“I’ve just been brought up with my family doing it… My uncle does it and so does my Dad,” the 17-year-old said. 

“I decided to earn a qualification in real estate while I was at school because I knew what I wanted to do. I just wanted to get on with it.”

Pipah completed her Certificate III in Property Services through TAFE NSW while she was still at school and, since graduating, has secured a job in real estate.

She left Woonona High at the end of year 11 and is currently working full-time at Rentals 101 in Fairy Meadow as a property officer. 

The teenager is also now studying a Certificate IV in Property Services at TAFE Wollongong. 

Her work includes helping co-ordinate repairs to properties, going on routine house visits and open houses, and “a bit of sales as well”. 

Her career goal is to eventually work in property sales. 

“When I finish the Certificate IV I’ll have my license; I finish at the end of this year,” she said. 

In March, a bill that would lift education standards across the property services industry was passed and is expected to come into effect from July 1.

The move would result in industry education requirements increasing by 600 per cent, according to the Real Estate Institute of NSW.

“I’m glad they’re changing it, so you don’t get those people that just do it (become fully qualified) in a week and rip people off and what not,” Pipah said. 

The proposed changes have prompted TAFE Illawarra Property Services teacher Murray Bergmeier to encourage people considering a new career in real estate to be prepared, be qualified and be ready to go.

“Working in real estate is an attractive option for many people considering a career change,” Mr Bergmeier said.

“With a strong property market, there appears to be plenty of work available for people who have recognised qualifications.”

TAFE NSW offers a Statement of Attainment, a short course which can be completed on campus or online in one week. It’s a way to get an insight into the industry before committing to an advanced course.

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