What Skills Do Estate Agents Look For?
Many people assume that estate agencies only hire candidates with previous property experience. In reality, many successful estate agents started their careers in completely different industries.
While experience can be beneficial, estate agencies are often more interested in finding candidates with the right skills and attitude.
Communication Skills
One of the most important skills in estate agency is communication.
Estate agents spend much of their day speaking with:
- Buyers
- Sellers
- Landlords
- Tenants
- Solicitors
- Mortgage advisors
Being able to communicate clearly and confidently is essential.
Customer Service
Estate agency is a people-focused industry.
Candidates with backgrounds in retail, hospitality, call centres or customer service often possess valuable transferable skills that can help them succeed in property.
Employers look for people who can build relationships and provide excellent customer service.
Sales Ability
Many estate agency roles involve sales.
You don’t necessarily need previous property sales experience, but employers often look for people who:
- Enjoy working with people
- Are motivated by targets
- Can build rapport quickly
- Have confidence when speaking with customers
Organisation and Time Management
Estate agents often juggle multiple tasks at once, including:
- Property viewings
- Valuations
- Negotiations
- Administration
- Client communication
Being organised and managing your time effectively can make a huge difference.
Problem Solving
Property transactions can be complex and sometimes stressful.
Employers value candidates who can remain calm under pressure and find solutions when problems arise.
Positive Attitude
Perhaps the most important quality of all is attitude.
Many estate agencies are willing to train candidates who demonstrate:
- Enthusiasm
- Reliability
- A willingness to learn
- Professionalism
A positive attitude can often outweigh a lack of industry experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a career in estate agency, don’t be put off if you don’t have previous property experience.
Many of the skills estate agents look for can be gained through roles in retail, hospitality, customer service, sales and administration.
With the right attitude and transferable skills, estate agency can offer an exciting and rewarding career path.
Looking for a Career in Property?
Property Talent Co helps connect candidates with opportunities across the estate agency and lettings sector.
Join our candidate network today and take the first step towards your property career.