In a job market where nearly half of South Africans aged 15 to 34 are unemployed, many young people are finding that traditional career paths come with more roadblocks than rewards. Long degrees, steep entry costs, and delayed earning potential have made some professions feel like endurance sports rather than viable options.
Real estate is gaining ground as a sector where those starting out can earn faster, gain hands-on experience, and carve out a meaningful career without waiting years to “qualify”. In 2024 alone, the latest Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority’s Annual Report shows that fidelity fund and registration certificates were issued to 10,556 new candidate property practitioners, with nearly double that number issued in 2023. The appetite is definitely there. But while young practitioners bring energy, digital skills, and fresh thinking, exactly what the industry needs, they’re still hitting walls.
Investing in young talent pays off
When the market moves fast, standing still means falling behind. Bringing in young property practitioners into the fold can help real estate businesses stay ahead. As Kyle Vernes, Head of Developments at Revo Property, puts it: “The real estate industry, while rooted in tradition and long-standing value, is evolving at an accelerated pace, shaped by technology, shifting consumer behaviour, and changing economic conditions.
“Young practitioners bring fresh perspectives, energy, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Their innovation is essential for businesses looking to stay competitive, adaptable, and relevant in a rapidly transforming environment.”
Beyond the business case, investing in youth also means investing in the country. Vernes adds: “By nurturing young talent, South Africa and its businesses can equip future leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to address challenges and capitalise on opportunities, ultimately building a more prosperous and equitable country.”
And the need for that investment is clear. Although young people are entering the property market later than previous generations, they remain serious about homeownership. According to Lightstone research, young adults aged 20–35 made up 30% of all residential property purchases in 2024. Having young property practitioners on the team allows a business to naturally connect with this market through organic relationships. They’re already plugged into the conversations, platforms, and social circles that young first-time buyers and renters trust.
Relatability scores big points, but being digitally fluent also helps young property practitioners get the job done. They’re comfortable using digital platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn to build their brand, market listings, and reach a wider audience. While some senior employees may still be figuring out how to update their Facebook profile picture, younger practitioners are using short-form video and personal branding to grow their networks and close deals.
They’re also stepping into the industry with up-to-date knowledge of regulations, best practices, and the latest training. And with a strong drive to prove themselves, young property practitioners are often highly motivated to go the extra mile and are adaptable, delivering service that leads to long-term relationships and referrals.
On top of that, investing in youth can come with financial incentives. Through the SARS Youth Employment Tax Incentive, agencies and brokerages that pay a stipend or basic salary to qualifying young employees can reduce their PAYE liability by up to R1,000 per person, per month, making it easier to build sustainable support into a hiring strategy.
Clear gap in support, says industry
Young property practitioners bring a lot to the table. But despite their value, many in the industry agree that they’re not getting the support they need. During Youth Month in June, Prop Data ran a poll and found that 58% of property practitioners believe that not enough is being done to nurture young talent.
According to Vernes, this response reflects a deeper issue: “What’s clear is that the broader industry culture hasn’t yet prioritised the structured development of young talent, he says. “Real estate is still largely relationship-driven and individualistic, with success traditionally built through established networks over time. As a result, many businesses and older practitioners haven’t created the systems or mindset needed to meaningfully support younger, fresh faces in the industry.”
That lack of structure can make it tough for newcomers to find their footing. Vernes explains: “Young practitioners often face two key challenges: buyers and sellers tend to trust familiar, established practitioners, and many senior professionals are protective of their business networks.
“On top of this, many agencies still operate on older principles and systems, some of these outdated models don’t prioritise mentorship, collaboration, or innovation. Without intentional investment in training, support, and inclusion, young professionals are left to navigate the industry alone, making their path to success more challenging and slower.”
Time to change how young practitioners are seen
For young practitioners to thrive, the industry needs to change outdated perceptions holding them back. “The industry must shift its mindset from seeing youth as inexperienced and risky, to recognising young practitioners as catalysts for innovation, energy, and modern thinking,” encourages Vernes. “Speaking as a young professional myself, we bring fresh perspectives, digital competence, and a natural connection to a new generation of clients.”
But Vernes is clear that this isn’t about replacing experience with youth. “It’s about complementing each other”, he says. “There is immense value in creating collaboration between established professionals and emerging young talent.”