IEA training members for 60 years



TRAINING - or "skills development" - Is the foundation that underpins the Institute of Estate Agents and the industry we serve. For more than 60 years, the IEA has been training its members (and others) in the necessary skills and knowledge needed to become successful estate agents. The pace in the buying and selling of real estate has increased noticeably in recent years, and as laws become more complex, the market has become tougher and more competitive. In the past courses focused on sales skills, property law and finance. Today technology has become the finest means of creating efficiency. A few years ago computers hardly featured in the life of estate agents, but have become an indispensable part of the industry, not only on the administrative side, but in sales, letting and marketing sectors as well. Our computer school, which opened in February this year, has trained hundreds of satisfied members of the public and estate agents. A variety of different courses ranging from an introduction to computers to the more advanced website design is offered, and the practical, hands-on approach of the trainers has been well received. The Institute also offers essential training courses including the Estate Agency Board Course, which is the basic starting module for anyone wanting to enter the industry. This course has proved to be of interest to consumers wanting to acquire a better general knowledge of the property industry. Other interesting courses are offered in more specific fields for those wanting to specialise in Auctioneering, Rentals and Management, Property and Investment and Sectional Title to name but a few. The Institute endeavours to keep its member estate agents informed and up to date with regard to issues in the property world, and regular seminars are held on topical issues such as Capital Gains Tax. We encourage all IEA members to take advantage of our courses, and we ask Principals to promote this important opportunity for training. Principals should be aware that refunds might be claimed for sending agents (and themselves) to IEA courses. A claim to Services SETA for skills grants / refunds for those paying Skills Development Levies will enable Principals and Managers to encourage their staff to become better educated within the property industry. The Institute remains committed to persuing and promoting training, and maintaining the ethical standards of its members to the benefit of both the industry and the public.