Starting a Career in Real Estate: What You Need, What It Costs, & Where to Begin (SA 2025)

Many people want to get into Real Estate, but don’t always know what to expect. The information out there can feel overwhelming. The truth is — the process is straightforward when you understand it. So we’ve simplified everything below, and for those who prefer pictures we have designed this infographic to help you see exactly what you need, when you need it.

For our learners, this is what you can expect, as of 2025.11.24.

What is an FFC?

This is a legal certificate issued by the PPRA that allows you to operate lawfully in real estate. It is a criminal offence to practise in real estate without it. You cannot register as an agent unless you are employed by an agency.

From Candidate to Property Practitioner

This process includes Practical Modules, NQF4 in Real Estate and then PDE4. Below we briefly touch on each step.

What are the Practical Modules?

They are activities you need to complete to prove to the PPRA that you can perform day-to-day functions of an estate agent. You cannot complete these unless you have a valid FFC. You don’t need to take this course if you have been marked competent against your Internship, or if you are completing the Occupational Certificate, 118714.

Which NQF4 do I need to choose?

Currently, you can do the NQF4 Legacy 59097 qualification. If you have experience and qualify, you can do this qualification in an RPL version.

Can I be exempt from NQF4/5?

If you qualify, then you can apply for exemption. You will still need to complete all the other educational requirements set out by the PPRA.

When can I write the PDE4?

This exam is set four times per annum by the PPRA. You can register for this exam once you are competent in your Internship and NQF4.

Tell me more about the PDE?

You register for this exam on your PPRA portal. It will refer to a seat number; this is nothing to worry about and should be ignored. The PDE is written from the comfort of your home. In the morning you will download your paper off the PPRA home page, it will be in Word. You will type your answers into the grey shaded areas, and PDF the document once completed. Your PropAcademy Material will be saved on your laptop for you to access during this exam. You will then email this back to the PPRA as per their instructions, they will advise you of email address and deadline time. You will then wait for your results.

Can I also study my NQF5?

If you have your NQF4 in real estate, then you can complete your NQF5. It is as simple as that.

Is anyone able to write the PDE5?

Anyone who qualifies for the PDE5 can write this exam. You can either maintain your status as non-principal, or you can upgrade to Principal Status. You are not forced to upgrade.

From Practitioner to Principal Agent

You can now upgrade to Principal Status.