New legislation to polish up the image of real estate agents could be in force by the end of this year.

Agents and brokers who have come up with their own DIY bill to improve standards throughout the industry are hoping the Government will look kindly on the plan.

The real estate division of the Chamber of Commerce hopes the Real Estate (Brokers and Agents) Licensing Bill 1999 will find favour with the Ministry of Finance.

Feedback from the Registrar of Companies is understood to have been encouraging so far and it is anticipated that the final draft of the bill will be complete by March.

The bill's scope covers changes to make the industry self-governing, improving training and professionalism, and providing enforceable rules.

It would replace the existing Real Estate Agent's Licensing Act 1976.

Cris Dapena, who has been one of the driving forces behind the move, said Government had given them encouragement on what they had done so far.

Officials have asked to see a concept paper. Once the paper is submitted, it is then dependent on the Government to see how quickly the legislation is processed.

It is likely that it would have to pass through various departments before anything is tabled in the House of Assembly.

The real estate agents have employed the services of a former Government draftsman to compile the bill -- a job normally done by the legislature -- in order to speed up the process.

But they are also seeking guidance from the Government as to the best way to proceed with the bill.

The plan already has widespread support from the industry and a meeting is to take place on Monday to finalise the details.

BUSINESS BUC