Let’s explore the jobs you can get with a real estate license, the average annual salary of each, and the skills required to excel. ![\"\ud83c\udfc6\"](\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/15.0.3\/72x72\/1f3c6.png\")
The roles listed are ones you can get with a real estate license, but not all require it. However, having it equips you with deep, structured knowledge of how real estate transactions and processes work, which is critical for many real estate careers \u2014 even ones outside direct sales.<\/p>\n
In many real estate-adjacent jobs (like mortgage, escrow, investing, and property management), having a license builds client trust, signaling you understand the industry and meet professional standards. Those with licenses may also better navigate regulations related to transactions, property ownership, and ethical obligations. This helps jobs like loan officers, insurance underwriters, and foreclosure specialists avoid costly mistakes.<\/p>\n
Editorial note:<\/em><\/strong> All US salaries listed were taken from ZipRecruiter on April 28, 2025.<\/em><\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t A mortgage loan officer acts as a client’s personal guide throughout the home financing journey. In this role, you’ll assess the financial situation, explain various loan options, and help the client choose the mortgage that best fits their needs. <\/p>\n Acting as the liaison between the client and the lender, you’ll ensure that all necessary documentation is in order and that the loan process moves smoothly from application to closing. Your goal is to make the complex world of mortgages understandable and accessible, helping your client secure the keys to their new property.\u200b While not required, having a real estate license in this job helps by building stronger credibility with clients and real estate agents, as well as providing a deeper understanding of real estate transactions and buyer behavior.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t As a real estate insurance underwriter, you’ll evaluate the risks associated with insuring residential or commercial properties. You’ll analyze factors like property location, construction materials, and potential hazards to determine appropriate coverage terms and premium rates. Your assessments help ensure that both the insurer and policyholders are adequately protected. Having a license in this role isn’t a requirement, but having it helps in evaluating property value and ownership records.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \u200bA real estate escrow officer serves as a neutral third party who manages the escrow process during property transactions. This job involves ensuring that all contractual terms are met before finalizing the deal. This includes handling funds, preparing and reviewing documents, coordinating with buyers, sellers, agents, and lenders, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. Your role is crucial in facilitating a smooth and secure transfer of property ownership.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t You play a crucial role in the home financing journey as a mortgage loan processor. Once a client has applied for a mortgage, you’ll step in to collect and verify all the necessary documents \u2014 like income statements, credit reports, and property details \u2014 to ensure everything is in order. <\/p>\n You’ll act as the bridge between the client, the loan officer, and the underwriter, ensuring the application progresses smoothly through the approval process. Your goal is to keep things organized so that the loan closes without a hitch. Albeit the job doesn’t require a license, holding one enables you to have a deeper understanding of the documentation.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \u200bA real estate title examiner is like a property detective, delving into public records to verify a property’s legal ownership and uncover any issues that may affect its sale. You’ll scrutinize documents such as deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements to ensure there are no hidden surprises, like unpaid taxes or legal disputes, that could cloud the title.<\/p>\n By providing a clear title report, you play a crucial role in facilitating smooth real estate transactions.\u200b Improved knowledge of property titles and ownership history is one of the highlights of having a real estate license in this role \u2014 even though it isn’t mandated.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t Note that licensing requirements vary by state; for instance, Arkansas, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, North Dakota, and South Dakota require title examiners to be licensed, which may involve passing an exam and meeting education or experience criteria. It’s essential to check with your state’s regulatory agency to understand the specific requirements.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t This role is crucial in navigating the complex and often emotional landscape of property foreclosures. You’ll manage the entire foreclosure process, ensuring it complies with local, state, and federal regulations. This involves reviewing legal documents, coordinating with attorneys, lenders, and homeowners, and sometimes negotiating alternatives, like loan modifications, to help clients retain their homes.<\/p>\n This is another career wherein a real estate license isn’t essential. However, with one, you’ll have an easier time navigating property sales and legal processes.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t A real estate lawyer manages the legal aspects of property transactions, helping clients navigate the complexities of leasing, buying, and selling. You’ll prepare papers like leasing agreements, eviction notices, title documents, and mortgage contracts. While a real estate license isn’t a requirement for this role, holding one adds credibility and deeper transactional expertise.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t As a real estate investor, you’ll buy and sell properties to generate income. The process typically involves purchasing properties to rent out or renovating homes to sell at a higher price, also known as flipping houses. Some investors also purchase land for future development.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t In this role, you are the visionary behind transforming raw land or existing properties into thriving residential, commercial, or mixed-use spaces. From scouting locations and securing financing to navigating zoning laws and overseeing construction, you’ll orchestrate every phase of a project.<\/p>\n Your role is pivotal in shaping communities, driving economic growth, and bringing architectural concepts to life.\u200b Note that this is another career wherein a real estate license isn’t crucial \u2014 but with one, better insight into property acquisition and zoning regulations is one of the benefits you’ll enjoy.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t A real estate portfolio manager is like the conductor of a property investment orchestra. You’ll oversee a collection of real estate assets \u2014 be it residential, commercial, or mixed-use \u2014 to ensure each property performs optimally. By analyzing market trends, assessing risks, and strategizing acquisitions or sales, your aim is to maximize returns and align the portfolio with the investor’s goals Your role is pivotal in balancing short-term gains with long-term growth, ensuring the portfolio remains robust in varying market conditions.\u200b Additionally, if you hold a real estate license in this role (not required), you’ll have an enhanced understanding of market values and investment strategies.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t Also, some states may require a real estate license, especially if your role involves buying or selling properties. Gaining experience through roles like property analyst or assistant portfolio manager can provide valuable insights and pave the way for your advancement.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t One technical job with a real estate license is as an analyst. You’ll examine trends and interpret data to provide insights and recommendations for property investments, developments, and other transactions. In addition to observing market trends, you’ll analyze property values and evaluate potential risks. You’ll use all findings to help clients make informed decisions about leasing, buying, selling, or developing properties.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \u200bA real estate appraiser meticulously evaluates properties to determine their fair market value. You’ll conduct on-site inspections, noting factors such as location, condition, and amenities, and compare these with recent sales of similar properties. Your unbiased assessments are crucial for buyers, sellers, lenders, and investors to make informed decisions. \u200bAlthough a real estate license isn’t vital for this career, having one adds perspective on sales practices and market dynamics.<\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t Whenever you ask, \u201cWhat can you do with a real estate license?\u201d, the most common answer is to become a real estate agent. You can do this full- or part-time. In this role, you\u2019ll represent buyers and sellers as they navigate the real estate transaction process. <\/p>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n \t\t \t\t \t\t \t\t\n\nFinance, lending & insurance<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
1. Mortgage loan officer<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/strong><\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$79,825\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n![](\"https:\/\/theclose.com\/wp-content\/themes\/theclose\/assets\/images\/icons\/agent-skill-level.webp\"){kind=icon}
<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tFinancial analysis, customer service, regulatory compliance, attention to detail, and communication\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n![\"\ud83d\udd11\"](\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/15.0.3\/72x72\/1f511.png\")
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<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tou must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and obtain a Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) license. This involves completing 20 hours of Nationwide Multi-State Licensing System and Registry (NMLS)-approved pre-licensing education, passing the SAFE MLO exam with a score of at least 75%, and undergoing background and credit checks. Licensing requirements can vary by state, so check your state’s regulatory agency for specific mandates.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n2. Insurance underwriter<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/strong><\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$62,283\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tAnalytical, detail-oriented, decisive, and knowledge of insurance policies\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tA bachelor’s degree in fields such as finance, business, or economics is typically required. While not always mandatory, obtaining certifications like the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) can enhance career prospects. Some states may require underwriters to pass licensing exams, especially if the role involves direct customer interaction or sales.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n3. Escrow officer<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$58,389\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tOrganized, communicative, and detail-oriented with escrow knowledge and time management skills\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n![\"\ud83e\udd1d\"](\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/15.0.3\/72x72\/1f91d.png\")
<\/p>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tYou typically need at least a high school diploma or GED. Gaining experience in real estate or finance, such as working as an escrow assistant, is often beneficial. In some states, you may be required to obtain a state-issued license, which could involve completing specific training, passing an exam, and undergoing a background check. Check with your state’s regulatory agency for precise requirements.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n4. Mortgage processor<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$50,903\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tData entry, document verification, multitasking, communication, and familiarity with loan processing software\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tTo get started, you’ll need at least a high school diploma or GED. Certification isn’t always required, but obtaining credentials like the Certified Mortgage Processor (NAMP\u00ae-CMP) can enhance your job prospects. Licensing requirements vary by state, so check with your state’s regulatory agency to see if a license is necessary.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n5. Title examiner<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$51,098\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tResearch, attention to detail, understanding of legal documents, analytical thinking, and record-keeping\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tMany employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fields like real estate, law, or business. ![\"\ud83c\udf93\"](\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/15.0.3\/72x72\/1f393.png\")
While certification isn’t mandatory, obtaining credentials like the Certified Title Examiner (CTE) can enhance your professional standing. Additionally, gaining experience through roles such as title clerk or escrow assistant can be beneficial.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n6. Foreclosure specialist<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$57,098\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tForeclosure laws, organization, communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tGaining experience in real estate, loan processing, or financial counseling can be beneficial. Obtaining certifications such as the Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) or Certified Mortgage Servicer (CMS) can enhance your career prospects and may be required. It’s important to note that licensing requirements can vary by state, so consult your state’s regulatory agency for specific mandates.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nReal estate investment and advisory<\/h2>\n
7. Real estate attorney<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>::
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$140,845\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tReal estate law expertise, legal research, analytical, attention to detail, logical reasoning, and problem-solving.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n![\"\ud83d\udcc4\"](\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/15.0.3\/72x72\/1f4c4.png\")
You’ll also perform title searches to confirm property ownership and address all legal concerns while representing tenants, buyers, and sellers.<\/p>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tYou\u2019ll need a bachelor\u2019s degree in pre-law, complete law school to earn a Juris Doctor degree, and then pass your state\u2019s bar exam. In some states, lawyers can skip prelicensing education to earn a real estate license.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n8. Real estate investor<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
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\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$86,796\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tMarket research and risk assessment\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tWhile it may be true that you don\u2019t need a real estate license to be an investor, you should still get a license to make real money doing it. When you\u2019re an investor with a real estate license, you can represent yourself in the sale of your properties, saving you upward of 6% (the typical commission for residential real estate sales). In addition, you can represent yourself in the purchase of real estate, allowing you to either pocket the commission or negotiate it off the top of the sales price.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![](\"https:\/\/theclose.com\/wp-content\/themes\/theclose\/assets\/images\/icons\/helpful-resource.webp\"){kind=icon}
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\n\t\t\tRelated resource:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tHow To Invest in Real Estate<\/a>\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n9. Real estate developer<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$84,748\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tProject management, financial modeling, negotiation, and knowledge of zoning laws\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tTo launch a dynamic career, a bachelor’s degree in fields such as real estate, finance, urban planning, or construction management is often beneficial. Also, obtaining a real estate license can enhance credibility. Note that licensing requirements vary by state, so check your local real estate commission for compliance.\u200b\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n10. Real estate portfolio manager<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>::
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$84,102\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tAsset management, financial analysis, strategic planning, communication, and market research\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n![\"\ud83d\udcc8\"](\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/15.0.3\/72x72\/1f4c8.png\")
. <\/p>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tYou’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in fields like real estate, finance, or business administration. Though not always mandatory, obtaining certifications such as the Certified Property Manager (CPM) can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n11. Real estate analyst<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>::
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$71,579\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tMarket research, analytical, and data analysis\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tIf you love finance and economics and want to work in this role, you must gain relevant experience in real estate firms or financial institutions. Staying informed about market trends and the economic climate would be best.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n12. Real estate appraiser<\/h3>\n
\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$91,772\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tMarket research, analytical, and knowledge of appraisal techniques\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tYou’ll typically start as a trainee, completing at least 75 hours of coursework approved by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB). Next, you’ll need to gain supervised experience \u2014 usually around 1,000 hours over six months \u2014 before passing your state’s licensing exam. Requirements may vary by state, so check your state’s regulatory agency. As you advance, additional education and experience can lead to higher certifications, allowing you to appraise more complex properties.\u200b\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nReal estate sales and brokerage<\/h2>\n
13. Real estate agent<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$85,793\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tRequired skills:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tCommunication, negotiation, persuasion, and market knowledge\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
\n
<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tWhat you need:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\tThe requirements to become a real estate agent vary by state. Some only require 40 hours of prelicensing education, while others need over a hundred hours.\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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\n\t\t\tRelated resources:
\n\t\t\t<\/span><\/p>\n\n
14. Real estate managing broker<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\tAverage annual salary from ZipRecruiter<\/a>:
\n\t\t\t<\/span>
\n\t\t\t$98,791\t\t<\/span> <\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/p>\n