Student Spotlight: Tobi Adegboyega

We caught up with Tobi Adegboyega, who made a new start in Perth as a Property Manager after moving from Nigeria two years ago.

Tobi shares what he loves about the industry, how his past experiences have helped him in his real estate career, and how REIWA Training played a key role in his professional journey.

How did you get into real estate and why?

Tobi: My passion for connecting with people and building meaningful relationships is what brought me to real estate. With a background and master’s degree in hospitality management, I learned early on that every client deserves great service.

I bring that same hospitality mindset into real estate. It’s such a rewarding industry because you get to make a real difference in people’s lives.

How did you land your first real estate job?

Tobi: Before moving to Perth, I started Eko Shortlets, a real estate company in Lagos, Nigeria.

When I moved to Perth, I was studying for my CPP41419 - Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice with REIWA when I came across a job posting on REIWA’s job board. I joined an agency as a Property Manager in August 2024.

How do you think your life experience will help in your real estate career?

Tobi: Growing up in Lagos taught me resilience, adaptability and a strong work ethic.

Moving to Perth was a whole new challenge – a new city, a new culture and a new job.

What are the top three things you love about real estate?

Tobi: I love seeing a client’s happiness when they find the perfect home or achieve their investment goals.

It’s humbling when clients trust you with their most valuable assets.

Real estate gives me the chance to connect with so many different people from diverse backgrounds – including people who are setting up a new life in Perth just as I have. I am honoured to have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives.

What are your career goals?

Tobi: In the short term, I want to keep expanding my knowledge of the local market and real estate practices. I’m also working on diversifying my skills into business development and sales. Long term, my goal is to get my real estate licence and eventually open my own agency in Perth.

How did REIWA’s training help your career?

Tobi: REIWA’s training was a game-changer for me. It gave me a solid understanding of WA’s real estate market and covered everything from property management to sales, legislation and marketing.

The tutors were supportive and knowledgeable, and the material was easy to follow and super relevant for the current market.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting a career in real estate?

Tobi: Do your research and get the right qualifications – REIWA is the best place to start.

Focus on developing key skills you will use every day like communication, negotiation, problem-solving and networking. It’s all important!