Whenever we say the word real estate the thing that pops into mind is flashing dollar signs. It is considered the shortcut to quick bucks. But ever wondered what really this industry is about and why it is the second largest employer after agriculture in India? It is the most coveted dream: to own a house. It is the most coveted Investment Opportunity: returns cannot be matched and it gives you a steady income (read rent) that fixed deposits, mutual funds, metals or commodities cannot hope to do. Most importantly it is because on an average 60 % of a person’s income is locked in real estate.

We also have the issue of our weaknesses being our biggest strength. It is the only segment of an investor’s wealth which is yet unregulated and has no entry barrier unlike stock brokerage and insurance.

Market penetration is as yet low on an organised level. Translated, this means potential and first-mover advantage. We see a host of international Property Consultants and corporate houses entering the Indian real estate market. Though it is attracting a lot of attention these very problems shatter the quick buck dream. No proper information, uneducated and uniformed brokers are the biggest problem. Adding to the woes is a highly informed customer who is increasingly becoming a DIY (do it yourself) customer.

It is easy to have 200 leads but it is very difficult for a Real Estate Broker to crack a deal by matching these leads, going through the documentation and close the sale. It is even more difficult to collect commission. This being the general view, it is still the best time to be in real estate. You have virtually no competition if you decide to be professional, competent, do homework and deliver.