Trainee estate agents may not need formal education to enter this competitive and demanding profession, but good communications and negotiation skills are essential. Trainees must also be sympathetic towards clients during the stressful processes of selling or buying properties
Trainees usually accompany more experienced agents on viewings during their first weeks on the job. As weeks and months progress, entry-level staff will then conduct their own viewings under the supervision of more experienced agents who provide feedback, in preparation for their conducting viewings entirely on their own when the agency deems they are ready.
Trainees also answer telephones, file, photocopy, and do other clerical work as they learn more about the full range of duties. The in-house induction process usually takes between one and two weeks, but it takes roughly three months before new employees are ready to handle viewings and sales negotiations on their own
Many new entrants to the job also spend several years as clerical assistants or receptionists, or study related subjects such as property studies management. Most trainee positions pay between £10,000 and £20,000 per year, with excellent chances of advancement for those determined to be successful.