With new glamourous shows like ‘Listing Jozi’ and ‘Selling Sunset’ featuring on online streaming channels, people may be drawn to the potential of choosing real estate as a career. For many years there has been a perception in South Africa that someone would only become a real estate agent if they don’t have other career opportunities.

This is simply not true! Real estate agents come from all walks of life, from teachers and lawyers to hospitality and marketing specialists and myriad other professions, and they all bring with them their own set of business skills and experience. An entrepreneurial spirit is key in this industry as confidence, focus and self-motivation are needed to succeed. Here are a few facts to take into consideration that may influence your perception and bring to light the life that you could have as a successful property practitioner.

1. Earning Potential:
   Real estate can provide substantial earning potential. Most qualified property practitioners earn commission-based income with the potential to earn more as you close more deals or work with higher-priced properties.
2. Flexibility:
   Enjoy flexibility in terms of working hours and schedule. While you may have to be available during certain client hours, you have the freedom to set your own appointments and manage your time accordingly.
3. Variety and Excitement:
   It is a dynamic industry with diverse properties, clients, and transactions. You’ll have the opportunity to work with different property types, ranging from residential to commercial, and each deal can present unique challenges and opportunities.
4. Personal Growth and Learning:
   Real estate is a field where you’ll continually learn and grow, and the required qualifications are of value. You’ll acquire knowledge about property values, market trends, financing options, negotiation strategies, and legal aspects. This continuous learning can be intellectually stimulating and help you to develop valuable skills.
5. Building Relationships:
   Being a real estate agent or property practitioner revolves around building relationships with clients, fellow agents, brokers, lenders, and other professionals in the industry. Establishing a strong network can open doors to new opportunities and referrals, enhancing your career prospects.
6. Independence:
   Property practitioners have the freedom to work independently, especially once fully qualified. While you may work for an agency that sets certain performance based targets and goals, you can manage your business and make decisions that align with your own goals and strategies too.
7. Helping Others:
   You will have a chance to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether you’re assisting someone in finding their dream home or helping a business secure a suitable commercial property, you’ll be involved in fulfilling their needs and aspirations.
8. Market Stability:
   This industry has historically shown resilience and stability even during economic downturns. People will always need housing, and property values tend to appreciate over time. This stability can provide a secure career path.
9. Entrepreneurial Opportunities:
   Real estate allows for entrepreneurial opportunities, whether you want to start your own brokerage, invest in properties, or explore related ventures like property management or real estate development.
10. Personal Fulfilment:
    For many, working in real estate can be personally fulfilling. It can be rewarding to see the tangible results of your efforts, such as closing a successful deal, helping someone find their ideal property, or transforming a neglected property into a desirable one.

Remember, like any career, real estate has its challenges, such as market fluctuations, competition, and the need for continuous learning. However, for those who enjoy working with people, have a passion for properties, and are willing to invest time and effort, real estate can offer a sustaining and financially rewarding career path.

Find out more about the process of becoming a real estate agent.