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Useful experience for real estate agents includes:

• sales work
• public relations
  
• customer service.

Real estate agents may do some or all of the following:

• advertise and market properties
• arrange and host open homes
• build relationships with sellers and buyers
• complete sales and negotiate contracts
• research the housing market and property values
• organise building inspections and reports.

Slow housing market limits opportunities

Chances of getting a job as a real estate agent are average because a shortage of houses for sale limits selling opportunities. There are still chances to become licensed, but your success will depend on what is happening in the real estate market.

There is more competition to sell houses in the major urban centres, where house prices are high. Opportunities for new salespeople may be better in smaller towns and rural areas.

According to the Real Estate Authority, 15,237 real estate professionals worked in New Zealand in 2020.

Small range of employers

Most real estate agents work for one of the six main agencies in New Zealand.

Real Estate Authority

0800 367 732 - rea.govt.nz

With further training, real estate salespeople may progress to become real estate agents or branch managers.

Real estate agents may specialise in selling residential, commercial, or rural properties.

Real estate agents need to be:

• self-motivated and hardworking
• skilled communicators and negotiators
• honest and trustworthy.