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Posted on 13 ก.พ. 2568
12914
Why Don’t I Set a Standard for Real Estate Agents?
Many fellow agents, colleagues, and friends have asked me:
"Why don’t you establish a standard for real estate agents?"
They argue that it would help unify practices across the industry.
After all, what I’ve been sharing seems logical and beneficial for all parties involved—reducing disputes between property owners, agents, and clients.
Currently, agents operate with varying standards, creating inconsistencies in the field.
Many suggestions have been proposed, such as:
Offering structured courses with certification
Implementing training and examination programs
Establishing an ISO standard
Creating a centralized website or system for agent registration, where those meeting the criteria receive certification
But first, who am I to do that?
Honestly, I’ve considered all of these ideas before.
But!!! The key issue in implementing any of these initiatives is legal recognition.
Without legal backing, it would be meaningless.
The Reality of the Industry
Currently, there are nearly 80,000 registered agents (including those working under corporate structures).
If we count those operating outside the system, the number likely reaches 130,000 – 150,000 individuals.
Some have attended multiple training courses, while others have learned through experience.
Although the law includes some provisions for real estate transactions, the coverage is limited.
It does not extend to regulating the daily operational standards that agents follow.
Even certification from relevant industry associations does not guarantee credibility.
Whether an agent holds a certificate or not, they can still work in the industry, leading many to stigmatize this profession as merely "middlemen who profit without effort."
The Real Cost of Being an Agent
However, those who take this profession seriously and rely on it for a living bear significant costs—especially in marketing.
The expenses are no different from online entrepreneurs selling products.
Yet, in nearly 10 years of working in this field, not a single property owner has asked to see my professional certification.
Most transactions happen through word of mouth, and as the saying goes:
"It doesn’t matter what color the cat is, as long as it catches mice."
The Lack of a Verification System
The absence of a standardized system has led to grey areas filled with uncertainty.
No database or verification platform exists to determine whether the person you're dealing with is a trusted agent or a fraudster.
What’s the First Step?
The first button to fasten in fixing this industry is introducing mandatory professional licensing and strict enforcement of occupational laws.
There should be a regulatory body overseeing foreign nationals working as agents, preventing unauthorized practice.
Will it be 100% effective? Probably not.
Thailand still has loopholes that allow things to slip through.
But at the very least, it would improve the industry compared to its current state.
Who Am I to Set the Standard?
Lastly, who am I to establish an industry-wide standard?
While I might be known within certain circles, on a national level, I’m just a small player.
Why would anyone recognize my authority to define professional standards?
I may not hold that power, but if given the opportunity to serve as an advisor to improve the industry, leading to legally enforced regulations, I would gladly take part.
I truly hope to see it happen within my lifetime.
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