Opting for a career as a property agent is a tempting choice for many, as it offers both flexibility and the potential for substantial earnings. In Singapore, as of January 2023, there were 34,427 registered property agents, underscoring the widespread appeal of this profession. However, it’s imperative to assess the pros and cons carefully before embarking on this career path.
Over the past decade, the average monthly salary of property agents has witnessed a remarkable 25% increase. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to understand that individual property agents’ salaries can fluctuate widely, contingent upon their experience, track record, and the specific types of properties they handle.
The COVID-19 pandemic exerted a mixed influence on Singapore’s property market. Initially, the market decelerated due to travel constraints and economic uncertainty. However, it made a robust resurgence in 2021 and 2022, buoyed by persistently low-interest rates and a demand for more spacious accommodations to facilitate remote work and schooling.
The robust property market performance in 2021 and 2022 contributed to the upswing in the average salary of property agents. Nevertheless, the market is projected to moderate in 2023 due to increasing interest rates and more stringent government cooling measures. Consequently, the average salary of property agents might experience a slight dip in 2023.
In general, property agents’ salaries in Singapore are relatively attractive, particularly when compared to the average incomes in other professions. Nonetheless, it’s essential to acknowledge that individual property agents’ earnings can diverge significantly based on their experience, track record, and the nature of the properties they handle.
The average monthly salary of property agents in Singapore has generally increased over time. However, there have been some fluctuations due to market conditions.
Here is a table of the average monthly salary of property agents in Singapore from 2013 to 2023:
| Year | Average monthly salary |
|---|---|
| 2013 | $4,270 |
| 2014 | $4,600 |
| 2015 | $4,750 |
| 2016 | $4,900 |
| 2017 | $5,050 |
| 2018 | $5,200 |
| 2019 | $5,350 |
| 2020 | $5,250 |
| 2021 | $5,300 |
| 2022 | $5,350 |
| 2023 | $5,333.33 |
According to a survey conducted by PropertyGuru, the typical monthly income of property agents in Singapore hovers around $5,333.33. Nevertheless, this figure can exhibit considerable variance contingent on the agent’s experience, track record, and the specific property types they specialize in.
The attrition rate among property agents in Singapore is relatively elevated, with approximately 20% of agents departing from the profession each year. This phenomenon can largely be attributed to the industry’s cutthroat competitiveness and the protracted working hours that property agents often contend with.
In spite of the hurdles, being a property agent can be an enriching profession. Successful agents can garner a substantial income and derive satisfaction from facilitating property transactions for their clients, aiding them in buying and selling real estate assets.
Part I – The Pros and Cons of Being a Property Agent
Pros of Being a Property Agent
Flexible Hours: One of the primary attractions of being a property agent is the ability to control your working hours. You can choose when and how much you work, which provides a level of autonomy that is rare in many other professions. However, it’s worth noting that property agents often work during weekends, public holidays, and evenings to accommodate their clients’ schedules.
Income Potential: Property agents are not tied to a fixed monthly salary. Instead, they earn commissions based on the properties they sell. This commission-based model offers the potential for high earnings, especially during periods of high demand in the real estate market. Successful agents can earn substantial incomes.
Cons of Being a Property Agent
- Income Variability: While the potential for high income exists, it comes with significant variability. Property markets can fluctuate, leading to periods of slower sales and lower commissions. Agents must be financially prepared to handle inconsistent income streams.
- Competitive Industry: The real estate industry is highly competitive, with numerous agents vying for clients and property listings. Standing out and building a client base can be challenging, particularly for newcomers to the field.
- Continuous Learning: Property agents need to stay updated on changing market trends, regulations, and property values. This requires continuous learning and adaptation to remain competitive in the industry.
Part II – Kickstarting Your Property Career
Before starting your career as a property agent in Singapore, there are specific steps and requirements to fulfill:
1. Property Agent Course & Exams: To become a registered property agent in Singapore, you must complete the Real Estate Salesperson (RES) Course offered by Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) Approved Course Providers. This course covers essential knowledge about real estate regulations and practices in Singapore. After completing the RES Course, you must pass two exams within two years from the date of issuance of the RES course completion certificate. These exams assess your understanding of real estate laws, regulations, and ethical standards. Failing to pass both exams within the specified timeframe will require you to retake the course and exams.
2. Registering As a Licensed Agent: Once you’ve successfully passed the RES exams, you can apply to become a licensed property agent. The property agency you choose to join will assist you in the application process through CEA’s e-services. Approval typically takes four to six weeks, after which you can start your real estate career officially.
3. Selecting An Estate Agency: Choosing the right estate agency is crucial to your success as a property agent. Look for agencies that align with your career goals and offer comprehensive training, support, and mentoring. Top agencies often have strong relationships with developers, providing agents with a range of property projects to market.
How to Be a Successful Real Estate Agent
Success as a property agent requires more than just meeting the basic requirements. Here are some essential tips to help you thrive in your real estate career:
1. Time Management and Self-Discipline: Create a structured daily schedule to manage your time effectively. Prioritize tasks such as market research, client meetings, and property viewings. Self-discipline is crucial to stay on track and achieve your goals.
2. Stay Informed: Continuously update your knowledge of the real estate market, regulations, and property values. Informed agents build trust with clients and can provide valuable insights.
3. Set Clear Goals: Define specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your real estate career. Having clear objectives helps you stay motivated and focused on your long-term success.
4. Effective Marketing: Understand your target audience and leverage the right marketing strategies to reach them. Embrace both traditional and digital marketing methods to expand your client base.
5. Client-Centric Approach: Focus on providing exceptional service and building strong client relationships. Satisfied clients are more likely to refer you to others and become repeat customers.
6. Personal Branding: Develop a personal brand that reflects your expertise and values as a property agent. Consistently promote your brand through content marketing, social media, and networking.
8. Be Patient and Persistent: Success in real estate often takes time. Stay patient, be persistent, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Consistency and resilience are key to long-term success.
How to Choose the Right Agency for Your Real Estate Career
Selecting the right real estate agency is a crucial step in launching your career as a property agent. Consider the following factors when choosing an agency:
1. Branding: Look for agencies with a strong and reputable brand in the market. A well-established brand can enhance your credibility and trustworthiness with clients.
2. Business Foundation and Leadership: Join agencies with a solid track record, a history of success, and strong leadership. A stable agency is more likely to provide support and growth opportunities.
3. Training Support: Ensure that the agency offers comprehensive training programs for both newcomers and experienced agents. Ongoing training helps you stay competitive and up-to-date with industry trends.
4. Staff Benefits and Welfare: Evaluate the benefits and support the agency provides to its agents. A supportive agency can enhance your career and overall well-being.
Becoming a successful property agent in Singapore requires careful planning, continuous learning, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to clients. While the profession offers flexibility and income potential, it also comes with challenges and competition. By following the right steps, staying informed, and choosing the right agency, you can build a rewarding and successful career in real estate.
Downsides with Being a Property Agent in Singapore
Contrary to popular expectations, the life of a property agent goes beyond the promise of “potentially unlimited income” and the opportunity to browse homes all day. In fact, we’ve previously provided a detailed breakdown of how much an average property agent in Singapore is likely to earn, and if you haven’t read that yet, you might be surprised by the figures.
However, beyond the financial numbers, there are numerous aspects of being a real estate agent that often go unnoticed. For every four or five realtors you encounter, you’ll likely find one who’s either feeling burned out or regretting their decision to enter the property market. Learning from both positive and negative experiences is crucial, so we’ve spoken to some disgruntled current and former realtors to shed light on the less-discussed challenges of their profession.
Whether you’re considering a career in real estate in the future or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes realities of being an agent, here are insights from ex-agents and current agents who have shared their experiences:
Delays in Getting Paid
This was a primary reason cited by a former realtor for leaving her job. She found the irregular payment schedules to be a significant source of anxiety. For instance, she sold three units in a new launch condo in 2018 but had to wait nearly a year to receive her payment. The uncertainty of income and the stress of financial planning can be overwhelming for real estate agents, particularly during seasons like Christmas or New Year when payments may be delayed.
Clients Changing Their Minds After Investments
Even experienced realtors encounter situations where clients change their minds after significant time and money have been invested. For example, one agent spent several thousand dollars on marketing a property, but the client had unrealistic expectations and ultimately changed agents, leading to financial losses.
Lack of Respect for Personal Space and Time
Some clients may have unrealistic expectations regarding response times. They may text or email late at night and become frustrated if they don’t receive immediate replies. This lack of understanding can put realtors in stressful situations.
High Costs of Marketing Listings and Dominance of Portals
Marketing properties can be expensive, and major property portals often have a monopoly or oligopoly on the market, allowing them to charge high fees. This situation can make it challenging for new agents with limited budgets to compete effectively.
Dealing with Others’ Inefficiencies
Realtors often face difficulties when other parties involved in a property transaction, such as clients, mortgage brokers, or other agents, fail to fulfill their responsibilities. These issues can delay or even cancel deals, affecting the livelihoods of the real estate agents involved.
The role of a property agent involves various challenges, from financial uncertainties to dealing with demanding clients and navigating a competitive and costly market. Success in this profession requires not only sales skills but also a high tolerance for adversity and a keen ability to manage multiple aspects of a transaction. It’s not a career to enter casually, and prospective agents should be well-prepared for the demands of the industry.
Career as a Property Agent VS Property Agent
1. Stability and Predictability of Income: One of the significant advantages of being an insurance agent is the relative stability and predictability of income. Insurance policies often provide recurring commissions, as clients renew their policies annually. This means that insurance agents can build a reliable stream of income over time, making it easier to plan their finances and maintain a steady lifestyle. In contrast, property agents rely on commission-based earnings, which can be highly variable, depending on market conditions and individual transactions.
2. Diverse Client Base: Insurance agents have a more diverse client base compared to property agents. Insurance products, such as life insurance, health insurance, and general insurance, cater to a wide range of demographics, including individuals, families, and businesses. This diversity can lead to a broader pool of potential clients and more opportunities for sales. Property agents, on the other hand, typically target a narrower market of property buyers and sellers, which can limit their clientele.
3. Lower Entry Barriers: Becoming an insurance agent in Singapore generally involves fewer barriers to entry compared to the real estate industry. To become an insurance agent, candidates typically need to complete a licensing course and pass relevant exams, which are less demanding and time-consuming than the requirements for property agents. This lower barrier to entry allows individuals to start their careers more quickly and with less financial investment.
4. Less Reliance on Market Fluctuations: The property market in Singapore can experience significant fluctuations, influenced by economic conditions, government policies, and external factors. Property agents are directly affected by these market fluctuations, which can lead to periods of slow sales and income uncertainty. Insurance agents, on the other hand, are less impacted by such fluctuations, as insurance products often provide coverage for various life events, irrespective of the economic climate.
5. Comprehensive Training and Support: Insurance companies typically offer comprehensive training and support to their agents. This includes product knowledge, sales techniques, and ongoing professional development. Insurance agents receive guidance to help them navigate complex insurance policies and meet their clients’ needs effectively. While property agencies also provide training, the insurance industry’s structured training programs can be especially beneficial for those new to sales.
6. Fulfilling a Vital Role: Insurance agents play a crucial role in helping individuals and businesses protect their financial futures. They provide peace of mind by offering solutions that cover unexpected events, such as accidents, illnesses, or disasters. Many insurance agents find fulfillment in knowing that they are helping their clients secure their financial well-being and mitigate risks.
7. Regulatory Stability: The insurance industry in Singapore is highly regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This regulatory oversight contributes to a stable and trustworthy industry environment. While the real estate industry also has regulatory oversight through the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), property agents may encounter more complex regulatory challenges due to the diverse nature of property transactions.
In conclusion, while both insurance agents and property agents offer valuable services and career opportunities, there are compelling reasons why some individuals may find it more advantageous to become insurance agents in Singapore. The stability of income, diverse client base, lower entry barriers, and regulatory stability can make a career in insurance more appealing for those seeking a reliable and rewarding profession. Ultimately, the choice between the two professions should align with an individual’s skills, interests, and career aspirations.
If your goal is to establish a career in the financial industry in Singapore, look no further than InsuranceJobs.sg. We collaborate with prominent financial advisory firms partnered with top insurers actively seeking candidates in Singapore. Additionally, we provide guidance in choosing the agency that aligns best with your aspirations.
