What does a commercial real estate agent do?

Commercial real estate agents' primary responsibility is to support clients in the buying and selling of commercial property. They provide advice on the market, sale and purchase methods, as well as how to best structure the terms of settlement on a commercial property. Many commercial real estate agents also manage leases on commercial property and do things like advertise for new tenants, negotiate and manage tenancy agreements as well as coordinate maintenance requests.

Tasks:

  • Buy and sell commercial property and businesses
  • Provide advice to clients on sale methods, market values and terms of settlement
  • Arrange property advertising
  • Manage commercial property tenancies
  • Coordinate maintenance

What skills do I need to be a commercial real estate agent?

Commercial real estate agents often work in stressful environments involving large financial implications for clients, so must be able to handle stress well. They must also have good people skills and be capable communicators. A comprehensive understanding of property law and the current property market is essential, as are negotiation and contract management skills.

Skills/attributes
  • Level-headed under stress
  • Strong people skills
  • Effective at verbal and written communication
  • Thorough understanding of property law
  • Contract negotiation and management abilities
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Specialisations

There are a number of ways in which commercial real estate agents can specialise. One options is to focus on particular types of commercial properties and businesses. Another is to move into a management role as an estate agency principal or owner.

Specialised Commercial Real Estate Agency

Many commercial real estate agents decide to specialise in one type of property or business, for example retail spaces or rural properties. This allows them to focus their attention on a small part of the larger real estate market, and gain a better understanding of their particular area. This enables them to offer improved service to clients seeking to buy and sell that type of commercial property, and to build on their own reputation to increase demand for their services.

Real Estate Agent Principal

Many commercial real estate agents decide to move into estate agency principal roles after a period of time. These roles oversee all aspects of the day-to-day operations of a real estate agency, and generally include staff and budget management and well as business advertising and promotions, on top of the usual responsibilities of a real estate agent. Some principals own their own franchise or business, and others are acting as manager for the business owner.

Study pathways for commercial real estate agents

It is recommended that commercial real estate agents complete a minimum of a certificate III level qualification, as well as the short course required for state registration.

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Getting Started

A starting point for those interested in a career in commercial real estate can be a short course, such as those on property investment or law.

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Skill Building

Commercial real estate agents wishing to build their skills in this area can undertake bachelor level qualifications to gain an advanced understanding of the real estate industry.

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Professional Development

A Master of Business Administration can be an excellent option for those commercial real estate agents wishing to move into business ownership or estate agency principal roles.

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Industry Recognition

Each state in Australia has its own process for becoming a registered real estate agent. Registration requires the completion of a short course relevant to the state in which you will be working.

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Getting a job after graduation

Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your real estate career. Take a look at our sample resume and cover letter and put your best foot forward when you apply for commercial real estate agent jobs.

Job Prospects and Salaries

Real estate is a growing industry in Australia, and jobs in this area are projected to continue increasing strongly. Salaries tend to be slightly below the average but can vary based on the property market in which the agent is working.

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