Hong Kong estate agent licences and buying an agency business

Which licence and business records matter?

The Estate Agents Authority (EAA) distinguishes estate agent and salesperson licences. A company operating as an estate agent must meet the EAA’s company licensing criteria, including a licensed director and licensed agent in effective control of estate agency work.

The EAA requires a Statement of Particulars of Business for each business name and place of business. Check the current company licence and relevant statements for the actual business you may acquire.

Before discussing an agency acquisition

• Search the EAA licence list by licence number, company or business name, and check the current status.
• Ask who owns the shares, who is authorised to sell, and whether the proposed deal concerns shares, assets or the operating business.
• Review the business name and premises statements, directors, manager, staff and planned post-completion arrangements.
• Discuss notification or application steps for director, manager, company or premises changes with the EAA and professional advisers.

Buying shares does not automatically grant an individual estate agent licence to a buyer. The company’s own licensing position and the proposed operating structure must be assessed for the specific transaction. A shareholder is not required to hold an individual licence solely because they own shares.

Ask EasyBiz to organise a private enquiry

Buyers can describe their target area, agency type, budget and timing. Sellers can provide a private first summary. EasyBiz will not treat an enquiry as a verified available business, and no seller submission is published without the seller’s approval and human review.