How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent and Broker in the Philippines

Some people are naturally smart when it comes to dealing with the world of real estate. They possess a unique blend of business acumen, interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of the property market. If you find yourself drawn to the dynamic realm of real estate in the Philippines, where opportunities abound and properties change hands every day, then becoming a licensed real estate agent or broker might be the perfect path for you.

By acquiring the necessary knowledge, skills, and credentials, you can unlock a rewarding career that involves helping individuals and businesses find their dream properties, negotiate deals, and navigate the intricacies of the real estate landscape. If this resonates with you, then feel free to explore the steps and requirements to become a licensed real estate agent and broker in the Philippines, opening the door to a world of possibilities and success in this exciting industry.

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Real Estate in the Philippines

Real estate in the Philippines has been booming in the past few years, thanks to the rapid economic recovery and the increased demand for housing and commercial spaces.

The country has seen a surge in foreign investments, especially from China and Japan, who are attracted by the low-cost labor, favorable tax incentives, and strategic location of the archipelago.

The government has also been supportive of the real estate sector, by providing infrastructure projects, easing regulations, and promoting tourism and cultural heritage.

Some of the hottest areas for real estate development in 2023 are Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, Clark, and Boracay.

And so, with this industry on the rise, many Filipinos find new opportunities in becoming licensed real estate agents in the country.

Benefits of Becoming a Licensed Real Estate Agent or Broker

The real estate industry offers a plethora of opportunities for those seeking a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.

Whether you aspire to become a licensed real estate agent or broker in the Philippines, here are some compelling reasons why this industry may be the perfect fit for you:

Financial Stability

Licensed real estate agents and brokers enjoy the advantage of financial stability in their careers.

Many real estate professionals, especially those affiliated with reputable real estate companies, receive a stable monthly salary or income.
In addition to this, they are eligible to earn commissions whenever they successfully close a sale.
Typically, real estate agents can earn commissions ranging from three to five percent, while brokers can earn up to six percent of the property’s value upon a successful transaction.

This combination of stable income and commission-based earnings can provide a lucrative source of financial stability.

Networking Opportunities

The real estate industry offers an excellent platform for building a vast network of connections.

As a real estate professional, you will have the opportunity to interact with diverse individuals from various walks of life.
Working on the sales side of the industry requires you to build rapport and understand your clients’ needs, enabling you to provide them with the properties that suit their preferences.
Moreover, satisfied homebuyers often refer their agents to their friends and acquaintances, helping agents and brokers expand their network of potential clients and establish long-lasting relationships.

Easy Accreditation Process for Real Estate Salespersons

Starting a career as a real estate salesperson is achievable, regardless of whether you have completed a college degree or not.
If you are a Filipino citizen, have resided for at least two years in the Philippines, possess good moral character, and have not been involved in any crimes of moral turpitude, you can become a real estate agent.

Additionally, you need to have either completed 72 units in college or undergone a training and seminar program of at least twelve credit units in real estate brokerage.
This accessible accreditation process makes it convenient for individuals from various educational backgrounds to pursue a career in real estate.

Licensing Examination for Real Estate Brokers

If you aspire to become a licensed real estate broker in the Philippines, you will need to go through a licensure examination conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission.
While this may require additional effort, obtaining a broker’s license opens up new opportunities for growth, increased responsibilities, and higher earning potential in the industry.

Embarking on a career in the real estate industry can offer a combination of financial stability, networking opportunities, and accessible accreditation processes.

Whether you choose to become a licensed real estate agent or broker, this dynamic industry promises a rewarding and fulfilling path for those with a passion for properties, negotiation, and helping clients find their dream homes or investments.

Real Estate Agent and Broker: What’s the Difference?

In the world of real estate, the terms “real estate agent” and “real estate broker” are often used interchangeably. While both roles involve facilitating property transactions, there are distinct differences between the two. Understanding these differences is crucial for individuals aspiring to enter the real estate industry in the Philippines. In this guide, we will delve into the variances between a real estate agent and a real estate broker, highlighting their responsibilities, qualifications, and the unique opportunities each role offers.

Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent, also known as a real estate salesperson, is an individual licensed to represent buyers and sellers in real estate transactions. Here are the key aspects of being a real estate agent:

Representation: Real estate agents work under the supervision and guidance of a licensed real estate broker. They act as intermediaries between clients and the broker, representing clients’ interests in property transactions.
Client Interaction: Agents directly interact with clients, assisting them in various stages of the buying or selling process. They help clients identify suitable properties, schedule property viewings, negotiate offers, and facilitate the closing of transactions.
Licensing Requirements: To become a licensed real estate agent in the Philippines, certain qualifications must be met. These typically include being a Filipino citizen, having a good moral character, completing at least 72 units in college or undergoing a training and seminar program in real estate brokerage, and passing the real estate licensure examination administered by the Professional Regulation Commission.

Commission Earnings: Real estate agents earn commissions based on the successful completion of property transactions. The commission percentage is typically a predetermined percentage of the property’s selling price, agreed upon between the agent and the broker. Agents often receive a portion of the commission while the broker retains the rest.

Real Estate Broker

A real estate broker is a licensed professional who has undergone additional training and has obtained a higher level of accreditation in the real estate industry. Let’s explore the key aspects of being a real estate broker:

Supervisory Role: Real estate brokers have acquired the necessary qualifications and experience to oversee real estate transactions. They may establish their own real estate firms or work as independent professionals, supervising a team of real estate agents.

Expanded Responsibilities: Brokers take on more extensive responsibilities than agents. In addition to representing clients in property transactions, brokers are authorized to own and manage their own real estate firms, hire and supervise agents, and handle legal and financial aspects of real estate transactions.
Licensing Requirements: To become a licensed real estate broker in the Philippines, individuals must fulfill specific criteria. This generally includes being a Filipino citizen, having a good moral character, possessing a Bachelor’s degree in any field, completing a real estate management or related course, and passing the real estate broker licensure examination conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission.
Commission Earnings: Real estate brokers have the potential to earn higher commissions than agents. As they oversee multiple agents and transactions, brokers typically receive a higher percentage of the commission earned from each completed transaction.

Choosing the Right Path

When considering a career in real estate, it’s essential to weigh the differences between becoming a real estate agent or a broker.
Agents often begin their journey to gain practical experience, industry knowledge, and establish a client base.
On the other hand, brokers pursue additional education, experience, and licensing to take on leadership roles and expand their earning potential.

Ultimately, the decision to become a real estate agent or broker depends on individual goals, aspirations, and long-term plans within the industry.
Some may find satisfaction in the hands-on nature of being an agent, while others may seek the autonomy and entrepreneurial opportunities that come with being a broker.

Guide on Becoming a Real Estate Agent in the Philippines

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a real estate salesperson in the Philippines, it is important to familiarize yourself with the requirements and qualifications set forth by Republic Act 9646, also known as the Real Estate Service Act. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming a licensed real estate salesperson, including the qualifications and steps involved.

Qualifications:

Before you can become a licensed real estate salesperson, you need to meet the following qualifications:

Filipino Citizen

You must be a citizen of the Philippines to be eligible for accreditation as a real estate salesperson.

Educational Requirement

Completion of at least two (2) years or 72 units of college is mandatory.

This demonstrates a basic level of education and knowledge that is deemed necessary for conducting real estate transactions.

Good Moral Character

It is essential to possess a good moral character, as indicated by your conduct and reputation.

Applicants with convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude may be disqualified.

Training and Seminar:

You must have undergone training and seminars specifically related to real estate brokerage.

The total duration of these training programs should be equivalent to at least twelve (12) credit units.
These programs are designed to provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the field.

Real Estate Agent Accreditation Process: Step-by-Step Guide

If you aspire to become an accredited real estate salesperson in the Philippines, it is important to familiarize yourself with the requirements and steps involved in the application process. This guide will walk you through the necessary documents and the procedure for filing your application for accreditation.

Requirements for Accreditation:

Before filing your application, ensure that you have the following documents and requirements ready:

Original and Photocopy of NSO Certificate of Live Birth/Birth Certificate: This is to establish proof of your identity and citizenship.

Original and Photocopy of NSO Marriage Certificate/Contract (For married females only): If applicable, provide this document as proof of marital status.
Original and Notarized Certificate of Educational Attainment: This document should indicate the completion of at least two (2) years of college.
Original NBI Clearance: Obtain an original clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) as a requirement for accreditation.

Original and Notarized Certification of twelve (12) credit units on Real Estate Brokerage: Attend a Real Estate Brokerage seminar for 12 hours from an accredited Real Estate Brokerage Training Provider and obtain the necessary certification.
Photocopy of Broker’s PRC License with 3 signatures: Provide a photocopy of the supervising Real Estate Broker’s Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) license, ensuring its validity for at least 6 months upon your application.
Photocopy of Community Tax/Cedula: Include a photocopy of your community tax or cedula as proof of payment.

Duly Accomplished Application Form: Fill out the application form completely and accurately.
Passport-size Photo on White Background: Attach a recent passport-size photo with a name tag displaying your complete name.
Government-Issued ID and/or any valid ID: Prepare a photocopy of a government-issued ID or any other valid identification document.

Steps to File for Accreditation:

Follow these steps to file your application for accreditation as a real estate salesperson:

Step 1: Fill out the application form and gather all the required documents for pre-evaluation. Submit these to the Application Division at the PRC Central Office or the processing counters at regional offices.

Step 2: Visit the Legal Division (2nd Floor, Main Building) to have your documents notarized.

Step 3: Proceed to the cashier on the Ground Floor of the Main Building or the designated Cashier’s Window at regional offices to pay the accreditation fee of P450.00.

Step 4: Visit the Customer Service Center on the Ground Floor of the Annex Building or the designated counter at regional offices to obtain a documentary stamp.

Step 5: Submit the duly accomplished application form and all the required documents to the Application Division on the 4th Floor of the Annex Building or the designated counter at regional offices.

Step 6: Keep track of the status of your application by checking the PRC website (prc.gov.ph) under the “News & Event” section.

Limitations and Restrictions:

As a real estate salesperson, it is important to be aware of the limitations and restrictions set forth by Republic Act 9646:

Supervision by a Real Estate Broker: Real estate salespersons must work under the direct supervision of a licensed real estate broker.
No Independent Agreement Negotiation: Salespersons cannot independently be signatories to a written agreement in a real estate transaction. The supervising broker must also be a signatory to the agreement.

Accreditation Requirement: Salespersons cannot negotiate or transact any real estate transaction on behalf of a broker without securing authorized accreditation from the Professional Regulatory Board of Real Estate Service (PRBRES).
Fee and Compensation Handling: Salespersons are not entitled to receive fees, commissions, or compensation directly from clients. All such payments should be handled by the supervising real estate broker.

Note: Any violation of the provisions outlined in the Real Estate Service Act may result in the cancellation or suspension of the real estate broker’s certificate of registration.

By following these steps and adhering to the limitations and restrictions, you can successfully file for accreditation as a real estate salesperson in the Philippines.

Remember to stay updated with any changes or additional requirements implemented by the PRBRES or the PRC to ensure compliance with regulations and to maintain a successful career in the real estate industry.

Guide on Becoming a Licensed Real Estate Broker in the Philippines

If you aspire to become a licensed real estate broker in the Philippines, there are certain steps you need to follow. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming a real estate broker, including the educational requirements, licensure exam, and subsequent registration.

Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate Management (REM)

According to Republic Act 9646, a real estate broker should have a fundamental understanding of various real estate concepts and practices.
To fulfill this educational requirement, you need to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Management (REM).
This degree program covers subjects such as property ownership, legal requirements for real estate practice, real estate brokerage, finance and economics, urban and rural land use, and more.

Here are some colleges and universities in different regions of the Philippines that offer the Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Management (BS REM) program:

(Note: This is not an exhaustive list. It’s always recommended to check with the respective institutions for the most up-to-date information.)

Luzon – Metro Manila:

ABE International Business College – Las Piñas Campus
Adamson University
AMA University

De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde
Gardner College
iAcademy

Lyceum of Alabang
Manila Business College Foundation
Manuel L. Quezon University

New Era University
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
Philippine Christian University

Trinity University of Asia

Luzon – Rizal:

ABE International Business College – Cainta

STI College – Cainta

Luzon – South Luzon:

ABE International Business College – Lucena Campus

AMA Computer University – Batangas Campus
AMA Computer University – Lipa Campus
Batangas Eastern Colleges

Brookfield College, Dasmarinas
De La Salle Lipa
Emilio Aguinaldo College – Cavite Campus

Lyceum of the Philippines University – Cavite Campus
National College of Science and Technology
STI College – Calamba

STI College – Dasmarinas
St. Louis Anne Colleges
Westmead International School

Young Ji College

Step 2: Take the Licensure Exam

Once you have completed your Bachelor’s degree in REM, you are eligible to take the licensure exam for real estate brokers.
This exam is administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) at least once a year. The schedule for the examination is determined by the Commission.

Qualifications for the licensure exam:

Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Management (BS REM)
Must be a Filipino citizen, at least 18 to 21 years old, and of good moral character

Must not have been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude with a final judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction

Requirements for the licensure exam:

NSO/PSA Birth Certificate

NSO/PSA Marriage Contract (for married female applicants)
Transcript of Records with scanned picture and remarks “For Board Examination Purposes”
Valid NBI Clearance (First Timers & Repeaters)

4 passport-sized photos with a complete name-tag in a white background
Government-issued ID and/or any valid ID
Payment of examination fee (Php 900.00)

To apply for the licensure exam, follow these steps:

Visit the PRC website at https://www.prc.gov.ph and click on the “Online Application” section.
Read and accept the terms of service provided by the board.

Register and fill out the application form with your personal information. You will receive an email for validation.
Validate your email address by clicking the link sent by the PRC. This will redirect you to the online services website.
Sign in to your account and fill out your personal information on the profile page.

Upload your photo.
Select the examination type, date, and place.
Set the appointment, choose the payment method, and process the transaction.

Print the document of the exam application.
Attend the scheduled appointment for the licensure exam.

Step 3: Take an Oath and Begin Your Real Estate Broker Career

After successfully passing the licensure exam, you will be required to register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

The board will provide the date and venue for the oath-taking ceremony. Once you have taken the oath, you can officially begin your career as a licensed real estate broker.

Keep in mind that being a real estate broker comes with responsibilities and ethical considerations. Ensure that you stay updated with the latest laws, regulations, and professional practices in the real estate industry. Continuing education and professional development are essential for success and maintaining your license.

Video: A Day in the Life of a real estate agent/broker | Randy Lucero Vlog #4

Join real estate professional/vlogger Randy Lucero as he takes you on a captivating journey through his daily experiences in the bustling world of real estate.

From dawn till dusk, witness the fast-paced and dynamic nature of his profession as he showcases the challenges and rewards of being a real estate agent or broker.

Follow the vlogger as he navigates through property viewings, client meetings, negotiations, and paperwork, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the intricacies of the real estate industry.

With his charismatic personality and expertise, Randy Lucero offers valuable insights, tips, and tricks that aspiring agents and brokers can benefit from.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a real estate agent and a real estate broker?

A real estate agent is an individual who assists clients in buying, selling, or renting properties, while a real estate broker is licensed to operate their own real estate firm and can hire and manage agents.

2. Do I need a license to become a real estate agent in the Philippines?

Yes, you need to obtain a license from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to legally practice as a real estate agent in the Philippines.

3. How do I become a licensed real estate agent in the Philippines?

To become a licensed real estate agent, you must complete a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Management (BS REM) or its equivalent, pass the licensure examination administered by the PRC, and register as a licensed real estate agent.

4. Can I become a real estate agent without a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Management?

Yes, you can become a real estate agent without a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Management. However, you must complete a comprehensive training program offered by accredited real estate service providers and pass the accreditation examination conducted by the PRC.

5. How often are the licensure exams for real estate agents conducted?

The licensure exams for real estate agents are typically conducted by the PRC once a year, although the exact schedule may vary. It is advisable to regularly check the PRC website or official announcements for updates on examination schedules.

6. How much does it cost to take the licensure exam for real estate agents?

The examination fee for real estate agents is determined by the PRC and is subject to change. As of the latest information available, the examination fee is around Php 900.00.

7. How long does it take to process the license after passing the exam?

The processing time for the license after passing the examination can vary. On average, it takes a few weeks to a couple of months for the PRC to process and release the licenses. You can check the PRC website or contact their office for specific information regarding the processing timeline.

8. Can foreign nationals become licensed real estate agents in the Philippines?

Foreign nationals are generally not allowed to become licensed real estate agents in the Philippines. The practice of real estate brokerage is restricted to Filipino citizens. However, foreign nationals may engage in real estate transactions through authorized representatives or by forming partnerships with Filipino citizens or corporations.

Summary

In conclusion, the world of real estate in the Philippines offers a multitude of opportunities for those with a passion for property and a drive to excel.

Whether you possess a natural talent or are willing to invest time and effort into honing your skills, becoming a licensed real estate agent or broker can lead to a fulfilling and prosperous career.

By embracing the necessary qualifications and gaining a deep understanding of the real estate market, you can embark on a journey where you not only assist clients in finding their ideal properties but also contribute to their happiness and financial growth.

The path to becoming a licensed real estate professional may involve education, examinations, and accreditation, but the rewards are well worth the investment.

If you feel drawn to the excitement of real estate, the satisfaction of helping others, and the potential for personal and professional success, don’t hesitate to explore the steps and requirements outlined in this guide.

Embrace the opportunities that await you and embark on a fulfilling journey in the dynamic world of real estate in the Philippines!