Career
Becoming a Property Agent: Is this the Right Career for You?
Being a property agent is often seen as an attractive career due to its flexibility and income potential. As of 1 January 2026, there are 36,835 registered property agents in Singapore, according to the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA). Agents work closely with buyers and sellers, providing services such as sales, marketing, and advisory, while earning professional fees from successful transactions. But beyond the income, is this career truly right for you?
Flexible Working Hours
One of the biggest draws of being a property agent is flexibility. Agents can plan their own schedules and are not bound to a traditional 9-to-5 routine. However, this flexibility often comes with trade-offs, as most viewings and client meetings take place during evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Variable but Unlimited Income
Property agents do not earn a fixed salary. Income is commission-based, which means earnings can fluctuate depending on market conditions. While slower periods may impact income, there is no ceiling to how much one can earn, making this career appealing to those comfortable with risk and are self-driven.
RES Course and Exams
To become a licensed property agent in Singapore, you must complete the Real Estate Salesperson (RES) Course conducted by a CEA-approved provider. After completing the course, candidates must pass two exam papers within two years. Failing to do so requires retaking the course.
Once the exams are cleared, agents can register through a property agency via CEA’s e-services. Approval typically takes four to six weeks, after which agents can officially begin their real estate career.
Choosing the Right Agency
Selecting the right estate agency is critical. Beyond administrative support, a good agency provides mentorship, training, marketing tools, and access to projects. Agencies trusted by developers also offer wider opportunities in local and international project marketing. Obviously, if you are reading this. You should consider me in Propnex. Read more on Propnex here. https://www.propnex.com/
Once the exams are cleared, agents can register through a property agency via CEA’s e-services. Approval typically takes four to six weeks, after which agents can officially begin their real estate career.
How to Be a Successful Real Estate Agent
Success in real estate requires more than flexibility and ambition. Many agents do not make it past the first two years due to poor planning or lack of discipline. Those that stay on only manage to achieve mediocre results. However, if you want to be a successful agent. You must do the following very closely.
Have a Buring Desire to Succeed
This is by far the most important criteria to succeed in this industry. The driving force behind your intent will motivate you to do things that you feel uncomfortable with or to step out of your comfort zone.
Self-Discipline
Structured schedules and daily action plans are essential. You must manage your time well and be extremely self-discipline. Nobody is going to go behind your back to ask you to do work.
Market Knowledge
Clients expect agents to be well-informed about regulations, pricing, and market trends. This is essential if you wanted to standout.
Client-Centric Approach
Long-term success comes from trust, transparency, and clear communication. Treat clients with the best professional standard and they will treat you well with referrals.
Personal Branding
A strong personal brand opens doors beyond transactions, including partnerships and other opportunities.
Mentorship
Learning from experienced mentors can significantly shorten the learning curve. Join someone that is still doing personal sales and have the time for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question? We’ve got you covered.
Here are some of the most common queries on a career in property.
I do not have any past sales experiences. Can I still do sales?
Yes, you can. Sales is a skill that can be learned. I started off without any sale experiences anyway. But it was a steep learning curve. I have to be frank with you. Here, if I can do it. So can you!
What must I prepare now if I planned to become a property agent?
Go and take the RES exam and clear the exam. That is the most importantly thing to do now. In the meantime, you can immerse yourself by reading up on property news, policies, regulations and any happening events pertaining to the industry. You can also follow my social handles to keep yourself abreast of the industry.
I’m always sceptical about sales jobs. Can this really be a career?
Sales is never an easy career. It demands strong mental resilience and emotional strength to last. That said, real estate sales can be highly rewarding if you approach it seriously and treat it as a long-term profession. Many have built successful careers this way. If you never try, you’ll never know. However, this must be viewed as a career, not just a “job.” If you’re only looking for a job with certainty and comfort, this industry may not be the right fit.
What qualities must I have to do well in property sales?
There are five key qualities essential for success in this line:
- A strong desire to succeed — you need hunger and determination, or the industry will wear you down quickly.
- A genuine interest in property or strong motivation for results — if you don’t enjoy what you sell, it’s hard to stay passionate.
- Self-discipline — without fixed working hours, many agents lose focus or get distracted instead of building their business.
- Resilience and perseverance — many new RES give up far too early, before giving themselves enough time to see results.
- The right mentor — a good manager can guide you and contribute part of your success, but the majority still depends on your own consistency, effort, and execution.
Is this a 100% commission-based career. Will there be any basic salary?
This is a 100% commission-based career. There is no basic salary. In this way, you will be driven to succeed!
How much can I potentially earn?
The sky the limit! It is possible to earn six-digit figures in a year if you adopted the right strategies and lots of hard work. On another extreme. You could be scoring zero sales and throw in the towel as soon as you get in. That is the sad reality.
I plan to work part-time. I’m semi-retired, a full-time homemaker, or retired. Can I still join?
Absolutely. Real estate is a highly flexible career where you manage your own time. I welcome part-timers, retirees, full-time homemakers, retrenched individuals, and fresh graduates. I’ll tailor the training and level of support according to your availability and goals.
Can I practise as a part-time agent while holding a full-time job?
It depends. As long as your HR department or immediate supervisor approves, you may practise as a part-time agent. It’s always best to seek their consent first. However, if you’re employed in the government or a statutory board, the answer is generally no.
Will there be any training provided?
Yes. Training are conducted regularly in Propnex that covers policies, market trends to specialize sales training. There is also monthly training conducted by top leaders in Propnex. On the team level, I will also personally conduct addition training sessions to accelerate your learning curve.
Which division are you part of?
My immediate manager is Veroy Chua, who leads the Veroy Chua Division. Our division operates under the Matt Lam Division, which in turn falls under the Marcus Luah Advisory Group — currently the largest group within PropNex.
How will you support me on a personal level?
I provide support on three levels.
First, you’ll have the opportunity to shadow me during appointments. This gives you a front-row view of how I engage clients, understand their needs, and present tailored property solutions.
Second, I’ll conduct regular one-to-one reviews with you to align your strategies and approach. These sessions are designed to keep you focused, motivated, and moving in the right direction.
Third, I’ll be your mentor throughout your sales career. Whenever you encounter questions, challenges, or unfamiliar situations, you can always approach me for guidance and advice.
Why you should join me?
First, I’ve been in the real estate industry for over 17 years. The experience I’ve accumulated over the years allows me to help you elevate your sales performance and avoid common pitfalls. I’ll openly share the mistakes I’ve made, so you don’t have to learn everything the hard way.
Second, I’m currently growing my team, which means I have the time and capacity to mentor you properly. This is crucial, as many managers are stretched thin and may not have the time or commitment to support their team members effectively.
Third, I’m still actively involved in sales myself. This matters because a manager who continues to sell stays relevant, understands current market conditions, and can offer practical, up-to-date guidance — not just theory.
Can I meet up with you to understand more before I join you?
Yes. We can arrange to meet up in a nice café to discuss further.
My Parting Thoughts...
