Understanding the New NQF4 Occupational Certificate

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Legacy Courses vs. Occupational Certificates

Previously, qualifications for Property Practitioners were based on qualifications that fell under the Further Education and Training Certificate (FETC) system, managed by the SERVICES SETA. As of 1 July 2024, these have been replaced by Occupational Certificates, which are overseen by The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).

What is an Occupational Certificate?

An Occupational Certificate is a nationally recognised qualification awarded to individuals who have demonstrated competence in a specific occupation or trade. This certificate is:

  • Industry-Standard: It aligns with the standards set by the industry to ensure relevance and applicability.
  • Skill-Focused: Designed to equip learners with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in their chosen field.
  • Work-Integrated: Includes components that provide real-world work experience, ensuring that property practitioners are industry-ready.

The New Qualification: Occupational Certificate: Real Estate Agent (SAQA ID 118714)

The QCTO has introduced the Occupational Certificate: Real Estate Agent, identified by SAQA ID 118714. This new qualification is structured to offer comprehensive training that includes the following components:

  • Knowledge Modules: These modules provide the theoretical foundation necessary for understanding the principles and practices of real estate.
  • Simulated Practical Modules: These modules allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in controlled, simulated environments that mimic real-world scenarios.
  • Work Experience Modules: These modules involve actual work experience under the supervision of a qualified mentor or principal, offering hands-on training in real estate activities.
  • External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA): Ensure a uniform standard for the industry’s qualification.

Occupational Certificate: Real Estate Agent (SAQA ID 118714)

Benefits of the New Qualification

The shift to the Occupational Certificate system brings several benefits for aspiring and existing Property Practitioners:

  • Relevance: The curriculum is designed to meet current industry demands and standards, ensuring that graduates have the skills needed in today’s market.
  • Comprehensive Training: The combination of knowledge, simulated practice, and real-world experience provides a well-rounded education.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of the Occupational Certificate: Real Estate Agent represents a significant advancement in the training and certification of Property Practitioners in South Africa. By aligning education with industry standards and emphasizing practical skills and work experience, the QCTO ensures that new graduates are well-prepared to succeed in the dynamic field of real estate.

As the industry continues to evolve, these changes highlight the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. For aspiring Property Practitioners, this new qualification pathway offers a clear, structured route to achieving professional excellence and recognition.

Stay informed and embrace these changes to stay ahead in your real estate career!

Major Changes in the South African Real Estate Industry

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Are you considering becoming a registered property practitioner in South Africa?

On 1 July 2024, the South African real estate industry witnessed significant changes that have redefined the landscape for Property Practitioners. The transition from legacy courses to new Occupational Qualifications marks a new era in professional development and certification within the industry.

Whether you’re new to the field or already have some qualifications, this guide will help you navigate the process of becoming a Property Practitioner.

For those with no prior qualifications or Equivalency Exemptions from the PPRA, here is a step-by-step guide to becoming a registered Candidate Property Practitioner:

  1. Register for an FFC at the PPRA
    • Required documents: a letter of employment, a certified ID, and the agency pin (usually starting with an “F”).
    • Condition: Enroll in the occupational qualification within 180 days.
  2. Enroll with an Accredited Skills Development Provider
    • Choose a provider like PropAcademy to complete your Occupational Certificate: Real Estate Agent.
  3. Complete the Knowledge and Simulated Practical Modules
    • These modules can be completed independently. Together, they provide 75 credits and should take approximately 3 months to complete.
  4. Register for an FFC if Not Done Previously
    • Provide certified proof of completion of the Knowledge and Simulated Practical Modules.
    • You will then have 180 days to complete the Work Experience Modules.
  5. Complete the Work Experience Modules
    • This must be done under the supervision of a Mentor or Principal you will have 6 months to complete this.
  6. Write the EISA
    • After completing the Work Experience Modules, you are eligible to write the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA).
  7. Qualification Award
    • Upon passing the EISA, your qualification will be recorded by the PPRA, making you eligible to write the Professional Designation Exam (PDE) 4.
  8. Pass the PDE 4
    • After passing this exam, the PPRA will award you the professional designation PPRE.
    • Keep in mind you would have to write this exam before you can renew your FFC again.
  9. Upgrade to Non-Principal Property Practitioner
    • You will also be upgraded from a Candidate Property Practitioner to a non-principal Property Practitioner.

If you have formal qualifications or Equivalency Exemptions from the PPRA, follow these steps to register as a Candidate Property Practitioner and obtain a Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC):

  1. Register for an FFC at the PPRA
    • Gather the necessary documents: a letter of employment, a certified ID, and the agency pin (typically starting with an “F”).
  2. Commence Practical Training
    • Start the 6 practical training modules in the workplace immediately after receiving your FFC.
    • Training must be conducted under the direct supervision of a Mentor or Principal.
  3. Complete Practical Training Modules
    • Finish the 6 practical modules within 180 days from the date your FFC is issued.
    • Submit a confirmation of completion of these modules to the PPRA.
  4. Submit Confirmation of Completion
    • The PPRA must receive and approve the confirmation letter of completion of the 6 practical modules.
  5. Write the PDE 4
    • Once the PPRA approves your completion of the practical modules, you are eligible to write the Professional Designation Exam (PDE) 4.
  6. Earn the PPRE Designation
    • After successfully passing the PDE 4, the PPRA will award you the professional designation PPRE.
  7. Upgrade to Non-Principal Property Practitioner
    • You will be upgraded from Candidate Property Practitioner to a non-principal Property Practitioner.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the process to become a registered property practitioner may seem daunting, but with the right steps and timely actions, you can achieve your career goals. Stay organized, keep track of deadlines, and take advantage of resources like accredited Skills Development Providers to support your journey.

Good luck on your path to becoming a certified Property Practitioner in South Africa!

EISA – Occupational Certificate: NQF Level 4: Real Estate: SAQA ID 118714

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With the replacement of the NQF4 qualification taking effect on 1 July 2024, there is now a requirement to complete an EISA. Many of you are wondering what this means for you as PropAcademy learners.

What is an EISA?

The External Integrated Summative Assessment [EISA] is the crucial final exam that learners must pass to earn their accreditation in their NQF4 118714.

Managed and conducted by the Assessment Quality Partner (AQP) specific to each qualification, the EISA evaluates learners on the essential skills and knowledge required for their chosen field, such as real estate.

When do you need to complete this exam?

Here are the steps you need to follow:

  • Enrol and complete the OC: NQF4 SAQA ID 118714.
  • Once you have completed the Knowledge and Practical modules, submit valid and certified proof of completion and/or statement of results to the PPRA.
  • Then register and receive your FFC as a candidate and immediately commence with the Workplace module. Which must be completed within 180 days of being issued an FFC.
  • Upon completion, submit a valid and certified proof of completion and statement of results.
  • Once the EISA is completed and the qualification awarded, a candidate becomes eligible to write PDE4.
  • Upon passing PDE4, they become non-principal property practitioners.

Why is EISA Important?

The EISA plays a critical role in ensuring that learners are truly competent in the skills they have studied, much like Grade 12 exams. By standardising the final assessment, it promotes integrity and reduces the risk of unethical practices among training providers. Furthermore, the EISA focuses on relevant skills that are directly applicable to the job market, rather than testing generic and less applicable knowledge.

It’s not yet clear how the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and the PPRA will manage the EISA on a national level. Additionally, we need more information on how the EISA will be scheduled and coordinated to accommodate all learners across various accredited providers. Finally, ensuring the security of the question papers to prevent leaks before the assessment is a crucial concern. Stay tuned for updates from the QCTO as we learn more about the practical implementation of the EISA.

Embrace Continued Growth: PropAcademy Highlights the 2024 CPD Program

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PropAcademy, in alignment with the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA), is thrilled to announce the commencement of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program for the year 2024. This initiative underscores our commitment to uphold the highest standards in the real estate sector and to support the continuous professional growth of property practitioners.

Enhancing Professional Skills

The CPD program is designed as a crucial platform for real estate professionals to sharpen their skills, stay current with evolving industry trends, and meet ongoing educational mandates. It’s an opportunity for practitioners to not only enhance their capabilities but also to ensure they remain at the forefront of the real estate profession.

Important Updates to the CPD Policy

The PPRA has made significant updates to the CPD policy for 2024:

  • Immediate Participation: Property practitioners who have successfully passed the PDE4 between February and June 2024 can now enroll in the CPD program within the same calendar year.
  • Subsequent Year Participation: Those passing the PDE4 from July to November will be eligible to join the CPD program in the subsequent calendar year, as they are upgraded to non-principal property practitioner status.

Enrollment and Compliance Details

  • CPD Fee: The fee for the 2024/2025 financial year has been set at R1,700 per participant. Ensure to use your seven-digit reference number when making payments and retain all payment records for verification purposes.
  • Personal Development Plan (PDP): Each practitioner is required to complete their Personal Development Plan, aligning it with their professional objectives before enrolling in the CPD e-Learning program.
  • Module Completion: Participants must complete four CPD modules annually, as stipulated by the relevant regulations. This year, a wider selection of modules is available, allowing you to tailor your learning to your specific professional needs.

Seeking Further Information?

Should you have any inquiries or require assistance regarding the CPD program, please feel free to reach out to the PPRA’s Education, Professionalisation, and CPD Department or contact PropAcademy for guidance tailored to your professional journey.

This initiative is part of our ongoing effort to ensure that property practitioners are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in an ever-changing market. At PropAcademy, we are dedicated to your continued success and professional development.

Disclaimer: This article is based on information provided by the PPRA. PropAcademy is not responsible for any changes to the regulations or guidelines that may occur after the date of this publication.

CPD: The Way Forward

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Revamping CPD: A New Direction for Estate Agents’ Professional Development

In December 2023, the Property Principal Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA) issued a notice to all estate agents obligated to accrue Continual Professional Development (CPD) points as part of their ongoing education.

The key points of this notice include:

  • All payments, up to and including for 2023, must be current.
  • CPD points outstanding from before 2023 are no longer required.
  • Your CPD Personal Development Plan (PDP) for 2024 must be completed.
  • The previous categorisation of CPD points into Verifiable and Non-Verifiable is now discontinued.
  • Going forward, four modules per annum must be completed. These can be found on your MyCPD PPRA Portal once released.
  • These modules may be completed via your PPRA MyCPD Portal or with a provider accredited by the PPRA.

Who is eligible to complete CPD annual modules?

  • Full Status agents, known as non-principal property practitioners, are eligible.
  • All non-principal practitioners qualify for CPD the year following the achievement of their new non-principal status, as recorded on their PPRA MyPortal.
  • All principal property practitioners are eligible for CPD.

This notice marks a significant shift in the approach to CPD, simplifying the process while ensuring that all practitioners continue to develop their professional skills. It’s essential for all estate agents to stay informed of these changes and ensure they comply with the new requirements to maintain their professional standing and continue providing high-quality service in the real estate industry.

Managing Agents and the PPRA – Simplified

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Why do Managing Agents, who do not sell or rent properties, need to register with the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority, and why must they hold a Fidelity Fund Certificate?

All property practitioners are required to register with the PPRA and hold a FFC. Property practitioners are defined as individuals who interact with the public in dealings related to immovable property. The PPRA regulates property practitioners and mandates the holding of a FFC to protect the public against any malpractices by a property practitioner through the FFC insurance.

Anyone liaising with a Landlord or Seller, a Tenant or Buyer during a property transaction must hold an FFC. Similarly, anyone who has access to or transacts with Buyer or Tenant funds, held in the firm’s trust account, must also hold an FFC.

Thus, a Managing Agent is considered a property practitioner.

Given that not all specialised property fields involve selling and renting properties, the PPRA issues FFCs specific to each specialised industry. These specialised FFCs require the completion of a qualification specific to their function. Currently, ServicesSETA and the PPRA are developing a qualification for Managing Agents, expected to be ready by late 2024. A Code of Conduct for Managing Agents is also under development.

Who in a Managing Agency must hold an FFC?

  • All administrative staff involved in property management;
  • Portfolio managers who attend meetings or process payments;
  • Bookkeepers who manage the trust account and have access to the bank account of the body corporate;
  • Directors overseeing operations.

What type of FFC must a Managing Agent hold?

  • A specific Managing Agent FFC;
  • If the agency or property practitioner also deals in sales or rentals, they must also hold a Real Estate FFC.
  • Any previously held FFC will be cancelled, and a new one will be issued.

When are Managing Agency FFCs available?

The PPRA has been issuing Managing Agency FFCs since December 2023. All Managing Agents are required to apply for a Managing Agency FFC immediately.

How do I apply for my Managing Agency FFC?

Under the Property Practitioners Act 22 of 2019, each category of real estate must have a separate FFC and qualification. To obtain your Managing Agent FFC, you must:

  • Complete the E1 Exemption form and request an exemption from Regulation 33;
  • Complete the FFC application form on the PPRA website, follow the prompts, and attach the required documents.

Yes, there is a charge every time an FFC is issued according to the Act and Regulations. These charges are listed on the PPRA website.

What prerequisite is required to register for the Managing Agent qualification?

As the course is still under development, prerequisites have not yet been disclosed. It is anticipated that the prerequisite will align with the NQF4 Real Estate 118714, which requires holding an NQF3 or Grade 11 certificate.

How do I apply for an exemption against the Managing Agent qualification?

The PPRA will consider exemptions for individuals holding a qualification in Managing Agency or similar. A policy will be provided once the qualification has been developed.

Revolutionising PDE: Introducing the Take-Home Exam

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On 29th February 2024, learners will experience the flexibility of PDE like never before. In an attempt to address the recent PDE constraints, the PPRA has introduced a pilot project for all registered learners to take part in.

The PPRA has confirmed that you will receive your exam paper at 08h00 via email or download it from the PPRA website. Simply type your answers in the allocated spaces on the MS Word document and submit it back by 16h00 on the same day.

There are many advantages to this approach. You get to enjoy the added benefits of working offline and accessing all your resources. It also promotes more meaningful learning, instead of having to memorise your material.

Notes:

  • The exam is completed in a location of your choice
  • You will not be invigilated
  • You get more time to complete your exam
  • Download/save your exam paper
  • Complete your exam offline
  • You do not need to print your exam paper
  • You will email your exam paper back to the PPRA on completion
  • Your exam starts at 08:00 and must be submitted to the PPRA by 16:00
  • You have full access to online resources and your study material

We at PropAcademy encourage you to embrace this innovative approach to PDE. It has been designed to make your exam experience smoother and more efficient!

For more information on this important communication, please click here.

Get Qualified to Uphold Your Status & Avoid Disqualification

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As per revised clarity notice on 30 June 2023 deadline on compliance with education regulations published by the PPRA.

Given the ongoing hurdles, we feel the pressure placed on you as a Practitioner, so let’s clear things up.

WHAT MAKES ME COMPLIANT?

If you hold Intern/Full Status, then to be compliant within the 24 month period, the following must be marked as competent:

  1. Internship Logbook
  2. NQF4
  3. PDE4

If you hold Principal Status, then to be compliant the following must be marked as competent:

  1. Internship Logbook
  2. NQF4
  3. PDE4
  4. NQF5
  5. PDE5 (within 24 months of holding Principal Status)

WHO IS THE COMPLIANCE DEADLINE FOR?

Candidate/Intern’s who have not complied within 24 months from their first FFC issue date.

Full status agents who have not been found competent in the NQF4 or PDE4.

Principal’s who have not been found competent in the NQF5 or PDE5.

Unless they have proof of exemption.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM NON-COMPLIANT?

If you were non-compliant on the 30th June 2023, then you will be disqualified and automatically blocked on the PPRA portal effective 03 July 2023. This means that you will not be issued with a further FFC when you wish to renew.

Your current FFC remains valid and you can continue to trade until it expires.

SO, HOW DO WE FIX THIS?

This is how you lift your disqualification block.

Submit your application within 60 days of disqualification, requesting an extension of 6 months within which you must become fully compliant. If you do this within 60 days there will be no penalty fee.

The application needs to be made by use of the affidavit which you can download here.

The affidavit must be accompanied with a letter signed by the applicant, together with supporting documents on how the applicant will ensure they will comply within the extended 6 month period.

The application must be submitted to [email protected]

When the PPRA receive the application, they will consider it, approve or reject it, and advise the applicant of the outcome within 30 days.

If the application is approved, the disqualification will be removed and a letter issued granting the extension of 6 months.

The applicant has this time period to become fully compliant.

If the application is declined, or if an application was never made, then the practitioner will remain blocked until they are compliant and have notified the PPRA of their compliance.

In such instance, and if the practitioners FFC has expired, the practitioner may apply to register as a candidate property practitioner for the respective sub-sector in terms of Regulation 33 of the PPA.

If the practitioner complied fully before their FFC expires, and within the 6 month period (from the date of disqualification letter) the block will be removed.

If you fail to apply within 60 days of being notified of your disqualification, and are still disqualified at your FFC expiry date, you will not be issued with a FFC at your current practicing status until you have fully complied and you will have to pay a penalty.

Practitioners who cannot comply with the extension process, or meet the education requirements, may, when their current FFC expires, apply for an FFC as a candidate practitioner and must then comply with the candidates education regulations.

Old and new terminology:

Intern Status – Candidate Property Practitioner

Full Status – Property Practitioner

Principal Status – Principal Property Practitioner

Online Convenience cc t/a PropAcademy ©

Disclaimer: PropAcademy has prepared these notes to the best of their knowledge and have taken advice from various experts.  PropAcademy are indemnified against any misrepresentation or error that may occur herein.

Recognition of Prior Learning & ServiceSETA Rules & Regulations

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How do I know that an ethical Accreditation Centre is representing me?

It is difficult to turn down a “cheap” course – how are you to know that there are providers in the industry selling cheap RPL courses to agents who do not qualify and cannot complete them?

Certain costs must be carried out when delivering a qualification.  Your course must be current with the legislation of that industry, and it must be assessed by an ETDP/SSETA accredited Assessor who must be paid to mark your assignments and liaise with you directly to ensure you understand how to present any remedial work.  Then the assessor hands over your competent portfolio to an accredited Moderator.  The moderator, in turn, must take a sample of learners from a group and then check that the assessor has assessed correctly and that the candidates’ answers are authentic, sufficient, valid and current.  Only then will SSETA confirm a visit to verify the group and pass certification.  This process costs money to be carried out efficiently and effectively.  Don’t be caught out!

Are there unethical Accreditation Centres and Providers in the marketplace that I must avoid?

In any industry, you will find stakeholders who want to cut corners to the detriment of the consumer.  Just ask the correct questions and ensure that the provider is an approved Accreditation Centre and has the backup to ensure your speedy certification.

What could be the repercussion if I use an unethical provider of an RPL qualification?

The most important repercussion is how it will affect your pocket in the long term and your compliance with the PPRA.  Often, candidates dump the course they have purchased and re-purchase through another provider to achieve compliance.  Be aware and ask questions.

What determines that I am eligible for RPL?

Recognition of Prior Learning is just that.  It can be recognised through experience, or it can be recognised through past qualifications, and the regulatory bodies determine these parameters.

You will comply if you have been a property practitioner for at least a year and have knowledge of the industry, proof of training and experience in various property market sectors. At our PropAcademy Assessment Centre, we supply you with an online quiz to give you a quick indication of what is required and then ask for evidence which we examine.

We ensure that you understand that RPL is a course where you will have to prove to the SSETA that you have been in the industry and understand the processes and requirements of a full-status property practitioner.  You will be asked to provide proof of contracts that you have completed and complete quizzes and assignments.  Because you are an RPL candidate, you don’t receive learner guides, but at PropAcademy, we throw those in case your memory needs reminding of a certain industry specialisation.  For example, you may be a rental agent and need to know more about sales.

How does RPL help me complete my course faster?

RPL does speed up the process. Because you are not “learning” the industry but only providing evidence that you understand the industry, the course can be done half the time.  Remembering, though, the assessment and certification process takes at least three to four months after you have been found compliant.

It must be noted that even though you may be eligible for RPL, you must follow the SAQA pre-requisite to complete RPL in that qualification.  If you are applying for NQF4, 59097 Real Estate, you must have mathematics and a second South African language at the matric level.  PropAcademy supplies easy bridging courses for both subjects.  If you apply for NQF5, 20188 Real Estate, the pre-requisite has an NQF4 59097 or exemption.

PPRA/EAAB Extension of the Education Requirements Compliance Deadline

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New Deadline

The PPRA/EAAB has extended the deadline from 31 January 2023 to 30 June 2023. All candidates must meet this deadline as it will not be extended again.

Who is the deadline for?

When you receive your first FFC you must submit your Logbook within the first 12 months, and within a total of 24 months [from FFC issue date] you must be found competent in your NQF4 and your PDE4.

You will then need to comply with CPD the year following the year you received your PDE4 results.

If you then complete your NQF5 and registered as a Principal, you have 2 years in which to be found competent in your PDE5.

If you held Full/Principal status without completing the educational steps, then you need to confirm which courses you need to complete to comply with the deadline.

If you have not stuck to these timelines, then you will need to do so by 30 June 2023.

For a breakdown of the education process, download this free guide.