Welcome!

Whether you’re just starting your real estate journey or you already know exactly what you need, we’ve made it easy to get started.

We offer REALTOR® membership and Multiple Listing Service access. You will indicate on the application whether you are applying for one or both offerings.

 

Choose the path that fits you best:

Quick Apply (for experienced applicants)

Already know your membership type? Just need the form?

Pick your membership type below and download the application.

  • Be sure you have these essentials ready (saves you from delays):

    • Current DRE license #

    • Broker’s signature (if Salesperson)

  • Processing: 2–3 business days. Login details follow within hours of payment.

Broker Application            Salesperson Application

Affiliate Application           Appraiser Application

New to Real Estate or Santa Barbara? Start Here

First time joining? We’ve got you covered.

Here’s what you’ll find in this step-by-step guide:

  1. Which membership type is right for you (Broker, Salesperson, Affiliate, Appraiser)

  2. What it costs (application fee, annual dues, MLS, SentriLock options)

  3. What you’ll need to apply (checklist + downloadable PDF)

  4. What happens next (orientation, training, onboarding timeline)

  5. Member benefits (MLS access, lockboxes, education, advocacy, networking)

Start Here

View the Santa Barbara Multiple Listing Service District Map to check what areas are included with your subscription.

Application Fees

We bill our REALTOR® and MLS fees separately. 

REALTOR Dues And Fees Calculator  For licensed sales agents or broker associates under a brokers license.

Affiliate and Associate Affiliate Dues & Fees  For real-estate related applicants such as lenders, painters, designers, etc.

 

Multiple Listing Service Salesperson/ Subscriber  For salespersons or broker-associates

Multiple Listing Service Broker or Appraiser Participant  For brokers-of-record, appraisers, or licensed officers

Submitting

You'll submit your application to membership@sbaor.com after completion with signatures. Turnaround time is typically 2-3 business days after submitting. You'll be contacted for your payment method by the Membership Manager. We process payments over the phone, or with a one-time debit/credit form submitted with the application. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. We cannot not accept Discover, electronic checks, or other form of electronic payment.

Quick FAQ's

What membership/subscription is right for me?

We have four types of applicants;

  • Brokers: A real estate professional licensed to run an office and supervise Salespersons. They carry the legal responsibility for the transactions done by the agents they sponsor. These applicants are adding an office within our system.
  • Salesperson/Broker Associate: A licensed real estate agent who works for a Broker. These applicants are joining an existing office in our system.
  • Affiliate: A business owner or unlicensed applicant that wants to market their business among the real-estate community.
  • Appraiser: Applicants must hold a valid California appraiser certification or license, and must be a principal, partner, corporate officer, or branch office manager acting on a behalf of a principal. These applicants generally add an office to our system, but can apply under an existing appraiser.

 

Is the REALTOR®  membership the same as MLS?

No. REALTOR® membership is your professional membership in the local, state, and national Associations of REALTORS®. MLS access is a separate service that allows you to search and list properties. In most cases, the brokerage requires sales agents to be REALTOR® members in good standing if the broker of record is a REALTOR® member. However, the dues and fees are billed separately by our Association.

 

What are the costs associated to apply?

For a full overview  and breakdown of costs, please visit the individual application types.

Application Type Application Fee Fee Due
REALTOR Membership $300 $718 in January
MLS Subscription $300 $325 every Jan and July
MLS Participation (Brokers) $300 + $800 $325 every Jan and July
Appraiser $300 + $800 $325 every Jan and July
Affiliate $300 $280 in January

What do I need to apply?

Brokers and appraisers will need a copy of their identification along with a Letter of Good Standing. Salespersons or Broker-associates need a letter of good standing from their Primary association if applicable.

  

Are the fees negotiable?

No, all fees are due upfront at the time of processing. We cannot accept partial payments.

 

What if I only want MLS access?

If you meet the requirements of our MLS, you can apply for MLS access without applying for REALTOR® membership.

 

Do I have to take an orientation class?

Yes, all applicants must take an orientation applicable to their desired service. REALTORS take a NAR and CAR mandated Code of Ethics course online, while MLS applicants have a Rules & Regulations meeting that we perform monthly. It is required within 45 days of approval. Licensing classes do not qualify for this.

 

Are there refunds for dues/fees paid?

No, once you have paid for your terms of membership/subscription, those fees are non-refundable.