Have you ever considered a career in Real Estate?
The Real Estate industry is a major employment sector in Australia. When you think of roles within a real estate agency, most people think of:
- Real Estate Sales Agents
- Property Managers
But, there are other new and emerging roles that offer excellent career options.
A real estate sales career is suited to people who are strong influencers with confident communication skills and who have a background in customer service. The big question is whether it is possible to start in the industry as a complete newcomer and achieve success. In some cases – yes, but it is not an easy task and most people will take a good year to find their feet, build their networks and master the art of obtaining listings before they start to earn a decent income. If you are interested in a career in real estate sales, it may be worth considering starting out as a Business Development Manager (BDM) or as a Sales Associate. Both of these roles will require inherent sales and communication ability, but they generally don’t have the same level of pressure. As a BDM you are selling the Property Management services of an Agency rather than selling yourself. This makes it easier for someone new to the industry who does not have a track record of real estate sales. Stepping into this role will allow you to become familiar with Agency practice, terminology, compliance requirements AND help you build a network of investors that could become your future clients if you transitioned into a sales role. A Sales Associate is someone who supports a lead Sales Agent and works on their behalf in a team. Again – this is a great training ground before stepping up into a Sales Agent’s role in your own right.
Other career options in Real Estate include:
- Buyer Agent – someone who is commissioned by Buyers to help identify, advise on and negotiate properties for purchase.
- Property Manager – a person who looks after an investor’s asset. Property Management roles can differ from Agency to Agency. Some Property Managers look after the whole cycle from listing the property to finding tenants, leasing and managing the Tenancy, while others might only perform selected tasks.
- Marketing – working with Agency Principals to develop marketing collateral for all Agency Departments. Writing copy, co-ordinating printing, web-design and press releases.
- Administration – preparing contracts, keeping and maintaining databases, monitoring compliance and dealing with accounting matters including trust account reconciliation.
If you are considering a career in Real Estate go to your State Real Estate Institute’s website and check out the legal and educational requirements to work in the industry. In most States in Australia Sales Agents and Property Managers need to have a base level of education and gain a certificate of Registration from the industry regulator prior to commencing work. You will also find an array of Career information nights run by different Agencies, colleges and Franchise groups that can help inform you of the best career options.
If you do decide on a career in Real Estate – Good Luck! It’s a great industry that will keep you challenged and engaged.
