If you're thinking about starting a career in real estate, understanding how licensing works is an important first step. In New Zealand, you'll generally need to complete an approved real estate qualification before applying to the Real Estate Authority (REA) for your salesperson licence.
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about becoming a licensed real estate salesperson in New Zealand.
Choosing the right real estate agency can have a big impact on how confidently you start your career. Look for an agency that offers more than a desk and a brand. Good training, mentoring, accessible leadership, marketing support, technology and opportunities to learn from experienced salespeople can all help you establish yourself.
Support is particularly important when you're new to the industry. Under New Zealand's licensing requirements, salespeople must be properly supervised and managed by a licensed agent or branch manager. The REA also notes that new and inexperienced salespeople require additional care and supervision while developing their skills.
At Property Brokers, you'll have the backing of a large collaborative team, established systems, marketing expertise and experienced people around you. Rather than building your career alone, you become part of a team that works together to create opportunities for clients and each other.
Find out more: REA supervision requirements
Before you can apply for a salesperson licence, you'll need to meet the REA's eligibility requirements, including being at least 18 years old and holding an accepted qualification. For most people entering the industry, this means completing the New Zealand Certificate in Real Estate (Salesperson) (Level 4).
The qualification is a 50-credit Level 4 certificate designed to give you the operational and technical knowledge needed to work as a real estate salesperson. Once you've completed it, you can apply to the REA for your licence.
The REA will also assess whether you're a fit and proper person to hold a licence as part of the application process.
Find out more: REA qualification and licensing requirements
There are two stages to becoming licensed: completing your qualification and applying for your licence.
How long your qualification takes will depend on your training provider, study option and how much time you can dedicate to it. The New Zealand Certificate in Real Estate (Salesperson) (Level 4) is a 50-credit qualification, and there are multiple approved organisations that can help you gain it.
Once you've completed an accepted qualification, you'll need to apply to the REA for your salesperson licence. Because licensing involves a formal application and assessment process, allow additional time between finishing your study and being able to work as a licensed salesperson.
It's worth talking to potential real estate agencies while you're studying rather than waiting until you're licensed. Getting to know the team and understanding the support available can help you prepare for your new career.
Find out more: REA guide to applying for a real estate licence
How much does it cost to get a real estate licence in New Zealand?
You'll need to budget for both your real estate qualification and your REA licence.
The cost of completing the New Zealand Certificate in Real Estate (Salesperson) (Level 4) varies depending on your training provider and study arrangements.
Once you're qualified, the REA currently charges $939.55 including GST to apply for a licence. This includes the application fee and applicable operational and disciplinary levies. There are also annual costs to maintain your licence. The REA currently lists the annual licence renewal cost as $724.50 including GST. These fees can change, so it's important to check the REA website for the latest costs before applying.
When comparing agencies, it's also worth asking what support they provide to new salespeople and what other costs you may need to consider when establishing your real estate career.
Find out more: REA real estate licence fees and costs
Is there a difference between a real estate salesperson and a real estate agent?
Yes. Although people often use the words "salesperson" and "agent" interchangeably, they have different meanings under New Zealand's real estate licensing system.
A salesperson's licence allows you to carry out real estate agency work for or on behalf of a licensed agent. Salespeople must be supervised by a licensed agent or branch manager.
An agent's licence is a higher class of licence. Licensed agents can carry out real estate agency work independently, operate in partnership, be the eligible officer for a licensed real estate company and supervise salespeople.
For most people beginning a career selling real estate, becoming a licensed salesperson is the first step.
Find out more: REA types of real estate licence
Getting your licence is the beginning of your real estate career, rather than the end of your learning.
Licensed salespeople need to work under the supervision of an agent or branch manager and meet their professional obligations under the Real Estate Agents Act and REA's Code of Conduct. There are also additional restrictions during your first six months. For example, newly licensed salespeople can't prepare sale and purchase agreements or advise clients about the legal rights and obligations associated with preparing those agreements until they have at least six months of real estate agency work experience.
That's one reason choosing an agency with strong training, accessible leadership and experienced people to learn from can be so valuable when you're getting started.
Find out more: REA guidance for newly licensed salespeople
