
Industry Guide
-22.3% YoYReal Estate & Property Development Careers for Young People
Real estate and property development is about buying, selling, managing, improving and planning buildings or land. Roles can include estate agency, lettings, property management, surveying, development, customer service, marketing and operations.
Real estate and property development is about buying, selling, managing, improving and planning buildings or land. Roles can include estate agency, lettings, property management, surveying, development, customer service, marketing and operations.
Salary range
£30,000 - £55,000
Role types
3 to explore
Trade association
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors →
Bonus strengths
Extra strengths that give you an edge in Real Estate & Property Development.
Who works in this industry
Growth and hiring
Vacancies appear to be lower year on year (around -22.3%). That is roughly 3k fewer vacancies than the comparison period. The latest vacancy estimate is still about 11k. A dip does not mean there are no jobs — it usually means being more targeted about applications, training and local opportunities.
Opportunities & challenges
Opportunities
- Routes include estate agency
- lettings
- property management
- surveying
- customer service
- marketing
- development support and operations. Local market knowledge and people skills matter.
Challenges to navigate
- Things to be aware of: the market can rise and fall
- targets may be sales-driven
- and customers can be making big stressful decisions. Trust and professionalism matter.
Traits employers value
What the work feels like
How to get started
Interview tips
- Show confidence with people
- local awareness and professionalism. Prepare an example of customer service
- negotiation
- organisation or solving a practical problem. If you know the local property market or have noticed a development nearby
- mention it. Trust and clear communication are key.
Role types in Real Estate & Property Development
Real estate & property development: building communities, creating value
The real estate and property development industry is about shaping the spaces where people live, work, and play. From selling homes to planning new developments, this sector is perfect for young people who are entrepreneurial, organised, and want to make a visible impact on their community.
What Kind of People Thrive Here?
Real estate and property development careers are a great fit for ambitious, organised, and people-focused individuals who enjoy shaping communities and seeing ideas come to life. People who thrive here are confident communicators, good at building relationships, and enjoy solving practical problems. If you have an eye for detail, like working with numbers or design, or enjoy negotiating and planning, your skills will be valued. The sector welcomes those who are adaptable, driven, and ready to help others find their perfect place.
- Entrepreneurial Minds: Enjoy spotting opportunities and making deals.
- Organised Planners: Good at managing projects, deadlines, and details.
- People Persons: Love meeting new people and building relationships.
- Creative Problem-Solvers: Enjoy tackling challenges and finding solutions.
Real Estate & Property Development: Key Insights
- Growth Potential: The sector is always evolving, with new roles in sustainable development, property management, and digital marketing. There’s demand for estate agents, surveyors, property managers, and planners.
- Opportunities in Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk (E/H/S): Local agencies, developers, and councils regularly hire young people for entry-level roles and apprenticeships.
- Earning Potential: Entry-level real estate roles start at £20,000–£25,000, with experienced agents, surveyors, and managers earning £30,000–£60,000+ (plus commission in sales roles).
How to Start Your Real Estate Career
If you want a career that’s dynamic, people-focused, and shapes the spaces we live and work in, real estate and property development could be your perfect fit. Whether you’re passionate about sales, design, or helping others find their place, there’s a place for you to thrive. Ready to build your future? Explore your potential in real estate today!
Explore More About Real Estate & Property
- Emerging Trends: Learn about smart homes, sustainability, and digital property tools.
- Skills Needed: Find out which sales, negotiation, and organisational skills are valued.
- Roles & Career Paths: Explore jobs from estate agent to property developer.
- Interview Prep: Get advice tailored to property job interviews.
- Expert Insights: Hear from agents, developers, and industry leaders.
- Tools & Resources: Access guides and links to help you get started.
FAQs
What jobs are available for young people in real estate and property?
Estate agent, property manager, surveyor, admin assistant, planner, and more.
Do I need a degree to work in real estate?
Not always—many roles are open to school leavers and apprentices.
What skills help you succeed in real estate careers?
Sales, organisation, communication, and problem-solving.
Are there entry-level property jobs in Essex, Hertfordshire, or Suffolk?
Yes—local agencies and developers regularly hire young people.
If you want a career that’s dynamic, people-focused, and shapes the spaces we live and work in, real estate and property development could be your perfect fit. Whether you’re passionate about sales, design, or helping others find their place, there’s a place for you to thrive. Ready to build your future? Explore your potential in real estate today!
Source: https://www.ons.gov.uk/employmentandlabourmarket/peopleinwork/employmentandemployeetypes/datasets/employmentbyindustryemp13 (Jul–Sep 2025)