What is an “Immobilienkaufmann/-frau”?
An Immobilienkaufmann/-frau is a real estate management specialist. They manage, rent out, sell and help develop properties such as apartments, houses, office buildings, shopping centres and plots of land.
They advise clients, prepare contracts and handle financial and administrative matters related to real estate.
Dual vocational training (company + vocational school)
Duration: 3 years
Practical training in: housing companies, property management firms, real estate agencies, banks, etc.
Theoretical training in: vocational school (law, business administration, real estate management, accounting, …)
Final qualification: IHK-recognised exam (Chamber of Industry and Commerce)
Property management
Managing and looking after residential and commercial properties
Coordinating repairs, maintenance and service providers
Monitoring building-related contracts and services
Letting and selling
Presenting properties and conducting viewings
Preparing and processing rental and purchase contracts
Negotiating prices, rents and conditions
Financial and legal consulting
Advising on financing, mortgages and real estate loans
Monitoring incoming rent payments and service charges
Supporting budgeting and profitability calculations for properties
Real estate marketing
Creating advertisements and exposés (online & print)
Assessing property values and market potential
Developing marketing and sales strategies
Administrative work
Managing files, contracts and correspondence
Preparing reports on income, expenses and property performance
Real estate development and housing companies
Property and facility management firms
Housing cooperatives and public housing associations
Banks and financial institutions in real estate financing
Independent real estate agencies and brokers
Strong communication and negotiation skills
Solid economic and business mindset
Basic knowledge of real estate, tenancy and contract law
Strong organisational skills and accuracy
Ability to deal with different types of clients
Confident use of computers and management software
Promotion to project manager or branch manager
Further qualification as Immobilienfachwirt/in (certified real estate specialist)
Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Management, Business Administration, Facility Management
Specialisation in property valuation, project development or asset management
| Immobilienkaufmann/-frau | Immobilienmakler/in (broker) | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Comprehensive management, letting, admin, finance | Brokerage of properties (selling & renting) |
| Main tasks | Managing properties, contracts, maintenance, cost control | Marketing, viewings, price negotiations, closing deals |
| Typical employer | Housing companies, banks, large firms, administrations | Independent agencies or self-employed broker |
Summary (English)
The profession Immobilienkaufmann/-frau is a great choice if you enjoy combining business, organisation and direct customer contact.
It offers strong job security, many specialisation options and good prospects for advancement within the German real estate sector.
