Real estate agent job description
Where we source our data
Let’s get real. Job information online can often be overly optimistic — conveniently glossing over the raw bits. But when you’re making decisions about your future, you need all the facts.
That’s why we anonymously surveyed real estate agents about their job, with hopes of getting an honest insight into what it’s really like.
While we did our best to ensure respondents were Australians and verified their job titles with proof of employment, we can’t guarantee complete accuracy — or that your experiences in the field will reflect theirs. So, we suggest that you take these insights as a guide only and try to talk to people in the field before making an important decision.
Tasks and responsibilities for a real estate agent
A day in the life of a real estate agent is varied and ever-changing. There are many responsibilities in this fast-paced role, and you may be required to work on weekends regularly.
So what exactly do real estate agents do? A real estate agent duties can include:
- Listing properties, land and business for sale or lease
- Advising sellers and potential buyers of properties or other aspects of the industry
- Conducting lease inspections
- Arranging payment of rent from tenants
- Ensuring legal requirements are being met by landlords and tenants
- Communicating with tradespeople for repairs or property services on rentals
- Preparing contracts and documents for residential property or commercial property sales
- Supervising property showings and open houses
- Updating property listings on websites
- Staging properties
- Negotiating on behalf of buyers
- Conducting auctions
How to become a real estate agent
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Work experience
Apply for and get a job as an agent’s representative and gain 12 months of work experience. This is a requirement to get a real estate agent licence and needs to be completed within the three years before applying.
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Study
Completing a real estate course like a Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice (CPP41419) prepares you for working in the industry and shows prospective employers your initiative and motivation for your new career. The right qualification also gives you units of competency towards your real estate agents licence.
Check with your state’s licensing authority to determine which qualification you need to become a licensed real estate agent.
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Apply for your licence
Apply for your real estate agent licence through your local state licencing authority.
Pathway options
The skills needed to be a successful real estate agent are transferable to many other industries. A career in real estate may also spark a passion for specific areas in real estate, leading you to focus on one area and really excel at it.
Where your real estate career pathway could take you:
Junior
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Real estate assistant
Certificate III in Real Estate Practice (CPP31519)
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Buyer’s agent
Certificate III in Real Estate Practice (CPP31519)
-
Assistant property manager
Certificate III in Property Services (Agency) (CPP30211)
Mid
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Facilities manager
-
Property manager
-
Real estate agent
-
Strata manager
Certificate IV in Strata Community Management (CPP40516)
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Real estate auctioneer
Senior
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Real estate agency manager
Explore related qualifications
An accredited course provided by TAFE or an RTO (registered training organisation) is an important step when starting a career in real estate. With flexible learning options, self-paced study modes and payment assistance available via the government, studying for a rewarding career in real estate is easier than ever.
So what qualifications do you need to be a real estate agent in Australia?
Real estate certification can come from many starting points. Some people may gain real estate qualifications then find their first job. Others may gain related work in the industry to get their foot in the door — allowing them to access opportunities to grow and learn, and gain qualifications later.
Certificate IV in Property Real Estate
A course like a Cert IV in Real Estate provides learners with the real estate training required to work for a licensed real estate agency and undertake a comprehensive range of tasks and responsibilities.
This qualification is for people who wish to work in residential and commercial property, including business broking and stock and station transactions.
The average duration of this course is one year and can be completed online or on campus.
This course is eligible for JobTrainer funding which may cover all or part of the course fees for learners that meet the requirements.
*check with your state’s real estate licensing authority to view the education requirements and any changes to policies.
3 providers offer this course
Real Estate Certificate
This Real Estate Certificate provides all you need to know about the real estate industry. It provides you with the knowledge and skills to hit the ground running in your new career.
This course is delivered online in 10 modules. You can start anytime and learn at your own pace. Interest-free payment plans are available from $15 a week for eligible learners.
1 providers offer this course
Property Management Fast Track Program
A training package like the Property Management Fast Track Program allows you to learn the skills you need to work in property management.
This course is self-paced, and its ten modules are delivered entirely online. Eligible learners can pay course fees via an interest-free payment plan at $15 a week.
1 providers offer this course
Related subjects
Jobs in direct communication with the public that require good communication, organisational and time management skills aren’t limited to real estate. When considering a new career, the world is your oyster.
Related articles
By now, you should have a good idea if a role in real estate is right for you. With a vast catalogue of industry-based articles, resources and how-to guides, you can access what you need to get your career underway.
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Read MoreReviews
How we collect reviews
Reviews are from Australian workers with this job title or a very closely related one.
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Share your thoughts and help people decide if this job is right for them.
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Sarah
Nov 04 2021A social, fun career that is fast-faced and has endless opportunities.
What are the best parts of the job?
I thoroughly enjoy being able to help others - being able to assist people in finding their dream home is incredibly rewarding. I love how social the job is, we are always meeting new people and creating strong, professional relationships with clients. The career can be incredibly high-paced, but this means there's endless amounts of learning opportunities and career progression.
What's the most challenging part?
The most challenging part about the job is the consistent conflict resolution. You are the person in the middle of the conversation, so there can be a lot of back-and-forth and mediation.
Stephanie
Nov 04 2021It's very social.
What are the best parts of the job?
This job involves a lot of talking to people, which is really enjoyable if you're a social person.
What's the most challenging part?
Getting the communication right, and always updating clients in a timely manner.
Zachary
Nov 04 2021Enjoyable but high-pressure.
What are the best parts of the job?
Meeting the people who's properties I will sell for them.
What's the most challenging part?
Reaching the expected sales target can be stressful.
