7 Critical skills needed for jobs in the real estate sector 2021

Being the second-largest employer of the country, the real estate sector can be promising and challenging career option at the same time. However, to succeed in this field, you must learn some mandatory skills. 

If you have remained surprised by the buildings and skyscrapers while growing up, a career in the real estate and construction sector can be a promising choice. From relationship manager to liaison and sales executives, there are multitude of roles to make a start in the real estate market. However, as with other jobs, you must be job-ready with a bunch of skills to succeed and grow in the hierarchy in property industry.

Proficiency with skills like basic computation of construction input cost, a rough idea of of appreciation, knowledge of regulations related to stamp duty, property tax and registration charges, and primary knowledge of specific building codes etc., come in handy for an aspiring real estate executive. Here is a list of five good to have skills needed for getting a job in a real estate organisation:

Interpersonal Communication skills

If you are entering into a career in the real estate market, be prepared for several face to face dealings with the potential homebuyers. Excellent verbal communication skills are the core part of the profession. The managers must be able to lay bare the characteristics of the project in layman’s language.

As real estate investment is a heavily cost-intensive decision, one must be able to clearly put forth the highs and lows as well as the estimated ‘Return-on-Investment’ (ROI) clearly. You can inculcate these skills gradually by rehearsing in front of a mirror and taking inputs (sometimes negative) from your colleagues about your body language and gestures.

Listening thoroughly

In combination with effective speaking skills, active listening to the client is very important. Attentively listening to the core needs of the potential customer is essential. This way, you will be able to suggest to him the housing options in the given budget range and denominations.

Being energetic, honest and empathetic with the homebuyer will automatically ignite your interest in him or her. You can also inculcate active listening skills by paying heed to online podcasts and preparing notes from them.

Superb Negotiation skills

It is business after all. You should be able to convince the homebuyer that they are investing in the right property. However, as property investment is heavy on the pocket decision, be ready to face a lot of questions and of course doubts.

Be diligent with the details and spell them out effectively. Satisfying the homebuyers with all their questions and being clear and honest will keep you in the right stead. Learn to negotiate with the customer effectively and politely. Following up a potential customer is also a part of the process, and you should be active in keeping track of a potential lead.

Tech-savvy

Being tech-savvy is not about being a computer geek. It is about key computer skills such as making quick PowerPoint presentations, excel data sheets, and use of social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Being used-to with technology saves a lot of energy and time and lets people better manage your potential clientele. You must be proficient in at least Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Docs for lucrative career prospects and progression.

Local dialect and cues

Be ready to meet customers from all income groups and backgrounds. While negotiating with an international buyer, you must be confident with requisite mannerisms. While talking to a local native client, you might have to remember some local sayings and anecdotes, to serve them properly. A hang of the local dialects, societal nitty gritty and using them to lock the deal will be hugely useful. Moreover, enthusiasm for your job will naturally impel you to know more about the people and the geography around.

You must be familiar with various online property listings portals to know about the latest price trends. You can also consider online websites covering property and construction news and views.

In summation, patience is the key to success. Being an active listener and an excellent communicator with an energetic attitude can help you build a promising career in the real estate industry.

Mr. Annuj Goel, MD, Goel Ganga Developments