The housing market in the UK is very exciting right now. Every day, people are buying new homes or selling old ones. It is a fast-moving world. Because the market is busy, many people want to work in it. It can be a very fun and rewarding job. However, you might be confused about the name. In many countries, people say “Real Estate Agent.” But here in the UK, we usually say “Estate Agent.” They mean the same thing. We will use both names in this guide to help you learn. You probably have one big question today. You are asking, “How can I become a real estate agent?” This is a great question to ask.
This guide is here to help you find the answer. We will look at the skills you need. We will also look at how much money you can make. Additionally, we will discuss how to become an estate agent in the UK in 2026. You do not need to worry if you are new to the UK. This career is open to many people. By the end, you will know exactly what you need to be a real estate agent to start your journey.
What does a UK Estate Agent actually do?
Many people think this job is easy. They think you just open doors for people. However, that is not true. An estate agent does much more than that. It is a very busy job.
First, you help people sell their homes. You must visit the house and give a price. This is called a “market appraisal” or valuation. You look at the rooms and the garden. Then, you tell the owner how much money they can get.
Next, you arrange viewings. This means you take buyers to see the house. You walk them around and answer their questions. You must be friendly and helpful.
After that, you have to negotiate. The buyer offers a price. The seller might want more money. You talk to both of them. You help them agree on a final price.
Finally, there is “sales progression.” This is the hardest part. Once a price is agreed upon, lawyers get involved. You must call the lawyers and keep things moving. You ensure the sale finishes quickly.
There is also a difference between the two types of agents:
- Sales Agents: They help people buying and selling houses.
- Letting Agents: They help landlords find tenants to rent houses.
Both roles are good, but they are slightly different.
How Can I Become a Real Estate Agent in the UK?
Now, let’s answer the main question. What do you need to be a real estate agent in this country? The answer might surprise you.
Do I need any qualifications to become a real estate agent in the UK?
Currently, the rules are quite relaxed. You do not need a special license to start. This is different from the USA or other countries. In the UK, you can apply for a job tomorrow. You do not need a piece of paper from the government.
Is a university degree required, or are there alternative pathways?
You do not need a university degree. A degree can help, but it is not a rule. Most bosses look for personality. They want to know if you can talk to people. If you are friendly and work hard, you can get hired.
What are the legal or licensing requirements in the UK?
As mentioned, there is no strict law yet. However, this might change in the future. For now, you just need to be honest. You must follow general consumer protection laws. Most agencies will teach you these laws when you start working.
How Can I Become a Real Estate Agent with No Experience?
Maybe you have never sold a house before. You might be worried. You might ask, “What do you need to be a real estate agent if I am a beginner?”
Can someone with no sales background still become an estate agent?
Yes, absolutely. Many agents start with zero experience. Perhaps you worked in a shop or a café. These jobs teach you how to talk to customers. That is a very important skill. If you are good with people, you are halfway there.
Are there any trainee or apprenticeship positions available?
This is a great way to start. Look for “Trainee Negotiator” jobs. These jobs are for beginners. The company expects you to know nothing. They will teach you everything.
How can I gain relevant skills without formal training?
You can practice on your own. Read news about house prices. Walk around your local area. Learn the names of the streets. Learn which schools are good. This knowledge impresses bosses. It shows you are serious about the job.
Do I need a degree or specific qualifications?
We touched on this, but let’s go deeper. When asking what do you need to be a real estate agent, education is a big topic.
The Law
In the UK, the law does not require a degree. You can leave school at 16 or 18 and start working. This is great news for immigrants. You do not need to study at a UK university for three years. You can start earning money quickly.
Voluntary Qualifications
However, you can choose to study if you want to. There are groups like Property Mark (NAEA). They offer special certificates. These are voluntary. That means you do not have to do them. But, they look very good on your CV. They show that you are a professional.
Apprenticeships
For young people, apprenticeships are perfect. You work and learn at the same time. You also get paid a small salary. It usually takes 12 to 18 months. At the end, you have a qualification and a job.
| Pathway | Cost | Time | Benefit |
| University | High | 3 Years | Good for management later |
| Apprenticeship | Free (You get paid) | 12-18 Months | Learn while working |
| Direct Entry | None | Immediate | Start earning commission fast |
What Skills Do I Need to Succeed as a UK Estate Agent?
So, what do you need to be a real estate agent regarding your personality? It is not just about math or writing.
Which soft and hard skills are essential in UK property sales?
“Soft skills” are about how you act. “Hard skills” are technical things you learn.
Essential Soft Skills:
- Confidence: You must speak clearly to strangers.
- Patience: Selling a house takes a long time.
- Empathy: You must understand how people feel. Moving house is stressful.
Essential Hard Skills:
- Computer Skills: You need to use email and office software.
- Driving: You almost always need a driver’s license. You have to drive to houses.
- Math: You need to calculate percentages for fees.
How important is local area knowledge in an estate agency?
This is very important. Clients will ask you many questions. “Is this street quiet?” “Where is the nearest bus stop?” If you know the answers, they trust you. If you are new to the UK, spend time exploring your city.
Does communication or negotiation matter more?
They both matter. But communication comes first. You must listen to what a buyer wants. If you listen well, negotiation becomes easier. You are solving a problem for them.
What Training or Courses Should I Take?
If you want to study, what do you need to be a real estate agent in terms of courses?
Are there regulated estate agent courses in the UK?
Yes, there are Ofqual-regulated estate agent courses in the UK (not compulsory, but very respected).
The best are Property Mark Level 2 and Level 3 Awards in Sales or Lettings. They teach property law, valuations, and anti-money laundering rules. Cost £400–£900, mostly online. Bosses love them and many agencies pay for you later!
Which accredited organisations offer recognised training?
The biggest one is Propertymark. They are very famous in the UK. Another one is the Guild of Property Professionals. If an employer sees these names, they will be happy.
Should I consider becoming a member of NAEA Propertymark?
Yes, you should. NAEA stands for the National Association of Estate Agents. Being a member proves you are honest. It tells clients their money is safe with you. It is a badge of honour.
Can I Become a Real Estate Agent Without Doing a Course?
You might want to save money. You might ask, “What do you need to be a real estate agent if I skip the classes?”
The honest answer is yes. You can skip the courses. In fact, most top agents never took a course before they started. They learned by doing the job.
The Risks:
- You might make mistakes early on.
- You might not understand legal words.
- It might take longer to get promoted.
Success Stories:
Many agency owners started as tea makers. They watched the older agents. They listened to phone calls. Slowly, they learned the tricks. Now, they run the business. Hard work is often more valuable than a classroom.
Should I Work for an Agency or Go Self-Employed?
This is a big choice. What do you need to be a real estate agent on your own versus in a team?
What are the pros and cons of working with an estate agency?
Working for a High Street agency is safe.
- Pros: You get a basic salary. You have a boss to help you. You use their computers and cars.
- Cons: You must work set hours (usually 9 am to 6 pm). You keep less of the commission.
How do I start as a self-employed estate agent in the UK?
This is becoming popular. You work from home.
- Pros: You choose your hours. You keep more money.
- Cons: You have no guaranteed salary. If you do not sell, you do not eat. You must find your own clients.
Are online estate agent franchises a good option?
Companies like Keller Williams or eXp are popular now. They give you a brand name. But you work for yourself. This is good if you have some savings. It is risky for a complete beginner.
What Can I Expect to Earn as a Real Estate Agent in the UK?
Money is important. When you ask “what do you need to be a real estate agent,” you are also asking about the reward.
What is the average salary for UK-based real estate agents?
Usually, there is a “Basic Salary.” This is low. It might be between £18,000 and £25,000 a year. But do not worry. This is just the start.
How much commission do UK agents make?
The real money is in commission. This is a bonus for selling a house.
- Trainee: £25,000 – £30,000 total earnings.
- Experienced: £35,000 – £60,000 total earnings.
- Top Performers: £80,000+ total earnings.
The harder you work, the more you earn. There is no limit.
Does location affect your earning potential?
Yes, it does. Houses in London are very expensive. Therefore, the commission is higher in London. Agents in the North of England sell cheaper houses. So, they might earn slightly less per house. However, living costs in the North are cheaper too.
How Can I Grow My Career in the Real Estate Industry?
You do not want to stay a trainee forever. What do you need to be a real estate agent who becomes a boss?
What are the typical career progression paths?
The path usually looks like this:
- Trainee Negotiator: Learning the ropes.
- Senior Negotiator: Handling big sales.
- Valuer / Lister: Going out to price houses.
- Branch Manager: Running the office.
- Regional Manager: Running many offices.
Can I specialise in commercial or overseas property?
Yes. Commercial agents sell shops and offices. This requires more math. Overseas agents sell holiday homes in Spain or France. That sounds like a nice job!
How do estate agents become property developers or investors?
Agents see the best deals first. Over time, many agents buy houses themselves. They fix them up and sell them. This is how they build real wealth. They use their knowledge to become investors.
Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent Still Worth It in 2026?
The world is changing, and computers are clever. Some people ask, “What do you need to be a real estate agent if robots can do it?”
- The Reality: Robots cannot understand feelings. Buying a home is emotional. People want to trust a human. They want to look you in the eye. Therefore, agents are still very important.
- Commission Changes: Fees are getting lower because of online competition. But house prices are rising. So, the money is still good.
- Market Forecast: People will always need somewhere to live. They fall in love, get married, have babies, move jobs, and retire. Hence, life keeps changing, so the housing market never stops. House prices may go up or down a little, but the need for homes is forever. That makes an estate agency one of the safest, happiest careers for the long term.
Conclusion
So, what do you need to be a real estate agent in the UK?
- A full UK driving licence
- A big smile and friendly energy
- Hard work and honesty
- NO degree, NO big money, NO experience needed!
Being an immigrant is actually your superpower. You know what it feels like to start again. You understand families who are moving for a better life. Clients will love you for that.
What’s the next step if you’re ready?
- Update your CV tonight (mention any customer-facing jobs).
- Get your UK driving licence if you don’t have it yet.
- Walk into every estate agency in your town tomorrow and say: “I want to be a trainee negotiator – when can I start?”
Someone will say yes. And that will be the first day of your exciting new life in a British property.
FAQs
1. What qualifications do you need to become a real estate agent?
- In the UK, no formal qualifications are required, but strong sales and communication skills are essential.
2. Do estate agents earn good money?
- Yes, estate agents can earn good money, especially when commission is included.
3. Is it hard to be a real estate agent in the UK?
- Yes, the job can be demanding due to sales targets and workload pressure.
4. How much does it cost to get a real estate license in the UK?
- There is no mandatory license in the UK, but optional courses usually cost between £500 and £1,500.
5. How much do realtors earn in the UK?
- Earnings vary, but most estate agents earn between £20,000 and £50,000 per year.
6. Can I become an estate agent with no experience?
- Yes, many people become estate agents without prior experience by starting in trainee roles.
7. How long does it take to become an estate agent?
- You can start immediately after being hired, with training typically lasting a few weeks or months.
8. What degree is best for a real estate agent?
- No specific degree is required, but Business or Marketing degrees can be beneficial.