Lead with Confidence in the New Era of Real Estate
The Higher Occupational Certificate: Principal Real Estate Agent (NQF Level 5), SAQA ID 121691, is the new QCTO-accredited qualification for aspiring principals. It replaces the legacy qualification (SAQA ID 20188) and forms part of South Africa’s modernised, competency-based real estate education system.
This qualification prepares learners not only to lead an agency but to manage people, processes, and compliance in a dynamic and ever-changing property market.
Purpose of the Qualification
The purpose of this qualification is to develop competent, ethical, and professional real estate principals who can manage and grow property businesses in line with national standards and regulatory requirements.
It focuses on the practical, theoretical, and workplace skills required to:
- Manage a compliant and profitable real estate agency
- Lead and develop a team of property professionals
- Apply strategic management and marketing principles
- Ensure ethical conduct in all real estate activities
- Oversee operations in line with PPRA and QCTO requirements
Qualification Details
Qualification Title: Higher Occupational Certificate: Principal Real Estate Agent
SAQA ID: 121691
NQF Level: 5
Credits: 160
Qualification Type: Occupational (Principal Real Estate Agent)
What You Will Learn
This qualification integrates knowledge, practical skills, and workplace experience to ensure readiness for real-world challenges:
- Real Estate Business Management and Operations
- Leadership and Team Development
- Compliance, Risk and Ethics
- Strategic Planning and Financial Management
- Customer Service and Relationship Management
- Professional Practice in the Property Industry
Learners complete Knowledge Modules, Practical Modules, and Workplace Modules, demonstrating applied competence throughout.
Final Assessment
All learners are required to complete an External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) at an Accredited Assessment Centre.
The EISA serves as a national benchmark to ensure all learners meet the occupational competence standard for the Principal Real Estate Agent role.
Certification and Recognition
Upon successful completion of the qualification and EISA, learners are awarded the Occupational Certificate: Principal Real Estate Agent (NQF Level 5).
This qualification is recognised by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA) as meeting the educational requirements for registration as a Principal Estate Agent.
Why Choose the Occupational Qualification
The new occupational qualification ensures industry alignment and practical competence, setting a new national standard for real estate leadership.
- Competency-based and workplace-driven
- Nationally standardised curriculum and assessments
- Industry-approved and QCTO-accredited
- Recognised pathway to PPRA principal registration
This qualification is ideal for learners who want to complete their studies under the new system, ensuring long-term compliance with PPRA and QCTO requirements.