Hanoi, Vietnam – Concerns are mounting over the quality of real estate brokerage services in Vietnam, with a recent report revealing a significant lack of qualified professionals in the rapidly expanding property market. The findings, released on March 7, 2026, highlight a critical need for improved regulation, training, and certification standards to protect consumers and foster a more transparent and sustainable industry. This situation is particularly worrying given the increasing number of individuals investing in Vietnamese real estate, both domestically and internationally.
The report, conducted by the Vietnam Association of Realtors (VAR), estimates that approximately 400,000 people are currently employed in the real estate sector across the country. However, a startling statistic reveals that over 90% of these agents either lack professional certification or hold expired credentials. This means that only around 10% of real estate agents in Vietnam have received adequate training and possess a currently valid and recognized certification. The lack of qualified personnel raises serious questions about the level of expertise and ethical conduct within the industry, potentially exposing buyers and sellers to risks of misinformation, fraud, and unfavorable transactions. The issue of professional regulation in real estate is not unique to Vietnam, but the scale of the problem appears particularly acute.
The Urgent Need for Professionalization
The consequences of this widespread lack of qualification are far-reaching. Without proper training and oversight, agents may be ill-equipped to navigate the complexities of property law, valuation, and negotiation. This can lead to inaccurate information being provided to clients, potentially resulting in poor investment decisions and financial losses. The absence of a strong ethical framework can create opportunities for unscrupulous practices, eroding trust in the real estate market. As Nguyen Van Dinh, President of the VAR, stated, the current situation creates “difficulties for agencies and agents,” as operating without a license restricts their ability to legally collect commissions.
The Vietnamese government recognizes the need for reform. The existing legal framework stipulates the necessary skills and certifications for real estate agents, but enforcement has been lax. The VAR’s report underscores the urgency of strengthening the implementation of these regulations, streamlining the certification process, and ensuring that training programs meet rigorous standards. This includes addressing the proliferation of substandard training courses, some of which offer accelerated online programs lasting only one to three sessions, or operate as unregulated “seminars” offering certificates without proper accreditation.
Consumer Vulnerability and Rising Concerns
The impact of unqualified agents is already being felt by consumers. Stories abound of individuals falling victim to scams or making ill-informed purchases due to misleading information provided by inexperienced or unethical agents. Nguyen Cong Duc, a resident of Long Bien district in Hanoi, exemplifies a cautious approach. He explained, “Real estate is a valuable investment, which is why I generally research information in advance. I contact reputable real estate agencies that directly distribute properties from developers and inquire with them.” However, as the report points out, not everyone exercises such diligence.
Vu Thi Thuy, Sales Director at Cenland, a prominent real estate company in Vietnam, highlighted the prevalence of consumer complaints. “In our business, we have encountered many clients who have been victims of fraud during transactions, following the receipt of unofficial and inaccurate information,” she noted. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that many clients rely solely on information provided by sellers, who may lack the necessary training and expertise to provide accurate guidance. This reliance on potentially unreliable sources underscores the need for greater consumer awareness and access to verified information.
Shortcomings in Training and Certification
The current system for training and certifying real estate agents in Vietnam is facing significant challenges. While regulations require a minimum of 74 hours of training, many programs fall short of this standard. The VAR report details how some institutions are offering drastically shortened courses, and the rise of “clandestine” classes and illegitimate certificate-issuing schemes further undermines the integrity of the certification process. This lack of quality control raises concerns about the competence and professionalism of a large segment of the real estate workforce.
The issue isn’t simply about the length of training, but likewise the quality of the curriculum and the rigor of the assessment process. Effective training programs should cover a comprehensive range of topics, including property law, valuation techniques, marketing strategies, ethical conduct, and consumer protection. The certification process should involve a thorough examination to ensure that agents possess the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties competently and ethically.
International Standards and Best Practices
Vietnam is not alone in grappling with the challenges of regulating the real estate profession. Many countries around the world have implemented robust licensing and certification requirements to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the market. Organizations like the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI), founded in 1951, promote professional standards and ethical conduct within the global real estate industry. FIABCI emphasizes the importance of ongoing professional development and adherence to a code of ethics.
In Belgium, for example, the real estate agent profession has been regulated since 1993, requiring both a title and practical experience to practice legally. These examples demonstrate that effective regulation is achievable and can contribute to a more stable and trustworthy real estate market. Vietnam can learn from these international best practices as it seeks to reform its own system.
The Role of Associations and Government Oversight
The Vietnam Association of Realtors (VAR) plays a crucial role in advocating for improved standards and representing the interests of its members. However, the VAR’s influence is limited by the lack of mandatory membership and the challenges of enforcing regulations. Stronger government oversight is essential to ensure that all real estate agents comply with the law and adhere to ethical standards. This includes increasing the frequency and thoroughness of inspections, imposing stricter penalties for violations, and providing greater support for training and certification programs.
greater transparency in the real estate market is needed. This could involve establishing a publicly accessible database of licensed agents, requiring full disclosure of property information, and implementing measures to prevent price manipulation and fraudulent practices. Empowering consumers with accurate information and providing them with effective avenues for redress are essential steps towards building a more trustworthy and sustainable real estate market in Vietnam.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening the Foundation for Growth
The Vietnamese real estate market holds significant potential for continued growth, but realizing this potential requires addressing the current shortcomings in professional standards and regulatory oversight. The VAR’s recent report serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reform. By investing in quality training programs, strengthening the certification process, and enhancing government oversight, Vietnam can create a more professional, transparent, and trustworthy real estate market that benefits both consumers and investors.
The next key development to watch will be the government’s response to the VAR’s report and the implementation of any fresh regulations or enforcement measures. The Ministry of Construction is expected to announce its plans for addressing these issues in the coming months. Stakeholders across the industry will be closely monitoring these developments, as they will have a significant impact on the future of real estate in Vietnam.
What are your thoughts on the state of real estate regulation in Vietnam? Share your comments below and let us know how you think the industry can be improved. Don’t forget to share this article with your network to raise awareness of this important issue.
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