Estate agents are flocking to gain industry qualifications despite the RoPA proposals that will make it mandatory being kicked into the long grass by Ministers.

Propertymark says 7,000 estate agents have registered for its qualifications so far this academic year, which includes double the number of younger agents aged 16-24 years old, although the biggest numbers come from the 26-36 year old age range. This is the highest figure since 2017.

The trade association also says its Level 4 qualification introduced in 2018, primarily aimed at those currently in, or considering, the role of Principals, Partners and Directors in sales and or lettings agencies, has helped push up numbers too.

Registrations rose by 26% last year to more than double the number of participants in the first year it was available.

“We’re particularly pleased to see a continued rise in registrations for qualifications from those at the beginning of their career as a property agent,” says its Head of Qualifications Michael Smith (pictured).

“There is currently no UK-wide requirement for property agents to hold a recognised qualification, so to see a sustained demand demonstrates a real appetite among those entering and progressing in the profession to get qualified and to be fully accredited.

“Since the start of the pandemic over 2,500 people have gained their full qualifications. This underlines the determination to succeed, professionalise and qualify even in challenging circumstances.”

Propertymark Qualifications is recognised by the Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator (Ofqual), Qualifications Wales and the Council for Curriculum, Assessment and Examinations (CCEA Regulation), and offers credit and level rated qualifications in the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).