Our advice on becoming a luxury estate agent

Spectacular views, high-quality materials, detailed finishes and sophisticated designs - luxury real estate is an exclusive environment that encompasses a variety of sectors and an ever-increasing number of opportunities. To train for the demands of this prestigious market and become a luxury estate agent, it is essential to master the fundamentals of luxury management and develop a keen sense of service and negotiation. This is precisely what the MBA Luxury Brand Marketing & International Management offered by Sup de Luxe offers, a programme of excellence that prepares future professionals for the most strategic professions in the luxury industry, including the top-of-the-range real estate sector.
 

What is a luxury estate agent?

A luxury estate agent is first and foremost a professional who only sells luxury properties: sumptuous villas, large flats in the best neighbourhoods, chalets in the mountains, etc. These properties offer superior services and exceptional features such as location, size, quality of finish, top-of-the-range amenities, views, surroundings and security.

Above all, the aim is not simply to sell houses, but to offer an exclusive experience and meet the - sometimes extravagant - expectations of a demanding clientele.

The very high prices of these properties are aimed at a hand-picked clientele of international businessmen, personalities from the world of entertainment, and wealthy individuals looking for peace and quiet. These buyers are not just looking for a roof over their heads, they are looking for a secure investment, an exceptional living environment or sometimes even an architectural work of art. You have to be able to decipher their expectations, anticipate their desires and, above all, live up to their high standards.

A good luxury estate agent needs to have a thorough knowledge of the market and a well-stocked address book. They must also - and above all - have excellent interpersonal skills, an ability to create an immediate bond of trust, and absolute discretion.

The work of a luxury estate agent is demanding, as it can involve frequent travel to visit properties, complex negotiations and sometimes irregular working hours.
 

Skills required to enter the luxury property sector
 

To work in luxury real estate, you need a thorough knowledge of the local and national property market and a good understanding of the needs and expectations of wealthy clients. It is also possible to offer advice on property investments, decoration and renovations. A good luxury estate agent must also - and above all - have excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to create an immediate bond of trust and absolute discretion.

Here are just a few of the skills that are essential for entering the luxury property market:

In-depth knowledge of the local property market and trends

Marketing: Knowledge of marketing strategies to promote luxury properties.

Strong negotiation and communication skills

Ability to build and maintain high-level client relationships

Ability to manage client expectations and find creative solutions to problems

Legal knowledge: Knowledge of relevant real estate laws and regulations to successfully manage transactions.

Networking: Have a strong network and develop relationships with real estate agents, brokers, lawyers, etc.
 

What is the average salary of a luxury real estate agent?

Unlike traditional real estate, where the agent receives a fixed salary supplemented by commissions, a luxury real estate agent operates mainly on commission. Generally, fees on a sale range between 3% and 7% of the property’s price. Earnings can quickly rise, as some high-end properties often sell for several million euros. Moreover, income also varies depending on numerous factors: experience, network, reputation, but above all, the number and value of completed sales.

A newcomer to the sector can expect to earn between €50,000 and €100,000 gross per year if they manage to close their first deals. However, with experience and a strong client portfolio, these figures can rise significantly. The top agents, those operating in the most sought-after markets – Paris, the Côte d’Azur, London, New York, Dubai – can earn several hundred thousand euros per year, or even much more. Some even reach annual earnings of one million euros.

However, it is important to keep in mind that these attractive earnings are not guaranteed. Competition is fierce, sales cycles are long, and each transaction requires months of negotiation. One must be able to endure slow periods, invest time and energy in building a reputation and a network.

Our advice for becoming a luxury real estate agent