Abbotts Country Houses regional manager (East Norfolk) Annie Edwards, right, with negotiator Anna-Marie Catchpole.

Estate Agent

Answers supplied by Annie Edwards, regional manager at Abbotts Estate Agents which has been established since 1850, they have 48 local branches and is part of the Countrywide Assured Group PLC, the UKs largest estate agent with more than 800 branches.

What does the job entail?
After the initial training, which is done in the branch or at a training centre, negotiators meet applicants, arrange viewings, negotiate and progress sales. They stay in constant communication with vendors as each property is allocated to one member of staff. You need to ensure your clients are provided with a first class service at all times, keeping them fully informed and giving advice and support.

What skills and qualifications are needed?
There are no particular qualifications required and often people with no previous experience are preferred as estate agents have their own training programmes. The initial training lasts 11 months and is very comprehensive. People skills are essential as are self-motivation, enthusiasm, commitment and patience.

What type of person will fit in?
All the staff are very different, but an outgoing personality with determination together with being a team player are important attributes. You also need a strong belief in customer care and the ability to empathise with clients.

What are the pluses and minuses of the job?
One major plus is the buzz of selling someone their dream home, another is that every day is different. You meet all kinds of interesting clients when it is an emotional time for most people and experience and understanding is crucial. On the down side, you can see clients upset as their plans have not gone according to plan.

What opportunities exist for career progression?
All staff follow a very organised training plan, which will enable them to progress their career. Managers are generally internally promoted.

What can I expect to earn?
Salaries are very varied depending on location, the role and success of the person. There is a commission element, but a good negotiator would have on target earnings between £17,000-£20,000.

Any hints on getting a job in this area?
Most estate agents advertise in local newspapers and hold regular seminars which are advertised where interested parties can come and see a video presentation and meet senior members of staff. We would be delighted to consider anyone who has the drive and determination to succeed.