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:

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.
Enroll with an Accredited Skills Development Provider
- Choose a provider like PropAcademy to complete your Occupational Certificate: Real Estate Agent.
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.
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.
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.
Write the EISA
- After completing the Work Experience Modules, you are eligible to write the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA).
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.
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.
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):

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”).
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.
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.
Submit Confirmation of Completion
- The PPRA must receive and approve the confirmation letter of completion of the 6 practical modules.
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.
Earn the PPRE Designation
- After successfully passing the PDE 4, the PPRA will award you the professional designation PPRE.
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!