Kim Ashton, manager of the Western Cape Institute of Estate Agents’ PropPlacements division, reports that this year she has found positions in property for 52 candidates - 41 residential and rental agents; four interns to real estate and seven administrative staff.
“This,” said Ashton, “could give the impression that we are heading for another property boom but in reality many agents this year have had a rough ride.”
Now that the Christmas break is approaching agents may well find that they are short of funds.
“In the circumstances,” said Ashton, “perhaps it is time that the estate agency world adopted the practice of many corporates and smaller businesses of awarding some sort of December bonus to both administrative staff and agents.
Bonuses, she said, are not in any way obligatory in SA labour law and often, if they are paid, are strictly performance related but she would like to see agencies awarding a further 1% commission to agents on any deals done over the December break (when sales tend to be fewer) and “thank you” handouts made to the admin staff. These could possibly be paid upfront (i.e. before Christmas) on the understanding that if a sale falls through the agent will accept a commission reduction later.
“The estate agency world,” said Ashton, “is strong on incentives but still lacks certain perks.
“An IEASA committee member, Samuel Seeff, has pointed out that almost no agencies offer medical aid. This, too, should, I feel, now be considered. With the rise in status being brought about by the new educational qualifications, agents should have the extra benefits of other professionals.”
Readers' Comments Have a comment about this article? Email us now.