June 2026
Most real estate and property management businesses are required to register with both the Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA) and the Oregon Secretary of State. The name registered with OREA must exactly match the name on file with the Secretary of State.
Managing principal brokers and property managers responsible for a registered business name (RBN) must ensure that both registrations are kept current.
Exceptions to Corporation Division Registration
The OREA does not require a sole proprietor who conducts professional real estate activity under their legal name to be registered with the Oregon Secretary of State. Registration with the Secretary of State is only necessary when a sole proprietor uses an assumed business name or a fictitious name as outlined in ORS 648.005(6). For additional information, contact the Secretary of State at (503) 986-2200.
All sole proprietors conducting professional real estate activity in Oregon must register their legal name as a Registered Business Name (RBN) with OREA.
Consequences of an Unregistered RBN
If OREA determines that an RBN has not registered or maintained with the Secretary of State, OREA may take administrative action against the managing principal broker or property manager responsible for the RBN.