So, you want to get a job at a real estate agency? You’re not alone. According to the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA), there were over 133,360 Australians employed throughout 46,000 real estate businesses in 2022.
Working at a real estate agency is a great way to start your foray into the lucrative real estate market, but given that it’s such a competitive market, you’ll need to do your best to stand out from among the hundreds of other applicants – particularly if you don’t have any experience yet!
We’ve created this comprehensive guide covering the essential elements you need in order to put your best foot forward when applying for a job at a real estate agency.
Here’s how to land yourself a position at a real estate agency:
1. Have the right qualifications
The first and most critical part of your efforts to find work at a real estate agency is to have the right qualifications to do so. Having a real estate licence or equivalent certification is a requirement to work in real estate in Australia.
Each state in Australia has their own legal requirements for the exact qualification necessary to start working in real estate, and you should do some research to better understand what you need for your desired position, whether it’s a real estate agent or property manager.
At Entry Education, we offer comprehensive real estate courses across Australia that will allow you to get the right qualifications regardless of what state you’re in.
2. Upskill where it will make the difference
Getting the relevant skills that you’ll frequently need in real estate will not only equip you better to handle your future real estate work, but it can also help you look more attractive to agencies when you eventually start applying.
Consider taking courses in social media marketing or to improve your ability to carry out cold-calls. These fundamental skills are used in real estate work on a day-to-day basis, and having a good understanding of them will make you more prepared and capable of completing your tasks.
3. Look for entry-level positions
You’re new to the industry – you’ve got to get your foot in the door! There’s nothing to be ashamed about in looking for entry-level positions to start with. In fact, it’s advisable that you do so for two reasons: one, it gives you a better chance of fitting the position’s lower requirements in terms of qualification and years of experience. And two, entry-level positions are often set up in a way where you can receive the training and support you need from more experienced colleagues.
4. Create your resume
The secret to creating an effective resume is all about showcasing the skills and experience you have, and how applicable they are to the job you’re applying for. It should go without saying, but if you have any experience at all with real estate work, even an internship, they should go on your resume.
If you have no experience at all in the real estate field, don’t fret. Try to find areas of overlap in terms of skills with your past work experience and the real estate job you are applying for, and place more emphasis on them.
5. Personalise your cover letter
While your resume is a brief summary of your professional experience, your cover letter is where you can highlight more of your selected skillset. Tailor your cover letter to the agency you are applying to, and make sure to address the key points they are looking for as listed in the position to give yourself the best chance of getting an interview.
6. Apply with agencies that you’d love to work for
Do your research on the agencies that you are applying for to better understand how they work and whether you will like working with them. Ideally, you should focus your efforts on applying with agencies that you would love to work for, instead of applying for every job opening that you see in the market.
7. Practice the interviewing process
Job interviews are a scary part of the process for some and it’s normal to get nervous for it. To help build your own confidence, consider practicing the interview process with a friend or family member with them asking the typical questions that the real estate agency may ask during the interview. Focus on preparing what you want to say about yourself and prepare a few questions about the job to get more information about it.
8. Be resilient
No matter how qualified you are, there’s always the possibility that you will not get a job at a real estate agency on your first try. It’s a competitive field, and you should be prepared to try again and again in the application process to secure the job you want.
Get the qualifications you need with Entry Education
Ready to get your career in real estate started? You can take your first step with us at Entry Education by attending our real estate courses to get the qualifications you need to start applying for a job in a real estate agency. Our courses are conducted by experts and professionals in Australia’s real estate industry and provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in your future real estate career. Take a look at our real estate courses for Victoria, New South Wales, and all other states in Australia and sign up today!
