How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent in Nigeria

Last Updated on January 26, 2024

Introduction

In Nigeria, the real estate industry has been experiencing significant growth in recent years. As investments pour into the economy, more properties are being developed, and demand for professional expertise is on the rise.

Becoming a licensed real estate agent is critical to working in this industry as it increases credibility, opens new doors, and ensures adherence to the professional standards of the field.

However, the path to becoming a licensed real estate agent can be confusing and requires proper guidance. This blog post aims to provide a clear overview of the steps required to become a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria.

From understanding the requirements to the registration process, we will answer some of the common questions that aspiring real estate agents may have.

Furthermore, this article is significant because it will reveal the advantages of becoming a professional practitioner in the real estate industry. Real estate agents in Nigeria can earn lucrative commissions, enjoy a flexible schedule, and gain networking opportunities by becoming licensed professionals.

Real estate is a booming industry in Nigeria, and the demand for licensed professionals is on the rise. Being a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria is a crucial step towards having a successful career in the field.

As an aspiring real estate agent, you’ll learn essential information on how to start your journey towards a fulfilling career in real estate.

Eligibility Requirements for Becoming a Licensed Real Estate Agent

To become a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria, you must meet these eligibility requirements:

1. Age requirement: Be at least 21 years old.
   
   
2. Educational requirement: Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
   
   
3. Character requirement: Possess good character with no fraud-related convictions.
   
   
4. Resident and citizenship requirement: Be a Nigerian citizen and a resident of the state seeking licensing.
   
   
5. Experience requirement: Complete a one-year apprenticeship under a registered estate surveyor and valuer’s supervision.

These requirements ensure that qualified individuals handle real estate duties and maintain industry integrity.

The age requirement ensures maturity to handle professional responsibilities. The educational requirement ensures a basic level of education necessary for the profession.

Maintaining good character is crucial for industry integrity. The resident and citizenship requirement ensures local market familiarity.

In addition, the experience requirement ensures practical knowledge before licensure. Note that requirements may change; consult relevant authorities before embarking on the licensing process.

Read: Profiles: Leading Real Estate Firms in Nigeria Today

Pre-Licensing Education

Getting a real estate license in Nigeria requires thorough education, so pre-licensing courses are crucial. These courses offer essential knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the industry, which is why it’s a mandatory requirement.

Pre-licensing education provides knowledge of ethical and legal regulations surrounding the real estate industry. Additionally, it covers topics such as selling and purchasing procedures and relevant financial and accounting skills.

One of the significant benefits of pre-licensing education is that it prepares aspiring agents for the licensing examination by equipping them with crucial industry knowledge. It also helps establish a strong foundation to build a successful career.

Accredited Institutions in Nigeria Offering Pre-Licensing Courses

Several accredited institutions in Nigeria offer pre-licensing courses for aspiring real estate agents. One of such institution is the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN).

REDAN, which is the umbrella body of all real estate developers in Nigeria, offers a real estate pre-licensing course. The course is designed to provide candidates with the fundamentals of real estate, ethical practices, and guidelines.

Other reputable institutions that offer pre-licensing courses include the Real Estate Regulatory Council of Nigeria (LACoN), the Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), and several universities nationwide.

Before enrolling in any of the courses these institutions offer, it’s necessary to ascertain the institution’s accreditation status and course curriculum to ensure it meets industry standards.

Duration and Cost of Pre-Licensing Courses

The duration and cost of pre-licensing courses vary from one institution to another. The duration of pre-licensing courses in Nigeria ranges from a few weeks to several months.

Generally, the courses are designed to provide aspiring agents with the needed knowledge and skills to pass the licensing examination. However, aspiring agents can also opt for self-study, which could take longer to complete.

The cost of pre-licensing courses also varies across institutions. On average, pre-licensing courses could cost between N50,000 to N200,000 for full-time study.

However, some institutions offer discounts for self-study, part-time study, or group enrolment.

Pre-licensing education is an essential part of becoming a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria. It offers the necessary foundation and knowledge to excel in the industry beyond obtaining a license.

Aspiring agents should evaluate institutions offering pre-licensing courses to determine which one best suits their career goals and budget.

Read: Role of Government in Boosting Construction in Nigeria

Registering for the Real Estate Examination in Nigeria

Requirements for registering for the examination

To become a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria, you must first register and pass the Real Estate Examination. Here are the requirements for registering for the examination:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
  
  
• You must have completed a recognized real estate course or apprenticeship program.
  
  
• You must have a minimum of 2 years of verifiable practical experience in the real estate industry.
  
  
• You must not have been convicted of any criminal offence.

Process of registering for the examination

The process of registering for the Real Estate Examination in Nigeria is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Obtain an application form from the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON) office or download it from their website.
   
   
2. Fill out the application form and attach the required documents, such as your certificate of completion of a recognized real estate course, proof of practical experience, and a passport photograph.
   
   
3. Pay the examination fees at the designated bank and obtain a receipt.
   
   
4. Submit the completed application form, along with the required documents and the bank receipt, to the nearest ESVARBON office.
   
   
5. ESVARBON will review your application, and if everything is in order, you will receive an examination permit.

Examination format and duration

The Real Estate Examination in Nigeria comprises two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2. Each paper consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll have three hours to complete each paper.

The examination covers various areas of real estate, such as land economics, valuation, property law, estate agency, and property management.

Examination fees

The examination fees for the Real Estate Examination in Nigeria vary depending on whether you’re a fresh candidate or a re-sitter. As of 2021, the fees are:

• Fresh candidates: ₦50,000
  
  
• Re-sitters (one paper): ₦25,000
  
  
• Re-sitters (both papers): ₦50,000

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s best to confirm the current fees at the ESVARBON office before making any payments.

Registering for the Real Estate Examination in Nigeria requires that you meet certain requirements and follow a straightforward process.

Once you pass the examination, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a licensed real estate agent and pursuing a career in the dynamic and lucrative real estate industry in Nigeria.

Read: Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on Nigerian Real Estate

Preparing for the Real Estate Examination in Nigeria

Syllabus for the examination

To become a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria, you must pass the Real Estate Examination. To prepare for this examination, it is essential that you have a thorough understanding of the syllabus.

The examination covers topics such as real estate law, property valuation, property management, and real estate marketing. Ensure that you attain a comprehensive understanding of these topics.

Recommended study materials

Apart from the knowledge of the syllabus, you also need to have the right study materials to aid your preparation for the examination.

Recommended study materials include textbooks, reference guides, study manuals, and online resources. You can visit the Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers’ website for available study materials.

Best study approaches

The Real Estate Examination is a challenging exam, but with the right approach, you can ace it. Here are some tips for preparing:

1. Create a study plan: Make a schedule that includes the topics you need to cover and subjects you need to review.
   
   
2. Join a study group: Studying with others can help you stay motivated, and it can also be a valuable way to learn.
   
   
3. Take breaks: Do not cram; take a break when you feel overwhelmed.
   
   
4. Practice: Keep practicing with past questions and other online tests; solving as many questions as possible will help to improve your knowledge.

Practice questions and mock tests

One of the best ways to prepare for the Real Estate Examination is by practicing questions and taking mock tests.

Practicing questions and taking mock tests can help you develop exam-taking skills and give you an idea of how the actual exam might be. It’s also an excellent way to identify your weak areas, track your progress, and work on improving.

To pass the Real Estate Examination in Nigeria, you need to have a comprehensive understanding of the syllabus and access the right study materials.

Adopting the right study approach and practicing questions and mock tests will also improve your chances of success.

Read: The Silent Revolution: How AI is Transforming Professional Jobs in Nigeria

Taking the Real Estate Examination

Examination Day Procedures

1. Arrive at the designated testing center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time.
   
   
2. Bring a valid identification card with a photo and signature, such as a driver’s license or passport.
   
   
3. Leave your personal belongings, including cell phones and smartwatches, in a locker provided by the testing center.
   
   
4. Listen to the instructions given by the proctor before the exam starts.

Tips for Passing the Examination

1. Study diligently to understand the concepts and principles involved in real estate transactions.
   
   
2. Use review materials, such as study guides and practice exams, to familiarize yourself with the format of the actual test.
   
   
3. Pay attention to the wording of questions and answer choices to avoid confusion or misunderstanding.
   
   
4. Manage your time wisely during the exam by pacing yourself and not spending too much time on any one question.

What Happens After the Examination?

1. Receive your exam result immediately after completing the test.
   
   
2. If you pass, proceed to the next step of applying for a license.
   
   
3. If you fail, review your exam result and identify areas where you need to improve. You can retake the exam after a waiting period.
   
   
4. Pay the required license fee to the appropriate regulatory authority within a certain period of time.
   
   
5. Submit all necessary documents, such as proof of education and training, to the regulatory authority for verification.
   
   
6. Obtain your real estate license and start practicing! Congratulations!

Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria requires not only the completion of required education and training but also passing the national examination.

On the day of the exam, examinees should arrive early, bring a valid identification card, and follow the instructions given by the proctor.

It is also important to study diligently, use review materials, pay attention to the wording of questions, and manage time wisely during the exam.

After the exam, examinees can receive their results immediately. If they pass, they should proceed to the next step of applying for a license.

If they fail, examinees can retake the exam after a waiting period and review their exam results to identify areas where they need to improve.

It is important to pay the required license fee and submit all necessary documents, such as proof of education and training, to the regulatory authority for verification.

In a nutshell, obtaining a real estate license means starting a new career in the exciting world of real estate transactions.

Read: Sustainable Building Practices in Nigeria’s Construction

Obtaining a Real Estate Agent License in Nigeria

Criteria for Obtaining a License

To become a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Be at least 21 years old.
   
   
2. Have at least a secondary school certificate or its equivalent.
   
   
3. Complete a real estate agent training program from a recognized institution.
   
   
4. Pass the licensing examination administered by the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON).
   
   
5. Submit an application with all necessary documents and fees to ESVARBON.

Duration of the License

A real estate agent license in Nigeria is valid for a period of three years. However, the license can be suspended or revoked if the licensee violates any of the regulations set by ESVARBON.

Renewal of the License

To renew your real estate agent license in Nigeria, you must complete a mandatory continuing education course and submit an application with the renewal fee to ESVARBON before the expiration of the current license.

Business Opportunities for Licensed Real Estate Agents

Licensed real estate agents in Nigeria have various business opportunities, such as:

1. Buying, selling, and leasing properties for clients.
   
   
2. Representing clients in real estate transactions and negotiations.
   
   
3. Providing property management services to clients.
   
   
4. Conducting property valuations and appraisals.
   
   
5. Offering real estate investment advice to clients.

Real estate is a lucrative industry in Nigeria with high demand for properties in both urban and rural areas. With a valid real estate agent license, you are eligible to engage in the business and earn a good income.

Obtaining a real estate agent license in Nigeria requires meeting certain criteria, passing a licensing examination, and submitting an application to ESVARBON. The license is valid for three years and can be renewed upon completing a mandatory continuing education course.

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Conclusion

Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria requires education, training, and passing licensing exams. Ensure you complete a real estate degree or diploma, followed by a one-year apprenticeship with a licensed firm.

Then, register for and pass the Real Estate Regulatory Authority’s pre-licensing course and exam. Finally, register with the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers and acquire a practising license from the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria.

While the journey can be challenging, the rewards are significant. Stay updated with the industry through seminars, workshops, and networking with professional bodies like NIRESE.

If you have a passion for real estate and helping others find their dream homes, take action today and embark on a successful career as a licensed real estate agent in Nigeria!