does something have to exist to be real

No, because the words don't fit together that way.

The word "real" is very specific, if something is "real" that means it exists as a verified object.

"Exist" is a lot broader. It refers to anything and everything that occurs, whether in reality or inside someone's mind.

So I would say that something does have to exist to be real, but that doesn't necessarily mean that all existing things are real.

No. Sometimes the most real things exist only in your mind.

No.Absolutely not.Something may not exist, but the thoughts and feelings it inspires are real.The belief is real.
Take Santa Clause doesnt exist, but he is real.The thought is real,the inspiration is real, the joyous feeling is real,The men who get in suits to feed little kids imagination are real. Hope that helped.

i say no becasue well somtimes love isnt real yet it exist somtimes you think stuff in your mind its not real et it does exist:)

not really...

"I think therefore I am,"

“Of course it’s all happening in your head, but why should that make it any less real?” ~ Albus Dumbledore