How to start a career as a self-employed real estate consultant

Assess whether this career suits your profile

Before making any decision, take time to reflect on what it really means to be a self-employed real estate consultant. This profession requires more than just an interest in houses or sales — it calls for autonomy, resilience, proactivity, and excellent communication skills.

If you value flexible schedules, unlimited earning potential, and the opportunity to build your own business, this could be the ideal path. However, you must also be prepared to manage the uncertainty of variable income and to take full responsibility for every part of your work.

Internationally established companies such as Engel & Völkers offer support structures that allow you to maintain independence while benefiting from professional tools, training, and ongoing support — a perfect balance for those starting out on their own.

Create a clear action plan

Like any business, the work of an independent real estate consultant should begin with a well-structured plan. This plan should include:

• Short-, medium- and long-term goals;

• Estimated costs and income;

• Property acquisition and client outreach strategies;

• Target geographic areas;

• Marketing and communication tools;

• Strategic partnerships (with agencies, banks, architects, etc.).

This plan will serve as your roadmap and help you stay focused, even during challenging times.

Invest in your training

Working independently doesn’t mean working without preparation. In fact, the more independent you are, the better prepared you need to be. A successful real estate consultant masters topics such as property valuation, negotiation, real estate photography, digital marketing, and legal requirements.

There are plenty of training courses available online and in person, but the best option is to work with a company that offers continuous, up-to-date training tailored to the real needs of the market. Engel & Völkers is known for offering a complete training programme — from fundamentals to advanced digital tools — all with professional guidance.

Choose a territory and specialise in it

A common mistake when starting out is trying to cover too many areas at once. Working efficiently means choosing a specific territory — whether a neighbourhood, city, or region — and getting to know it inside out. This includes:

• The most in-demand property types;

• Buyer profiles and demographics;

• Upcoming developments;

• Local competition;

• Price evolution per square metre.

By becoming a specialist in a specific area, you build credibility, establish a strong network, and position yourself as the go-to expert in that location.

Master the art of property acquisition

Securing good property listings is the foundation of your portfolio and your income. For many new consultants, this stage feels intimidating — but there are tried-and-tested techniques that can help. The key is to communicate value, present yourself professionally, and offer practical solutions to property owners.

These property acquisition strategies can help you refine your pitch, overcome objections, and gain trust from the first contact.

Remember: acquisition should be a regular part of your workweek, not a one-off task.

Build a strong professional image

Even as an independent consultant, it’s vital to establish a coherent, professional, and visible personal brand. This includes:

• A well-designed business card;

• Updated social media profiles (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook);

• A personal website or digital portfolio;

• Sharing market insights or success stories.

Your image and communication style are the first impressions clients will have. A strong image inspires trust and attracts new opportunities.

Aligning yourself with a respected international brand such as Engel & Völkers also strengthens your credibility while allowing you to maintain full control of your business.

Manage your time and stay disciplined

Flexible hours are one of the most attractive features of this profession, but they can also be a trap. Without imposed routines, it’s easy to lose focus or procrastinate.

That’s why you should schedule dedicated time blocks for tasks such as:

• Prospecting and acquisition;

• Updating listings and social media;

• Responding to leads;

• Client visits and follow-ups;

• Ongoing training.

Use productivity tools like CRMs, digital calendars, and task management apps to stay organised and on top of everything.

Cultivate your network

Networking is one of the most powerful tools a real estate consultant can use. From informal chats to strategic partnerships, every connection matters. Attend local events, stay active in your community, reconnect with former colleagues — you never know where the next opportunity may come from.

Satisfied clients are also an excellent source of referrals. That’s why every interaction should be handled with professionalism, even after the deal is closed.

Prepare for ups and downs

The early stages of a self-employed real estate career can be exciting — but also tough. There will be times when calls don’t come in, deals are slow, or clients are indecisive. Your ability to handle these situations with resilience and optimism is what will set you apart.

Having a financial safety net for the first few months can help ease the pressure. But most importantly, keep taking action — today’s conversations can lead to future results.

Be ready to change careers with confidence

Many real estate professionals come from completely different industries — education, retail, engineering, hospitality. The decision to change careers is always bold, but with the right support, it can be the best choice you’ve ever made.

If you’re going through a transition and looking for a career with autonomy, impact, and real growth potential, real estate might be the answer.

Success starts with the first step

Starting a career as a self-employed real estate consultant is challenging — but it’s also an extraordinary opportunity to create something of your own. With a well-defined plan, proper training, professional support, and a willingness to learn, it’s entirely possible to build a solid and successful path.

Partnering with a brand like Engel & Völkers allows you to maintain independence while benefiting from a structured platform, advanced tools, marketing support, and international credibility.

The market remains dynamic — and the time to act is now. If you’re ready to take that first step, know that your future is in your hands — and it begins with the right decision.