget to the right course features, you’ll get far more out of your CE hours than if you just pick the cheapest or most popular option. Whether you want a dynamic, career-boosting experience or just need a fast way to check off requirements, there’s a course here that fits.
Real Estate CE Courses: Head-to-Head
Colibri Real Estate vs. AceableAgent: Depth vs. Engagement
When I compared Colibri and AceableAgent, it came down to depth versus entertainment. Colibri’s Learning Snacks, professional certifications, and state coverage made it feel like a full-fledged professional development platform, not just a CE box to check. I liked being able to mix video lessons, live options, and text-based content depending on my mood, and the certifications (like Certified Negotiation Expert) genuinely felt career-enhancing.
AceableAgent, meanwhile, felt like the most fun CE course I tested. The short, humorous video lessons were engaging enough to keep me going late at night without zoning out, and the interface was fast and modern. It doesn’t have Colibri’s depth or nationwide coverage—currently, only four states—but if you’re in one of those states and want something quick and entertaining, AceableAgent is incredibly easy to recommend.
👉 Choose Colibri for robust content, variety, and career-building extras.
👉 Choose AceableAgent for fast, entertaining CE with a clean, modern design.
The CE Shop vs. Colibri: Simplicity vs. Feature-Rich
The CE Shop and Colibri are both major players, but their approaches feel different. Colibri is packed with features like Learning Snacks, professional certifications, and hybrid formats, while The CE Shop focuses on straightforward, reliable CE that works. I appreciated The CE Shop’s simplicity: easy navigation, instant certificates, and automatic state reporting. The interface is dated, but I didn’t have any trouble staying on track, and their electives were practical.
Colibri’s interface feels more premium, and the bonus materials give you more ways to apply what you learn beyond CE credits. But if you want to avoid decision fatigue and just knock out your hours in a reliable, affordable way, The CE Shop shines. I often found myself turning to it when I didn’t want to think too hard. Everything just worked.
👉 Choose Colibri for maximum flexibility and professional growth.
👉 Choose The CE Shop for simplicity, reliability, and wide state coverage.
Kaplan vs. Colibri: Live Learning vs. Self-Paced Variety
Kaplan stood out for its live webinars and hybrid format, which was great for me as a visual learner. Being able to interact with instructors and other students made the material stick, and I genuinely looked forward to the sessions. That said, the six-month access window meant I had to plan carefully to finish on time, and the offerings varied a lot depending on the state.
Colibri’s strength is in its variety and flexibility. I could pick between live options, PDFs, videos, and Learning Snacks whenever I wanted. It also offers longer access and broader state coverage. Personally, I found Kaplan’s live classes more engaging in the moment, but Colibri’s longer access and mix of formats made it easier to fit CE around my unpredictable schedule.
👉 Choose Kaplan if you love live instruction and want an interactive experience.
👉 Choose Colibri for flexible scheduling, longer access, and more content variety.
Kaplan vs. AceableAgent: Traditional Meets Modern
This was a fun comparison. Kaplan leans traditional, with live classes, structured timelines, and camera-on participation. Meanwhile, AceableAgent leans modern, with quick on-demand videos and a youthful, punchy tone. I personally enjoyed Kaplan’s live sessions when I had the energy to show up; the immediate feedback and sense of community were genuinely motivating.
AceableAgent, however, made it easier to squeeze CE into random gaps in my day. It doesn’t offer the same depth, but it’s light, accessible, and budget-friendly. If you want to actively learn in a structured environment, Kaplan delivers. If you just want to breeze through CE without hating every minute, AceableAgent is a refreshing alternative.
👉 Choose Kaplan for structure and interactive webinars.
👉 Choose AceableAgent for short, engaging, and flexible on-demand lessons.
The CE Shop vs. AceableAgent: Popular Workhorse vs. Edutainment
The CE Shop is the most widely used platform I have tried. It’s not flashy, but it’s consistent. Every time I logged in, I knew exactly what to expect; there were no frills, just clear reading-based modules and easy state reporting. The quizzes were straightforward, and I appreciated the instant certificates.
AceableAgent was the polar opposite: fast, funny, and video-heavy. I flew through the material and had fun doing it, but it’s only available in a handful of states. If you live in one of them, it’s a joy to use. If not, The CE Shop will get the job done dependably.
👉 Choose The CE Shop for reliable coverage and straightforward CE.
👉 Choose AceableAgent if your state is supported and you want CE that doesn’t feel like a slog.
VanEd vs. WebCE: Budget CE Showdown
VanEd and WebCE both position themselves as affordable CE options, but they each have a different focus. VanEd offers a very simple, no-frills platform with frequent discounts and a text-based format. It works, and I appreciate how easy it is to navigate. However, the course selection varies significantly by state, and as someone who prefers a mix of visuals and text, I struggled to stay engaged.
WebCE felt slightly more polished on the pricing side with its “One-Click Package” option, which let me fulfill all my CE requirements without manually selecting electives. It’s cheap, fast, and efficient. The trade-off is content depth. The courses are basic, and you won’t get the same level of learning or variety you’d see with Colibri or Aceable. Between the two, I’d give WebCE a slight edge for convenience, though neither will blow you away.
👉 Choose VanEd for ultra-low pricing and simplicity.
👉 Choose WebCE for cheap, efficient, one-click CE packages.
Training Cove vs. OnlineEd: Quick vs. Rock-Bottom Cheap
Training Cove is one of the fastest platforms I’ve tried. The interface is outdated, but I was able to get in, move through the material quickly, and check off requirements with minimal hassle. It’s not flashy, but it’s functional for agents who just want to get CE over with.
OnlineEd is even cheaper—some courses cost less than $10—but it’s also more limited. The coverage is small, the classes are basic, and some listings weren’t fully up to date when I checked. It’s fine if you’re in a supported state and just want the absolute cheapest option, but it didn’t give me much reason to pick it over a slightly more polished budget provider like WebCE or VanEd.
👉 Choose Training Cove for quick, no-nonsense CE at a low price.
👉 Choose OnlineEd for the absolute cheapest option—if your state is covered.
Final Thoughts
Continuing education is a chore, and I get that it’s easy to want to check out and push through at the last second. However, I think the best continuing education providers for real estate make it easy to complete your CE credits without burning out or falling asleep—bonus points if you actually learn something useful for your career.
So, to refresh, Colibri Real Estate’s well-rounded approach, complete with professional certifications, bundles around specific topics, and coupons, makes it more than just “any old CE course.” AceableAgent prioritizes engaging, fun topics taught in a personable, memorable way. The CE Shop has the best reputation of the group and has been the most popular pick for a long time. Finally, Kaplan’s hybrid options and video classes are ideal for visual learners who value live interaction with industry experts.
Now, it’s time to take action. Grab the perfect-fit package and conquer those CE hours. You’ve got this!
FAQs
Based on my experience, Colibri Real Estate is the most well-rounded choice, balancing affordability, quality instruction, and career-focused extras.
AceableAgent takes this spot with quick, entertaining video lessons that make CE feel less like a chore, though it’s only available in four states.
Both Colibri Real Estate and The CE Shop offer CE in all 50 states plus D.C., making them safe picks no matter where you’re licensed.
Kaplan leads for live webinars and hybrid formats. The interactive Q&A and structured pacing make it ideal for visual learners who like guidance.
Consider your learning style, budget, state coverage, and schedule. Colibri offers the most flexibility, while Aceable, Kaplan, or WebCE may suit specific needs better.
