How do you get started in the real estate industry with no experience?

The question of how to get started in real estate is a challenging one as it will be dependent on what transferrable skills you may have from previous employment and what roles you are seeking.

Recently out of high school

If you are just out of school approaching some of your local agencies and considering a traineeship is a great way to get a start. Steps to take:

1. Draft up a CV. This should include:

• A paragraph or two of why you want to be in real estate
• If you want to demonstrate your intelligence and initiative you could include a paragraph titled “Benefits to you” including the skills and qualities that you bring to the company. You could also research and highlight the fact that in most states there is a government funded rebate to an employer for taking on a trainee. 
• Clubs and associations you have been involved with at school
• Awards or achievements
• Work experience you have undertaken 

2. One to two references (i.e. from school or work experience) Research local agencies that have a good reputation. Make a list of the companies, their addresses and the name of the Principal, Hiring Manager or Office Manager at each. Address an A4 envelope to the contact at each agency and place a copy of your CV within.

3. Dress as if you would if you were going for an interview or to a day of work and visit each. You are best to ask to see each contact. If they are unavailable, leave your envelope and ensure you call within 24 – 48 hours of delivering to follow up and get their feedback.

Changing careers

If you have worked within another industry and are having a change of career to real estate, you are best to undertake your Certificate of Registration to demonstrate your commitment and readiness 

The second step is to evaluate the skills that you are bringing in to the industry and whether you want to be administrative, sales or property management focused.

Tailor your CV cover letter towards one of these options.

You may like to undertake some of the steps suggested above with regard to approaching local agencies.

Alternatively, form relationships with a good local recruiter who specialises in real estate and can assist you with advice and guide you towards reputable businesses with solid track-records of training and mentoring new entrants to success.