What is the use of forming another association? It is a waste of time and resources.

Since the authorities do not wish to legislate the individual real estate agents and supported accreditation schemes are making no headway, what is stopping the Institute of Estate Agents (IEA) or industry leaders from self-regulation?

The IEA's Central Register Scheme (CRS) and its issuance of Practising Certificates to its members are positive moves towards self-regulation. Ultimately, the consumer and real estate agents in general benefit.

One can see from media reports that there are many proactive activities and forums that the IEA has been conducting and providing to further educate consumers and real estate agents.

The IEA's vehicle of the CRS has provided consumers the ability to authenticate the identity of the agent before they engage them. The IEA provides the platform for them to seek redress, if any. The issuance of Practising Certificates to its members provides further confidence and peace of mind for consumers. These are good positive steps towards self-regulation.

In order not to confuse consumers, perhaps the Registry of Societies could help by not allowing too many associations or organisations that claim to represent real estate agents or agencies to be set up. Not only will it drain resources, but it will also confuse the public.

Mohamed Anis Osmanbhoy