Are you someone who loves helping other people? Do you have a positive outlook, a good work ethic, love competition and working in a team environment? The world of real estate could be the industry for you.
Paul Stevens, chief executive officer of national market leader Just Property said the real estate industry in South Africa offers the chance to work and study at the same time.
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And, although there are no income guarantees, the earning potential of rookie estate agents far exceeds what they might earn in other entry-level or unskilled positions.
Steven explained, “In terms of the regulations governing the industry, one you needs to complete a 12-month internship under the supervision of a fully qualified agent and a formal qualification Further Education & Training, National Qualification Forum Level 4 Real Estate and a Professional Designation Exam Level 4.”
Stevens said the agency one chooses to do your internship with is extremely important.
He outlined four key criteria for determining which property company to join:
- Make sure the agency exhibits a creative mindset – you do not want to be stuck in a business that is still doing things the way they always have simply because that is the way they have always done them. Ask the agency if they offer a buyer’s mandate. It will give you a good idea of where they place importance and whether they are looking ahead.
- Evaluate their technology and walk away if it is outdated – the standard of the tech will tell you a lot about how much a firm values its agents.
- Your internship is a learning period, so try to find out if the agency has a strong learning and development culture. A key indicator is whether they offer intern logbook training and mentorship.
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Remembering when he first entered the property industry, Stevens said, “I had a real passion for helping people find solutions to their property needs. And that grew as I immersed myself and gained experience. I’m looking for the same ethics in the people we invite to join our internship programme.”
