Property sales agent

Briefly explain what you do for a living.

I sell apartments in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area.

How have you ended up in the profession of your choice?

I worked as an entrepreneur for 13 years, specialising in kitchen furniture sales. During the coronavirus years, I wondered if I might want to pursue a different career. I visited my friend’s real estate agency to give apartment sales a try, and I instantly fell in love with the job.

Describe your typical working day or week.

During a typical working week, I visit apartments that are about to be sold. I process the sales orders for the properties, photograph the apartments, document the orders, and write the presentation text for the listings. Afterward, I upload the photos and descriptions to our property listing system. I also organise apartment viewings, liaise with property management companies, and work on increasing visibility through social media almost on a daily basis. Additionally, I handle real estate transactions with buyers and sellers, whether at the office, in banks, or through electronic DIAS transactions.

What kind of work environment or working hours do you have?

Property sales agents are constantly on the move between different properties. I primarily handle office tasks remotely, though I occasionally visit the office.

My working hours can vary greatly, and to some extent, being reachable from morning to evening is part of a property sales agent’s job. However, I try to keep my early mornings and late evenings calm, typically starting work at 9:00 and finishing by 19:00.

What kind of competence or qualities are required in the profession?

The profession of a property sales agent requires the ability to work independently and in a goal-oriented manner, as the work is very similar to running your own business. To be successful, you need both expertise in the real estate sector and a strong willingness to continuously develop your skills. A positive attitude and enthusiasm go a long way, but persistence is also essential. It is also important to get along with different people.

What is the best thing about your profession?

Customers are the best part of my profession, and I love helping them sell their homes and, in many cases, find a new one. I find it inspiring to visit beautiful homes and hear the life stories of different people. I also value the freedom that comes with the job, as I have the flexibility to set my own working hours and holidays.

What are the downsides of the profession or what seems challenging?

The schedule is often busy, and juggling multiple tasks in a single day can be challenging. Additionally, the work requires continuous self-development and staying up-to-date with new knowledge.

What would you tell a person considering the profession of a property sales agent?

It is important to choose a brand or agency that aligns with your style and values. The profession of a property sales agent requires a solid understanding of the legislation and practices related to contracts. New property sales agents should also be prepared for the fact that it may take a few months to build a customer base. It is a good idea to network with experienced agents, as they provide valuable information.

Life experience is valuable in this field, as it helps you understand the different life stages and the needs associated with them. It is also important to take care of your own well-being by exercising, eating healthily, and ensuring adequate recovery.

How do you see the future of your profession?

The real estate market is affected by economic conditions. Although the property market has faced challenges in recent years, the situation is thankfully improving.