Earlier this year, the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) permitted existing salespersons who have not passed the industry examination, but have completed at least three property transactions over the last two years (before the CEA’s formation), to continue their work as salespersons on a provisional basis.
These provisionally registered salespersons were, however, then required to pass the RES examination by 31 December 2011.
As of 31 August, 2,753 of 33,054 registered salespersons were given provisional registration.
Meanwhile, the deadline for the RES examination has been extended by the council to 30 June 2012.
In addition, their provisional registration will be extended to 31 December 2012, subject to passing the examination. Those who fail the exam will see their registration expire after 30 June 2012.
Similar treatment will apply to Key Executive Officers (KEOs), partners and practising directors who are also required to pass the examination.
According to the council, English has to be the basis for the exam, as the forms and documents pertaining to real estate transactions in the country are in English. Property agents must be able to guide their clients before they sign any contracts or documents. Thus, it is important for them to fully understand the government policies, procedures and documents, which are in English.
“CEA is mindful that some salespersons may need more time to pass the RES examination. The extension will thus help them to better prepare for the examination. CEA will work with the estate agents closely to ensure that their salespersons take the examination by the deadline,” said Purnima Shantilal, Director (Licensing and Investigation) of CEA.
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