How To Become An Estate Agent In South Africa & Subjects Needed

Filed in Article by on May 5, 2021 • 0 Comments

Are you looking for a way to become an Estate Agent in South Africa and you don’t know the subjects needed or even universities in South Africa where you can undergo the course? If yes, then this informative article is for you. You will be given detailed information about how to become an Estate Agent in South Africa, Universities and Subjects Needed.

What Does An Estate Agent Do?

Estate agents market and sell the property for clients, negotiating between buyers and sellers. They use their knowledge of the local property market to get the best price for the seller. Estate agents are employed by estate (letting) agencies, banks, and building societies.

Self-employment is an alternative option for experienced people who are capable of starting a new business. A large proportion of the work involves liaison with clients and other organisations, such as mortgage companies or firms of solicitors.

An estate agent’s work includes:

  • Viewing properties and taking photos and measurements
  • Advising clients about the buying and selling process
  • Valuing properties
  • Marketing and advertising properties for sale
  • Showing potential buyers around properties
  • Negotiating a price that is acceptable to the buyer and the seller
  • Arranging conveyancing (legal sale and purchase documents).

A large part of the work involves residential sales, but in some agencies you could also deal with commercial property, lettings, property management and auctions.

What Qualifications Do I Need?

A degree is not required to become an estate agent, but strong competition often makes the relevant experience and/or qualifications necessary. A degree in an appropriate subject such as marketing, business, property studies, or real estate can be helpful.

Estate agents and agencies are required by law to obtain a Fidelity Fund Certificate from the Estate Agency Affairs Board. One way to qualify for this certificate is to write the Estate Agents Board Examination, having participated in courses held throughout the year.

Another way is to work an internship under the active supervision of a principal agent or under an appropriately experienced estate agent. Some estate agencies offer on-the-job training for estate agents.

Training is also available from the Institute of Estate Agents of South Africa. Once qualified, estate agents must register with the Board as professional estate agents in order to practice legally. It is also important to attend courses on an ongoing basis in order to keep up to date with property laws.

What Subjects Do I Need?

Contact each institution for their specific requirements, but these subjects are recommended:

  • Languages
  • Economics
  • Business Studies
  • Accounting

Where Can I Study?

University of the Witwatersrand

UNISA

University of Johannesburg

University of Cape Town

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