
The Chamber of Real Estate Builders Association (CREBA) Davao Chapter Chairman, Diosdado Mahipus Sr., has called on individuals aspiring to join the real estate industry as brokers or sellers to secure a real estate license as agents. During the “Business Matters” media briefing at Hukad, Abreeza Mall, Mahipus outlined the necessary steps to obtain this license, emphasizing the importance of industry integrity and adherence to legal standards.
Mahipus explained that aspiring real estate brokers must gather relevant experience, complete broker-specific training, and pass the broker licensing examination to qualify as licensed professionals. This process complies with the Real Estate Service Act (RESA) Law, or Republic Act No. 9646, which regulates real estate practices in the Philippines.
Under RESA Law, licensed brokers must register and pay a bond. Unauthorized practice, including offering real estate services without proper licensing, is strictly prohibited and carries penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. Mahipus highlighted the repercussions, stating: “We seek to unite and organize real estate brokers and salespersons in Davao City because under the RESA law, selling without authority from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) is prohibited. Many have been caught and fined, only to cry afterward because they weren’t aware of the RESA law. If caught, you will face criminal charges, with the minimum fine of ₱5,000 for the first offense.”
The chairman also addressed the prohibition of selling raw lands, clarifying that exceptions apply only when transactions occur within immediate family members. “When you talk about real estate properties, it refers to condominiums, subdivision lots, and certain cases of raw lands. Selling raw land is generally not allowed unless it involves family estate transactions. Furthermore, selling more than nine lots is penalized when it concerns raw land,” Mahipus elaborated.
CREBA Davao Chapter represents the region’s premier real estate developers, builders, and stakeholders, advocating for sustainable urban development and affordable housing solutions. Mahipus underscored the importance of aligning with legal frameworks to ensure professional growth, protect consumers, and promote ethical real estate practices in Davao City.
Through his call to action, Mahipus hopes to inspire compliance and elevate the standards of the real estate industry in Davao City—preparing brokers and sellers for a future built on trust and professionalism.