How to Become a Real Estate Agent in New Zealand

Monday, 06 May 2024


Your guide to getting licensed, building the right skills and starting a rewarding real estate career


Are you considering a career shift that offers flexibility, control over your own schedule, and the opportunity to earn significantly? A career in real estate might be the perfect fit for you. This field promises a dynamic work environment and opens avenues to run your own business. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you understand what’s involved and why it could be the right choice for you.


The first steps to becoming a real estate agent

Starting a career in real estate is a more straightforward process than many people expect. With the industry training and ongoing support, you can begin building a rewarding career in a relatively short period of time.


1. Complete your real estate qualification

The first step towards becoming a licensed real estate professional in New Zealand is obtaining your salesperson licence. To do this, you'll first need to complete the New Zealand Certificate in Real Estate (Salesperson) (Level 4), which is available through Property Brokers' registered training academy.  

Once approved, you’ll be able to work under a licensed agency and begin building your real estate career. This straightforward certification process is particularly appealing if you’re considering a mid-career switch, as it skips the lengthy re-training often associated with new career paths.

Before submitting your licence application, make sure you have the required documentation ready.


2. Apply for your REA salesperson licence

Once you've completed your qualification, you'll apply to the Real Estate Authority (REA) for your salesperson licence.Before submitting your application, you'll need to prepare several documents.

Proof of identityA valid New Zealand passport or driver's licence. International applicants require a certified passport copy.
QualificationEvidence you've completed the required real estate qualification.
REA declarationA completed and certified REA Form 5 declaration.
CV or work historyYour current CV.
RefereesContact details for two referees.
Name change documentsRequired if your qualification is under a different name.

Once your licence is approved, you'll be able to work under a licensed real estate agency and begin helping people buy and sell property.Interested in getting started? Learn more about becoming a licensed real estate salesperson with Property Brokers.




3. Develop the skills that build a successful career

Upon obtaining your salesperson licence, the next step is learning to operate as a business professional. The initial training covers legal and technical aspects of the real estate industry, but stepping into the role of a business owner requires additional skills.

Property Brokers’ training academy equips you to excel as a market specialist, negotiator, and prospector, ensuring you can secure listings and build a returning clientele. 




Progressing towards an agent’s licence

Many people begin their careers as licensed salespeople before progressing to an agent's licence.

An agent's licence is the highest level of real estate licensing in New Zealand. It allows you to operate independently, own or manage a real estate agency, and supervise licensed salespeople.

To qualify, you'll generally need:

  • At least three years' relevant real estate experience
  • The required REA qualifications
  • To satisfy the REA's fit and proper person requirements


To help you build that track record, consider joining the Property Brokers team, where you’ll have the support of a nationwide network of industry leaders dedicated to helping you succeed.




Another option: Become a branch manager

If you're more interested in leading a team than owning or operating an agency, another option is to apply for a branch manager's licence. This licence allows you to manage a real estate office and supervise salespeople on behalf of an agency. Like an agent's licence, you'll need at least three years of relevant real estate work experience and must meet the REA's licensing requirements.




Is real estate a good career in New Zealand?

Working in real estate provides flexibility, earning potential, and opportunities for long-term career growth. For many Kiwis, it can be an appealing career change that offers greater independence and variety than other avenues. 


You're your own boss

As a real estate sales consultant or agent, you become your own boss. The industry allows you to set your own hours, work towards your personal income goals, and build a career that suits your lifestyle.


An opportunity to expand

While many people enter the industry with the goal of selling residential or commercial property, real estate can also open the door to a wide range of career opportunities, including management, auctioneering, and property management.

These roles leverage your foundational sales skills and understanding of the industry, allowing for career growth and diversification.




The skills you need to succeed

Real estate is a career that attracts individuals from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re a recent graduate looking for your first big opportunity or a seasoned professional ready for a career pivot, this industry welcomes inclusivity. 

To succeed in the field, you’ll need self-motivation, tenacity, passion for property, and a competitive spirit. Fortunately, these skills can be developed and strengthened over time with the right mentoring and support, like that provided by Property Brokers.

Our training programmes and experienced network provide a supportive environment designed to help new agents build confidence, develop practical industry skills, and grow successful long-term careers in real estate.




Answering your real estate questions

How long does it take to become a real estate agent in New Zealand?

The timeframe varies depending on how quickly you complete your Level 4 qualification and your REA licence application. Many people are able to complete the process within several months before beginning work with a licensed agency.

How do I choose the right real estate agency?

Look beyond commission structures. Consider the training, mentoring, culture, marketing support, technology and career development opportunities an agency provides. The right support early in your career can make a significant difference to your long-term success.

How much do real estate agents earn in New Zealand?

Real estate income varies depending on experience, market conditions, individual performance and commission structures. Your earning potential typically grows as you build your client base and reputation.

What is the hardest part of becoming a real estate agent?

Like any business, building momentum takes time. Developing relationships, generating listings and establishing yourself in your local market requires persistence, consistency and resilience. The right training and support can significantly shorten the learning curve.

What does a real estate agent do each day?

No two days are the same. Your work may include meeting clients, conducting appraisals, marketing properties, negotiating offers, attending open homes, prospecting for new business and helping buyers and sellers achieve their property goals.




Take the first step towards your real estate career

Interested in exploring a career in real estate? Property Brokers hosts free career evenings throughout regional New Zealand. These sessions are an excellent opportunity to gather more information and take the first step towards a rewarding new career path.

View upcoming session dates and register online to secure your spot at our next career event.

With the right training and a proactive approach, your journey in real estate could start sooner than you think! 

For more information, explore what working with Property Brokers could look like.





Want to know more about Property Brokers' superior service? Discover the Property Brokers difference!  

Browse


Topic
Year


How to Become a Real Estate Agent in New Zealand

Read more

Are you considering a career shift that offers flexibility, control over your own schedule, and the opportunity to earn significantly?
Read More
Leigh Miller appointed as Canterbury Regional Manager

Read more

Property Brokers is proud to announce the appointment of Leigh Miller as Regional Manager for Canterbury, recognising one of the company's most respected leaders as she steps into this significant leadership role.
Read More

Find us

Find a Salesperson

From the top of the North through to the deep South, our salespeople are renowned for providing exceptional service because our clients deserve nothing less.

Find a Property Manager

Managing thousands of rental properties throughout provincial New Zealand, our award-winning team saves you time and money, so you can make the most of yours.

Find a branch

With a team of over 850 strong in more than 88 locations throughout provincial New Zealand, a friendly Property Brokers branch is likely to never be too far from where you are.