How hard is it to get a Dutch realtor diploma (A-RMT, K-RMT, RM or RT)?
If you want to become a realtor in the Netherlands, you can follow an official real estate training program to obtain a realtor diploma. Below, we’ll cover the various types of diplomas.
Do you need a realtor diploma?
No, you are NOT required to obtain a realtor diploma. The profession of a realtor is not regulated in the Netherlands, meaning anyone can become one. With just a course from Dutch Realtor Training, you can start working as a realtor. A realtor diploma is only necessary if you want to work at a real estate office affiliated with the NVM (the ‘Dutch Association of Real Estate Brokers’). However, many real estate offices are not part of the NVM, where you could potentially apply. You can also start your own real estate office without a diploma.
Can I get a realtor diploma if I don’t speak Dutch fluently?
To be honest, the answer is no. These are challenging courses that require a strong command of the Dutch language. This is why there is an alternative for those who want to become a realtor in the Netherlands but don’t speak the language fluently: Dutch Realtor Training. This course helps you get started in non-NVM real estate offices or in starting your own real estate office. There are lots of real estate offices where you can work without the official diplomas mentioned below.
A-RMT
The A-RMT diploma is for becoming an Assistant Realtor. It is the easiest diploma to obtain, with a course duration of 15 to 28 weeks. There are two written exams and a practical test. You can take this course at institutions such as the Academie voor Vastgoed or IPD. With this diploma, you can work at a NVM-affiliated real estate. However you are restricted from handling certain tasks at the NVM office, such as working as a buying agent. Check out this article for the full authority structure.
K-RMT
The K-RMT diploma is for becoming a ‘Candidate Realtor’. This is the standard realtor training program, which takes 24 to 48 months to complete. First, you will take theory exams and obtain a “Basic Real Estate Specialist” (‘Basistheorie Vastgoeddeskundige’) diploma. After that, you will specialize in the direction called ‘residential real estate’ (‘Specialisatie Wonen’), which includes assignments and a practical exam. With this diploma, you can perform all tasks at an NVM office, except for opening your own NVM office or appraising properties.
RM
RM stands for Registered Realtor. You can pursue this title after obtaining your K-RMT diploma and gaining substantial work experience. The steps vary, but typically it takes about 1 to 2 years of study and assignments.
There’s also a shorter path to becoming a Registered Realtor without the K-RMT, offered by the OVGP. This course takes around 14 months. The drawback is that with this diploma, you still cannot work for an NVM-affiliated office.
RT
RT stands for Registered Appraiser. To become an appraiser, you first need to complete a basic real estate course (‘Basistheorie Vastgoeddeskundige’). This takes around 12 months. Next is that you need to follow the appraiser training (takes about 14 months). After that, you’ll work under an experienced appraiser in an apprenticeship that lasts 12 to 24 months. Upon completion, you are qualified to call yourself an appraiser.
Alternative to a realtor diploma?
The courses described above are all excellent but very challenging and suitable only for those fluent in Dutch. To work as a realtor quickly and efficiently (at a non-NVM office) or to start your own real estate office, Dutch Realtor Training is a great alternative—a true game-changer in the Dutch real estate market.
