After years of pressure from professional associations and real estate groups, a new registration requirement for Realtors is set to begin on October 16. The change makes it mandatory for anyone who wants to work in buying and selling homes to register with the relevant authority. The aim is to raise professional standards across the sector, reduce intrusive practices, and increase protections for both buyers and sellers. The Alicante API College, led by Marifé Esteso, has been among the most vocal advocates for implementing this registry.
The registration framework was approved at the end of the previous year, with the decree detailing its operation issued on August 16. From October 16 onward, real estate professionals will have six months to demonstrate compliance with the new requirements and complete the registration process. For API College members, many conditions have already been satisfied. In fact, the agency has offered support to other industry professionals to help them meet the new obligation.
A key requirement is professional liability insurance, paired with a bond that covers the signals and commitments made to clients. This bond will be mandatory, and professionals must also be part of a public organization, either a real estate office or a registered office, with specialized education standards. The decree also allows certain experienced professionals to verify their expertise based on their years in the field instead of completing the standard training pathway.
Experts estimate that about 1,200 real estate agents are currently operating in the province. The head of Alicante APIs welcomed the measure, noting the importance of structured regulation to protect consumers and ensure the proper organization of professional activities. Esteso has argued that the obligatory nature of the regime should be extended nationwide, arguing that voluntary adherence in other regions does not meet the consumer protection and professional standards aims of this initiative.
From the education front, preparations are underway at the school level to deliver training that aligns with the new rules while building on what is already taught at the University of Alicante. COAPI is also involved in this effort. The aim is to open the door to all professionals in the province, ensuring they can meet every requirement and pursue their professional activities with confidence and clear assurances for clients.
Overall, the reform signals a shift toward greater accountability in the real estate market. By mandating registration, insurance, and verified education, the sector hopes to offer stronger guarantees to buyers and sellers alike while helping practitioners maintain high standards. This move is framed as a necessary step to professionalize the industry and curb practices that could undermine trust in property transactions. The Alicante region is watching closely as the October deadline approaches and a broader discussion about voluntary adoption across other communities continues to unfold. The long-term goal remains a transparent, well-regulated market where professionals operate with clear obligations and clients enjoy predictable protections. Citations: Alicante API College, Marifé Esteso, COAPI.