How to Keep Your Illinois Real Estate License Active Without Selling: A Guide to License Holding Companies
If you’re an Illinois real estate agent who’s taking a break from active sales, shifting careers, or just avoiding costly board fees, placing your license with a real estate license holding company can be a smart move. It allows you to keep your license active with the state without committing to a full-service brokerage or joining the MLS.
At Chicago Real Estate License Holding Co (CRELHC), we offer a hassle-free solution for agents who want to retain their license, stay compliant, and even earn referral income—without the overhead.
What Is a License Holding Company?
A license holding company is a real estate brokerage that sponsors agents who are not actively selling but want to keep their license in good standing. These companies do not participate in real estate sales or require MLS membership. Their sole purpose is to “park” or “hang” your license with minimal costs and obligations.
Instead of going inactive with the IDFPR (Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation), you remain an active licensee, eligible to earn referral fees and easily return to full-time practice when ready.
Review our FAQ page for frequently asked questions.
Why Agents Choose to Place Their License on Hold
Here are the most common reasons Illinois agents choose to use a license holding company:
Career Pause or Change – Ideal for agents transitioning careers, going back to school, or focusing on other responsibilities.
Avoiding Association Fees – No need to pay for MLS access, REALTOR® association dues, or local board fees.
Earning Passive Income – You can refer clients to active agents and receive a referral commission.
Staying Compliant with State Rules – Your license remains in good standing with the IDFPR, avoiding lapses and reactivation hassles.
Future-Ready – When you're ready to return to active sales, your license can easily be transferred to a traditional brokerage.
How to Place Your Illinois Real Estate License on Hold
Placing your license with a holding company is quick and easy:
Find a Sponsoring Brokerage – Choose a company like Chicago Real Estate License Holding Co that offers non-competing, low-cost sponsorship.
Complete the IDFPR Transfer Process – Use the IDFPR online portal to transfer your license to the new sponsoring broker.
Start Referring – Once your license is held with us, you can refer clients and earn commissions—even while you’re on a break.
💡 Tip: Make sure your new brokerage (holding company) does not belong to the MLS—otherwise, you may still be subject to fees.
Why Choose Chicago Real Estate License Holding Co (CRELHC)
Chicago License Holding is designed specifically for Illinois agents who want to keep their license active without the stress and cost of traditional brokerages. We offer:
✅ Low annual fee
✅ No board or MLS membership required
✅ Referral opportunities with active partner agents
✅ Simple license reactivation process
✅ Local Chicago support
Whether you're stepping away temporarily or pivoting your career, we provide the perfect place to park your license with peace of mind.
Ready to Place Your License on Hold?
Join the many Illinois agents who’ve chosen flexibility and simplicity. Contact us today to get started or learn more about how license holding works.