The Real Estate Agents Licensing Board (REALB) of Fiji has implemented new measures aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability for new agents within the industry. This policy mandates that all applications for new agent licenses must be publicly announced in an English-language newspaper that circulates in Fiji and on the REALB website, along with the existing publication in the Government Gazette.
This change is part of REALB’s ongoing commitment to foster public trust and uphold the integrity of Fiji’s real estate profession. Upon submission of license applications via REALB’s online portal, they will be reported publicly once. Following this, the public will have a seven-day period to voice any objections or support letters, with objections needing to be based on legitimate grounds outlined in the Real Estate Agents Act 2006, including issues related to eligibility and character.
If an application faces no valid objections, it proceeds to a Board interview, but if valid objections are lodged, a formal hearing will take place to address those concerns. Applicants whose licenses are denied have the right to appeal to the Minister within 28 days as stated in Section 77 of the Act.
This move encourages community engagement in the licensing process, embodying REALB’s mission to create a fair and transparent real estate sector in Fiji. The response from the public is integral, as it will allow for a greater oversight of individuals entering the profession, aiming to reduce the incidences of unlicensed and unethical practices highlighted in previous discussions among REALB officials.
The emphasis on accountability and ethics aligns with recent efforts by REALB to tackle challenges posed by unlicensed agents, reinforcing the importance of maintaining high professional standards in the industry. By promoting public participation in the application process, REALB hopes to foster a more trustworthy environment, ultimately leading to a more robust real estate sector that supports sustainable economic growth and community trust.
Overall, the introduction of these policies reflects a hopeful future for Fiji’s real estate sector as it endeavors to build a reputation based on ethical practices and greater public confidence.
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