Broker knowledge
How to become a real estate agent: Your path to success
First things first: in Germany, anyone can become a real estate agent—whether you're changing careers, just starting out, or already a real estate pro. It's also good to know that you don't necessarily need training as a real estate agent. Much of what you need to know can be learned through your own research or further training. But first things first—let us show you what you need to consider on this exciting journey.
Perhaps you can already picture yourself in a smart suit, showing people around luxurious villas and talking to future homeowners about their wishes and dreams. You are enthusiastic about real estate and determined to get started in this dynamic industry. And no, you don't need any special training to become a real estate agent. However, you do have to meet a few requirements if you want to become self-employed.
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The legal hurdles
If you want to work as a real estate agent in Germany, there are a few legal things to consider. One important point is the broker's license in accordance with § 34c of the Trade Regulation Act (GewO). You can obtain this license from the relevant trade authority. You must prove that you are personally trustworthy and have not committed any insolvency offenses. Your police clearance certificate should therefore be flawless—without any previous convictions, especially for offenses such as document forgery, embezzlement, or money laundering.
You will also need a business license for your activity. This is also available from the trade authority and shows that you have registered your business properly. To register, you must already have the above-mentioned broker's license. That's the first step!
What skills are important?
The world of real estate offers a dynamic environment that requires constant adaptation. Even though the term "real estate agent" is not protected and , in theory, anyone can take up this profession, in-depth knowledge pays off. Seminars, for example at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry or the European Real Estate Academy, teach you the necessary basics and deepen your knowledge in specific areas. After a few months of intensive learning, you will receive a certificate that highlights your expertise and helps you position yourself in the market.
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Strong communication skills: You will be dealing with people a lot. Your ability to communicate clearly and convincingly will help you build trust and close deals. A trained ear and an open mind are worth their weight in gold here.
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Market understanding: To be successful, you should know the real estate market well. Regular market analysis and knowledge of the current value of properties are essential to be able to offer your clients the best options.
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Negotiation skills: You will often have to mediate between buyers and sellers. Your talent for negotiating fair deals often determines success or failure.
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Commitment and initiative: It can be difficult to get started, especially at the beginning. But if you make an effort, build networks, and make a name for yourself through your commitment, the chances are good that you will quickly become successful.
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Further training and thirst for knowledge: The real estate market is constantly changing. Regular training courses and seminars, for example at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry or specialized academies, help you to stay up to date and offer your customers real added value.
Real estate agent—and then what? Your next steps
Imagine you are looking for an apartment and want to get a first impression. What do you do? You probably go online, visit real estate portals, look at pictures, and compare prices. Most customers do the same. Today, over 90% of real estate searches start online. If you, as a real estate agent, are not present where your potential customers are, you are missing out on valuable opportunities.
In an increasingly digital world, traditional "door-to-door sales" alone is no longer enough. More and more customers are searching for their dream property online, and expectations for digital services are high.
You may be thinking, "That all sounds good, but I don't have the time or technical know-how to manage a website."
Don't worry! There are specialized service providers who focus specifically on creating customized and professional websites for real estate agents. From attractive design to the integration of a real estate agent CRM system(Propstack, onOffice, Flowfact...) to search engine optimization – everything from a single source.
The advantage? You can concentrate on your core business—brokering real estate—and let the tech professionals take care of the rest. Investing in a good real estate agent website and digital tools is not an expense, but one of the most important investments in your future as a successful real estate agent.
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24/7 availability and reach: A website is accessible around the clock. This means that customers can search for properties and find out about your listings even outside of your business hours. This allows you to reach those who have little time during the day and prefer to do their research in the evening.
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Professional first impression: A well-designed website immediately conveys professionalism and reliability. It is your digital business card and can build trust. Customers feel more secure when they see that you have an established and well-structured online presence.
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More leads and customer loyalty through content: You can offer valuable content such as blog posts, guides, and market analyses on your website. These not only help to showcase your expertise, but also improve your visibility in search engines such as Google. The more relevant content you offer, the easier you will be found and the more potential customers you will reach.
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Efficient customer management with CRM integration: A CRM system helps you keep track of your prospects and customers. You can manage contacts, organize inquiries, and automate follow-ups. This saves time and ensures that you don't lose any important leads. Modern real estate agent websites can be connected directly to CRM systems, so you have all the important information in one place.
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Targeted online marketing measures: Having your own website gives you the opportunity to launch targeted online marketing campaigns. Whether it's Google Ads, social media advertising, or email marketing, you can target exactly the right audience for your offering. This not only increases your visibility, but also generates more qualified leads.
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Transparent and up-to-date presentation of your portfolio: Potential buyers and tenants want to see up-to-date information and high-quality photos and videos. Having your own website allows you to update your portfolio at any time and present your properties in the best possible light. Modern tools such as 360-degree tours or drone footage offer real added value.
Becoming a real estate agent and asserting yourself against your competitors as a newcomer to the digital market is easier than you might think. With the right brokerage software and a little courage, perseverance, and a willingness to keep learning. What are you waiting for? Take the first step today and launch yourself into a successful digital future as a real estate agent!
Stay one step ahead of your competition
Why not seek some advice? At YPSOLUTION, we help companies become even more visible and successful with a website system that goes far beyond what a classic WordPress website can offer you.