Working in real estate can be simultaneously exciting and challenging. 

There are a variety of career paths you can take in the industry, from property sales and management in residential, commerical and rural areas, to property development, brokering and auctioneering.

If you're thinking about embarking on a career in real estate, here's how to get started.

What to know beforehand

Real Estate Institute of Western Australia CEO, Neville Pozzi, told WILLIAMS MEDIA the starting point is to begin working as a registered sales representative or property manager.

"Initially, you need to complete a registration course which will entitle you to work as a sales representative or a property manager for a licensed real estate agent. Get registered with the regulator Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) and you are ready to start working," he said.

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The starting point for most real estate careers is to work as a registered sales representative or property manager. This involves completing a real estate registration course at a registered training organisation, which all of the Real Estate Institutes throughout Australia provide.

A real estate salesperson or property manager must be employed by a licensed real estate agent who operates an agency. The requirements for a real estate licence are more onerous, which is something to keep in mind if your goal is to eventually run your own business. 

Become a licensed agent

Mr. Pozzi told WILLIAMS MEDIA the next step is to complete further training. 

"The next step, should you want to become a licensed real estate agent, would be to complete further training in a Diploma of Property Services (Agency Management). You will also need to have a minimum of two years’ experience working in the industry when applying to the Regulator for your agent's license," he said.

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Sharon Bennie, owner at Specialist Property Recruitment, told WILLIAMS MEDIA that if you're hoping to get into a client facing role, you'll need to obtain a Certificate of Registration.

"The first step if you want to be in anything client facing is to invest in obtaining your Certificate of Registration – it gives you not only the base knowledge to commence your career, it is a requirement for most positions and demonstrates you’re committed to being in the industry," she said.

"Just like for any other job, you need to put together a professional CV and LinkedIn profile. You should have a clear idea of why you’re interested in the industry and where you want to be in five to 10 year's time," she said. 

Ms. Bennie told WILLIAMS MEDIA that you should think carefully about who you choose to work with.

"Don’t make a hasty decision on who you choose to work with. Your choice of employer directly correlates to the kind of real estate professional that you become. Take your time to make the right decision and do your research," she said.

For more information on real estate training sessions available in your state, visit the REI websites: REIV, REINSW, REIWA, REIT, REINT and REISA. 

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