High School

Take courses in English, mathematics, computer science (especially database management), and as many business-related subjects, such as keyboarding and bookkeeping, as possible to prepare for this career.

Postsecondary Education

A high school diploma is usually sufficient to enter this field, but clerks who have received postsecondary training covering office machine operation, the use of computers, and bookkeeping will have the best employment prospects. These courses are offered by business schools and community colleges.

Other Education or Training

The Association of Executive and Administrative Professionals and the International Association of Administrative Professionals offer classes and seminars for clerks and other administrative professionals. Topics include Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, personal productivity, office politics, business etiquette, and basic administrative assistant fundamentals. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

Although there is no specific certification available for real estate clerks, the International Association of Administrative Professionals offers certification for general administrative professionals (including office clerks). Contact the association for more information.

No experience is needed to become a real estate clerk, but any experience you can obtain in an office setting will be useful. 

Successful real estate clerks have strong computer skills, are excellent communicators, and are able to concentrate on repetitive tasks for long periods of time. They also have the ability to work well with others and are dependable, trustworthy, and have a neat personal appearance.