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Real Estate Professional

You help people buy, sell and rent property, and earn on results.

Starting salary
Commission-based, often low at first
Job demand
Steady demand
Key subjects
Business Studies, Mathematics or Maths Literacy
Steady demand

What do they do?

You help people buy, sell and rent property, and earn on results.

A day in the life

You list and market properties, host viewings, negotiate offers and handle paperwork.

Skills you need

  • Selling
  • Negotiation
  • Networking
  • Self-discipline

School subjects that help

  • Business Studies
  • Mathematics or Maths Literacy
  • English

How long does it take?

3 main steps after school, usually 3–6 years of study, plus practical experience.

Study path

  1. 1High school
  2. 2Estate agent internship (PDE4)
  3. 3Registered agent
  4. 4Principal / own agency

Ways in: Professional certification (PPRA) · Work-based training · Entrepreneurship. University is not the only route.

Where can I study?

  • PPRA-accredited providers
  • University of South Africa
  • University of Pretoria
  • TVET Colleges nationwide

Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.

What can I earn?

Entry level

Commission-based, often low at first

per month (estimate)

Mid career

R25 000 – R60 000

per month (estimate)

Experienced / senior

R70 000 – R200 000+ (varies)

per month (estimate)

Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.

How to start preparing now

  • • Follow property prices in your area
  • • Practise confident conversation
  • • Learn about home loans

Try this career

Write a persuasive advert for your own home as if it were for sale.

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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.