Kazakhstan introduces mandatory certification for real estate agents
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Kazakhstan has introduced mandatory certification for real estate agents for the first time, requiring professionals to pass a test and register in a unified electronic registry. The measure aims to reduce fraud in the housing market and protect client rights, according to Stan.kz citing 7-арна.
Certification Process
The certification involves independent knowledge testing via proctoring technology, preventing cheating or proxy testing. The test costs 80,000 tenge and includes two attempts; candidates must answer at least 45 of 60 questions correctly to receive a one-year certificate. The first certificate was awarded to a realtor from Astana.
Market Context
Currently, over 25,000 realtors operate in Kazakhstan, but only one-third are officially registered, with the rest working in the shadow market, avoiding taxes. The National Chamber of Realtors (PANA) developed the test database of over 1,000 questions, with 40-50% based on practical experience.
Self-Regulation System
A mandatory self-regulation system is also being introduced, prompted by frequent complaints of fraud and lack of oversight. Previously, anyone could advertise as a realtor without legal regulation. PANA Vice President Aset Aitbayev noted that both clients and realtors have been unprotected due to the absence of formal service contracts.
What's Next
The certification system will be accessible via pana-urp.kz, with realtors required to pass the test to remain in the unified registry. It remains unclear how enforcement will be carried out for those operating outside the system.
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Kazakhstan introduces mandatory certification for real estate agents
