The real estate industry is huge, and we mean really huge. Property markets drive the economy, create communities, and shape the world we live in. But despite this, many young people (and even parents or teachers) aren’t quite sure what jobs actually exist in the industry.

That’s where the myths creep in, and long-held misconceptions develop. Let’s set the record straight and bust some of the most common misconceptions about getting into real estate.

Myth 1: “Real estate is just about selling houses or building them”

Lots of people immediately think of estate agents or construction workers when you mention property. And yes, they’re important parts of the industry. But real estate is so much broader.

For example, there are many different types of surveyors and planners, each with their own specialism:

• Commercial Surveyor – works with offices, shops, warehouses and helps clients buy, sell, lease, and manage property
• Residential Surveyor – assesses houses and flats, helping people understand a home’s value and condition
• Town Planner – shapes how land is used, making sure towns and cities grow in a sustainable and fair way
• Rural Surveyor – manages land and estates in the countryside, often working with farmers or environmental projects
• Building Surveyor – inspects buildings and makes sure they’re safe, efficient, and well maintained
• Quantity Surveyor (QS) – keeps construction projects on budget and on time

…and that’s just the start. There are also roles in sustainability, investment, project management, energy, urban design, and much more.

Myth 2: “Real estate isn’t people-focused”

Actually, it’s all about people. Deals don’t get done without relationships.

Real estate is a very sociable career. You’ll meet clients, colleagues, investors, planners, architects, and many others. Building trust, communicating well, and working together is what makes the industry tick. Yes, firms compete with each other, but they also collaborate to make projects happen.

Myth 3: “My parents don’t think it’s a proper profession”

We hear this a lot. Some parents see jobs like Law or Medicine as a ”proper profession” which leads some to pursue these careers despite a lack of genuine passion. But the truth is, real estate is a highly respected profession.

Here’s why:

• It’s regulated by professional bodies like RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and RTPI (Royal Town Planning Institute)
• To qualify, you need an accredited degree or apprenticeship, plus at least two years of structured training
• At the end, you sit an assessment (APC or L-APC), and once you pass, you become a Chartered professional
• Chartered status means you can add letters like MRICS or MRTPI after your name, and your earning potential grows as your career progresses
  
  

So yes, it’s a “proper profession”, with structure, recognition, and respect!

Myth 4: “You can’t study real estate at uni”

You definitely can. In fact, there are lots of university courses in the UK that are RICS or RTPI accredited (meaning officially recognised by the professional bodies).

Examples include:

• BSc Real Estate
• BSc Real Estate Management
• BSc Real Estate Finance & Investment
• BSc Planning & Development
• BSc Planning & Urban Design
• BSc Building Surveying
• BSc Quantity Surveying
• BSc Construction Project Management
  
  

And if full-time uni isn’t for you, there are also degree apprenticeships. These let you study part-time, earn a salary, and train on the job. The bonus? Your employer pays for your degree and training, and you still end up becoming a Chartered Surveyor at the end. You can read more from us about apprenticeships here.

Final Thought

Real estate isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s about people, places, innovation, and opportunity. Whether you’re interested in cities, the countryside, sustainability, finance, design, or development, there’s a pathway for you.

So the next time you hear one of these myths, you’ll know: the truth is, real estate is one of the most dynamic, people-focused, and rewarding careers out there.

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Hi Tina! Could you start with telling us a bit about yourself, your background, and your current role at Knight Frank?

I grew up in North London and went to a state school, where corporate careers were rarely spoken about. I have always been very extroverted and loved speaking to people, and I also had an interest in property. I used to spend time looking at luxury houses I could not afford, which sparked my early interest in real estate!

My passion for communication led me to study Spanish and Italian at UCL. During my year abroad, I secured an internship with Knight Frank in the residential business, inspired by my interest in luxury property. I really enjoyed my 16 weeks there, and my manager at the time, Craig Walters, encouraged me to apply for the commercial graduate scheme. With his support, I joined and have since completed rotations in St John’s Wood Sales, Global Portfolio Solutions, Data Centre Valuations, and London City Tenant Representation.

What does your day-to-day look like in your role?

It really depends on the rotation I am in, but here is an example of what my days look like now. Sometimes I will start early, around 7:45 am, with an office launch. This is when a new office building or floor is put on the market, and agents are invited to come and see the space over coffee and breakfast. It is a way of keeping up to date so that when a client asks about options, we can give them accurate and up-to-date information.

Once I am in the office around 8:30 am, I might prepare what we call availability schedules. These are essentially lists of office spaces that fit a client’s needs, such as location, size, budget, and style. It is a bit like putting together a personalised selection of options for them.

Some days involve viewing tours, where we take clients to see a selection of offices in person so they can get a feel for the spaces. Other days, I will meet with agents over coffee to exchange updates on what companies are looking for in the market. I also sometimes work on cashflow models, which are financial breakdowns that show clients the cost of leasing an office over time.

So, my days are very varied, a mix of market research, client-facing work, property tours, networking, and financial analysis. That variety is one of the things I enjoy most.

Could you tell us about your career journey leading up to the current day?

My career journey has been quite straightforward, thanks to my internship, which made me realise this industry was the right fit for me. The biggest decision I faced early on was whether to pursue residential or commercial property. Through the graduate scheme rotations, I discovered that I was better suited to the commercial side.

 I have been able to build on the skills from my degree, especially communication and languages, and combined them with my naturally extroverted personality to carve out my place in the industry. As I did not study real estate at university, Knight Frank has supported me by funding my master’s, which I am completing part-time online over two years. This shows that you do not need to have a real estate degree before applying, as the firm provides excellent training and development to help you gain the knowledge you need alongside hands-on experience.

What excites you about your job and the industry as a whole? In other words, what keeps you here?

What excites me most is the variety and energy of the industry. No two days are the same. One day I might be touring office spaces with clients, the next I am meeting agents, researching new opportunities, or working on financial models. I enjoy that mix of people-focused work and problem solving.

The property industry is also very broad, with many different paths you can take. While it is true that women have historically been underrepresented, that is changing, and I am proud to be part of that shift.

At Knight Frank, what keeps me here is the culture. It is a company that genuinely cares about its people. Graduates are supported, encouraged to explore, and given the freedom to find where they fit best. That sense of belonging and opportunity makes a huge difference.

What defines your "place" in the real estate industry?

For me, my place is about showing that you do not have to come from a traditional background to succeed here. I did not go to private school, and I had no connections in property, so I know what it feels like to enter an industry that can seem intimidating from the outside.

That is why I am passionate about making the industry more accessible. I have been involved with initiatives such as Pathways to Property and Making the Leap, which support young people considering real estate careers. Representation matters. When you see someone like yourself in the industry, it makes your own ambitions feel more achievable.

So, my place is not just about my career journey, but also about helping to open the door wider for others who might not see themselves represented in property yet.

It’s been great getting to know you, Tina! Finally, what encouragement would you give to someone who is considering a career in this industry?

Be authentic and true to yourself. Do not feel like you must fit a mould. The skills and qualities that make you unique can bring fresh perspectives to the industry. Your individuality is your strength, and it can open doors to opportunities you might not have imagined.

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This campaign is powered by 9 of the UK’s leading real estate firms: Allsop, Carter Jonas, CBRE, Cushman & Wakefield, JLL, Knight Frank, LSH, Newmark, and Savills. 

Naturally, firms within the same industry compete in some aspects, in particular for the best talent. But here, we’ve joined forces with one shared mission: to make the property industry more open, more diverse, and more accessible to young people like you.

Each firm brings a different perspective and different opportunities, from commercial property and rural land to sustainability, planning, investment, and technology. Together, we represent the scale and variety that exists across the industry. By teaming up, we're showing you that real estate isn’t just one traditional path, it’s a world of possibilities. You can learn more about us as individual firms below.

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Allsop

Allsop is an independent property consultancy with a reputation for integrity and innovation. Known as the UK’s largest and most successful property auction house, they also offer services in commercial and residential property, valuation, and management. Their graduate and early careers programmes provide hands-on exposure to the fast-paced world of property, where you’ll gain experience across different areas and be supported to achieve professional qualifications.

Carter Jonas

Carter Jonas is a leading UK property consultancy, bringing together expertise across residential, commercial, rural, planning, development and infrastructure. With offices nationwide, they offer a wide variety of graduate and apprenticeship pathways. Their early careers schemes are designed to give you structured training, mentoring, and the chance to gain professional accreditation (RICS or RTPI) while working on real projects that shape the built and natural environment.

CBRE

CBRE is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, with a strong presence across the UK. They provide strategic advice and solutions for occupiers, investors, and developers of property. Their UK graduate and apprenticeship programmes give you the opportunity to work alongside industry leaders, gain exposure to landmark projects, and progress towards chartership. CBRE emphasises professional development, collaboration, and innovation - with a clear pathway for ambitious young talent.

Cushman & Wakefield

Cushman & Wakefield is a global leader in real estate services, with 52,000 employees in over 60 countries. In the UK, their business spans agency, valuation, investment, planning, and project management. Their early careers programmes give you the opportunity to contribute to projects that impact cities, communities, and businesses, while receiving full training towards RICS or other professional qualifications. Their culture is described as inclusive, ambitious, and people-focused - making it a great environment to learn and grow.

JLL

JLL is a global professional services firm specialising in real estate, investment management, and development. With offices across the UK, they advise clients on everything from leasing and investment to sustainability and technology in property. Their early careers opportunities include graduate schemes, apprenticeships, placements and internships, all designed to support you through structured learning, mentoring, and qualifications. JLL focuses strongly on sustainability and innovation, so you’ll be part of projects that shape a greener, smarter future for real estate.

Knight Frank

Knight Frank is the UK’s leading independent property consultancy, operating globally with a strong reputation in residential and commercial real estate. Their graduate and apprenticeship programmes are designed to give you the experience and skills to become a chartered surveyor or planner. With a people-first culture, Knight Frank combines professional training with exposure to a diverse range of projects, from rural estates to London landmarks, giving you the opportunity to build a career that reflects your interests.

Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH)

LSH is one of the UK and Ireland’s leading property consultancies, working across office, industrial, retail, and residential sectors. They provide services in agency, building consultancy, investment, planning, and valuation. Their graduate programme offers structured rotations, mentoring, and full support to achieve RICS accreditation, while apprenticeships provide a practical route into the industry. At LSH, early careers talent are seen as future leaders, with opportunities to make an impact from day one.

Newmark

Newmark is a global commercial real estate firm with services spanning capital markets, tenant and landlord representation, valuation, project management, and consulting. In the UK, they are growing their presence and offering opportunities for graduates and early careers professionals to work on high-profile projects while learning from experienced teams. Their culture values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth, with routes to gain recognised qualifications as you build your career.

Savills

Savills is a global real estate services provider with an international network of over 700 offices. In the UK, they are a market leader across residential, commercial, rural, and planning. Savills award-winning future talent programmes see graduates and apprentices gain the training, experience and support they need to build fulfilling careers in real estate. Savills prides themselves on offering the best possible experience from the day you receive your offer letter, through the training programmes which support career development with opportunities up to director level.

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How to stand out when applying for jobs, internships or graduate schemes

Applying for your first opportunity in property - whether that’s work experience, an apprenticeship, or a graduate scheme - can feel overwhelming. But with the right approach, you can make a strong impression and boost your chances of success.

Here are some tips to help you along the way

1. Know What You’re Applying For

Before you hit "submit," take time to understand the role and the company.

• Read the job description carefully
• Research the company’s projects, culture, and values
• Think about how your strengths fit what they’re looking for

Tailored applications show genuine interest, and employers notice.

2. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter

Avoid sending the same CV and cover letter everywhere. Instead:

• Highlight skills and experiences that match the role
• Use keywords from the job description
• Keep it short, clear and professional

You might think a cover letter isn’t important, but when recruiters read hundreds of applications, a strong cover letter helps them see why you stand out and why you’re a good fit.

3. Show Your Personality

Employers aren’t just looking for qualifications. They want to know you.

• Use your cover letter or personal statement to explain what motivates you
• Share how you work with others
• Show what makes you unique

4. Highlight Transferable Skills

Don’t have direct experience? No problem. You’ve already built useful skills through:

• School or uni projects
• Part-time jobs
• Volunteering or extra-curricular activities
• You'll always have examples of skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management - these are all valuable in every role

Early careers recruitment teams understand that this is the start of your career, so direct experience is not a requirement.

5. Online Applications

Most firms use online portals or screening tools. Once you have some experience navigating these you'll become more confident with them.

• Keep formatting simple
• Stick to standard headings
• Avoid graphics
• Implement a grammar tool where possible
• Double check you’ve included everything asked for
• Watch deadlines - some schemes close early!

6. Psychometric Tests

Many applications include online assessments.

• Try practice questions beforehand
• Find a quiet time and place to focus
• Complete them within the deadline

Again, you'll grow in confidence once you've navigated your first one or two. We are always learning, so don't panic! They will become more familiar with time.

7. Assessment Centres

If you’re invited to one:

• Be positive and professional from the moment you arrive into the building, as the assessment is often across the whole day
• Work with other candidates, not against them
• Be inclusive and kind - you're also being assessed on what you would be like as a colleague
• Show curiosity about the company
• Stay engaged in group tasks, even if you’re not leading

8. Interview Preparation

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but practice helps.

• Research common questions and use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure answers
• Research the company and the role/scheme
• Think about how your skills fit
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask them (shows confidence, initiative and genuine interest)

9.  Follow Up

If you haven’t heard back after a couple of weeks, it’s fine to send a polite follow-up email.

• Shows professionalism
• Keeps you on their radar

(But if the employer gave you a response date, wait until that’s passed before you chase)

10.  Learn from Rejections

Rejections happen to everyone - even experienced professionals.

• Politely ask for feedback where possible
• Use it to improve your next application

Remember: persistence and resilience are key. Be mindful that personalised feedback is not always available

11.  Networking

Property is a very sociable industry, and networking is a big part of it.

• Ask questions when meeting people
• Make a good first impression
• Connect with them afterwards on LinkedIn to grow your network

Final Thought

Applying for opportunities takes time, but every step builds your confidence. With preparation, positivity and persistence, you’ll give yourself the best chance of success.

From all of us, good luck with your applications - the property industry is waiting for you!

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Identifying the right career path for you can be overwhelming and it can feel difficult to even know where to start. The property industry has lots of different routes for you to explore. You may already know that you want to pursue a career in property, but are unsure which avenue to take, or you may have no idea where your interests lay. 

That’s why we have created this short guide on how you can step into property to kick start your career. With the right mindset and approach, you can build confidence and develop essential skills to set yourself apart.

Open Days, Insight Events & Networking Sessions

These are a great, simple way for you to gain real exposure to what property firms do and what type of work you could be involved in. Employers will sometimes host skills workshops or industry presentations with local schools or universities, and can even host virtual sessions. Treat these events as more than fact finding sessions – use them to network and build relationships in the industry. 

Top tips

• Research firms ahead to find out the type of property work they do
• Engage with other students to build rapport and confidence, it also allows you to learn from them 
• Introduce yourself to professionals
• Prepare some insightful questions such as asking about their journey into property or what they enjoy about their work
• Take notes, focusing on elements you can take forward 
• Show curiosity
• If you are interested in pursuing an application, ensure you understand the eligibility criteria prior to applying
• Connect with people on LinkedIn after the event to build your network
• Complete follow up actions

How to apply

These types of events are normally advertised on employers’ websites directly, run through schools or universities or hosted by industry professional bodies such as RICS and RTPI. You can also sign up to alerts which will notify you of such events when they become available. Staying in touch with people you meet at an event can be a good way to hear about further events and opportunities.

Work Experience, Placements and Internships

From work shadowing to short term placements, these are effective ways to provide invaluable insights into the industry.

• Research different companies to work out what interests you and the type of work you would like to experience
• Be open minded to get as much experience as possible - every experience teaches you something
• Prepare a covering letter showcasing your skills, experience and motivations to gain a placement
• Contact firms via their recruitment email address or contact professionals on LinkedIn, being proactive is key!

Reaching Out to Companies

Here are some top tips for approaching companies for the first time:

• Be concise and professional
• Introduce yourself and your interests
• Ask for advice or an opportunity to speak to someone in the first instance
• Be open minded and flexible to areas of interest, this will give you more opportunities to gain experience

Finally, how can you build confidence and the skills to be successful?

Developing your interpersonal skills is just as important as understanding the industry. These skills include communication, problem solving, adaptability and team working. To improve these you can:

• Practice speaking in public or a professional environment 
• Complete mock interviews with your friends, family or careers teams
• Get comfortable with the terminology in the industry by listening to podcasts and reading news reports or industry articles
• Sign up to newsletters to build your knowledge
• Participate in team building exercises through extra-curricular or school work 
• Be honest and be you!

If you’re at school or college and starting to think about your future, you’ve probably heard a lot about going to university. But what if that’s not the right path for you? 

Good news: there’s another route.

It’s called an apprenticeship - and it could better suit you as a way to start your career, earn money, and gain real experience, all at the same time.

What Is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job where you learn on the job and study at the same time. You’ll spend most of your week working alongside professionals, and usually one day a week learning towards a qualification.

You get:

• Paid a wage
• Real work experience
• A recognised qualification

It’s hands-on, practical, and perfect for people who prefer learning by doing.

Why Choose an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are a great choice if you want to:

• Earn money from day one
• Avoid student debt - no tuition fees
• Get a head start in your career
• Build real experience in a professional setting
• Gain qualifications (including degrees in some cases)

You’ll also meet people in the industry, build your confidence, and learn skills that employers are looking for. 

Apprenticeships in Commercial Real Estate

Commercial real estate is all about buildings used for work or investment - things like offices, shops, warehouses, and apartment blocks. Companies buy, sell, rent, or manage these properties, and they need smart, reliable people to help.

What Could You Be Doing?

As a commercial real estate apprentice, you might:

• Help businesses find the ideal location for their shop or office
• Work out how much a building or piece of land is worth
• Support in managing large buildings or even whole developments
• Learn about eco-friendly and sustainable building design
• Assist in property deals, negotiations, and project planning

You’ll be learning about how cities grow and how property shapes the world around us - all while earning money and gaining real experience.

Spotlight: The Level 6 Chartered Surveyor Apprenticeship

This is one of the most popular property apprenticeships - and it leads to becoming a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor.

Here’s how it works:

• Start after your A levels (or equivalent)
• Work 4 days a week, study 1 day a week
• Learn on the job and in the classroom
• Get supported by your team every step of the way
• Finish in around 5.5 years - with no debt and over 5 years of experience

At the end, you’ll be fully qualified and ready for a long-term career.

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Why It’s A Great Choice

• Roles are available across the UK
• No two days are the same. It’s a mix of office work, site visits, and teamwork
• The industry is always changing
• You don’t need to be a property expert to start
• Big real estate firms offer proper training and long-term career paths

Is an Apprenticeship Right for You?

An apprenticeship might be a great fit if you:

• Prefer learning by doing, not just sitting in a classroom
• Are ready to dive into work and grow your skills
• Want to earn while you learn
• Are motivated, curious, and ready to grow
• Like the idea of building real experience that leads to a career
• Want a different route than traditional university

Final Thoughts

Apprenticeships aren’t a second choice – they’re a smart, respected way to start a serious career. You’ll learn on the job, meet people in the industry, and build a proper career – all without student debt or years of lectures. Your confidence will grow gradually with time and exposure to the industry.

So if you’re ready to step into the world of work and want to build a career with real impact — an apprenticeship in property could be the place to start.

If you’ve been exploring careers in real estate, surveying, or planning, you may have stumbled across the terms “cognate” and “non-cognate.” But what do they actually mean and why do they matter? Let’s break it down.

First, What Is a “Cognate”?

In career terms, a cognate is someone who is either studying towards or has already completed a degree that is accredited by the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) or RTPI (Royal Town Planning Institute). These are typically degrees in:

• Real Estate
• Town Planning
• Quantity Surveying
• Urban Design
• And similar property-related disciplines

This puts you on a clear, structured academic path into the real estate or planning professions. You’ll have already covered much of the content required to start the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) for RICS or the Licentiate/Chartered pathway for RTPI.

In short: you’ve got a head start.

Typical roles for cognates:

• Surveyor - Valuation, Building, Quantity, Commercial, Development, Rural
• Planner - Town, Development, Regeneration, Policy, Environmental, Transport

So Then, What’s a “Non-Cognate”?

A non-cognate is someone who doesn’t have an RICS or RTPI-accredited degree - but still wants to pursue a career in the real estate industry.

Think degrees like:

• Geography
• Business Studies
• Economics
• Engineering
• English Literature
• Art & Design

Or maybe you didn’t go to university at all. The good news? That’s no longer a barrier.

The industry is actively opening up and welcoming people from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Why? Because real estate isn’t just about buildings - it’s about people, places, and possibilities. Diverse minds help shape better, more inclusive environments.

Many real estate employers will sponsor non-cognates to complete a master’s degree alongside their graduate scheme to help them qualify for chartership with RICS or RTPI. This can be a challenging juggle, balancing full-time work with postgraduate study isn’t easy, but it’s also hugely rewarding. You’re applying what you learn in the classroom directly to your day-to-day work, surrounded by experienced professionals who can support and guide you every step of the way.

You’re not doing it alone, and the learning curve, while steep, becomes a launchpad for real career growth.

Graduate schemes for non-cognates can lead to:

• Surveyor - Valuation, Residential, Commercial, Rural
• Planner
• Project Manager

Apprenticeships are also a strong route:

Whether you're coming from school, college, or university, you can enter the profession via property apprenticeships and earn while you learn. Read more about apprenticeships here (link to apprenticeship article)

Non-cognates also thrive in business support roles like:

• Marketing
• Human Resources
• IT & Data
• Finance
• Operations
• Client Services

Cognate vs Non-Cognate: Which One’s Better?

It’s not about better or worse, it’s about what works for you.

A cognate pathway may offer a more direct route into becoming chartered, which can be great if you know from early on that you want to pursue a career in real estate. However, if you really want to pursue another academic interest, or already have a non-property degree, the non-cognate journey could be for you, helping you to bring fresh perspectives from other industries or disciplines. 

The real estate sector is evolving fast. Employers are now just as interested in your curiosity, communication skills, problem-solving mindset, and willingness to learn as they are in your degree title.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a cognate or a non-cognate, there’s a place for you in real estate. Ultimately, both routes can lead you to the same opportunities. The industry is looking for thinkers, doers, innovators, and collaborators from all walks of life. There really is something for everyone.

If you’re curious, ready to learn, and want to help shape the places around us, the door is wide open.

Are you exploring a career in the real estate industry? If so, you've probably come across a sea of acronyms that can feel like a secret language

From RICS to CAAV, these abbreviations represent professional bodies and qualifications that play a big role in shaping the built environment and our industry. Understanding them is very useful to help you navigate your path into this dynamic field.

Let’s break down some of the most common acronyms and what they mean for your future in real estate:

RICS – Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

RICS is a global professional body that sets and enforces standards in land, property, infrastructure, and construction. Becoming a RICS member (MRICS) is a mark of professionalism and expertise, highly respected across the industry.

RTPI – Royal Town Planning Institute

RTPI is the leading professional body for spatial, sustainable, and urban planning in the UK. Membership is essential for those pursuing a career in town and country planning, helping shape the places where we live and work.

APC – Assessment of Professional Competence

The APC is the process through which aspiring chartered surveyors and planners demonstrate their skills and knowledge to become chartered. It typically involves a structured training period of around 2 years, a written submission, and a final interview in the surveyors’ case.

AEE – Association of Energy Engineers

AEE is an international organisation that certifies professionals in energy management and sustainability. In real estate, AEE credentials are valuable for roles focused on energy efficiency and green building practices.

ICF – Institute of Chartered Foresters

ICF is the professional body for foresters and arboriculturists in the UK. While it may seem niche, forestry and land management are integral to rural estate management and environmental planning.

IEMA – Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment

IEMA supports environmental professionals and promotes sustainable development. In real estate, IEMA members often work on environmental impact assessments and sustainability strategies for developments.

CIBSE – Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers

CIBSE represents engineers who design, install, and maintain building services like heating, lighting, and ventilation. Their work ensures buildings are safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient.

UDG – Urban Design Group

UDG is a membership organisation for urban designers. It promotes high standards in urban design, which is crucial for creating attractive, functional, and sustainable urban spaces.

IHBC – Institute of Historic Building Conservation

IHBC is the professional body for conservation specialists. If you're passionate about preserving historic buildings and heritage sites, this is the go-to organisation.

CAAV – Central Association of Agricultural Valuers

CAAV represents professionals who advise on agricultural and rural property matters. Members often work on valuations, land management, and rural planning—key areas in the countryside property sector.

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Why Do These Acronyms Matter?

Each of these organisations plays a vital role in maintaining standards, offering training and information, and supporting professionals in their careers. Whether you're interested in surveying, planning, sustainability or engineering, there's a professional path, and a corresponding acronym for you!

The real estate industry is vast and varied, offering opportunities that go far beyond buying and selling property. By understanding these acronyms and what they represent, you're already one step ahead in building a meaningful and impactful career.

When people hear “real estate,” they often just think of estate agents or building sites. But the real estate industry is way bigger and more exciting than that.

It’s about creating, improving, managing, and protecting the places where we all live, work, shop, eat, and play; from city centres to rural farms. And it takes a huge mix of different skills and jobs to make it all happen.

Here’s a breakdown of the main areas of work you’ll find in real estate, and the types of careers available in each. For each area, there are a range of routes available, from apprenticeships to graduate programmes. 

Urban Design, Development and Planning

This is where ideas turn into real places. It’s about shaping towns, cities, and communities.

• Development: Finding land, getting planning permission, managing risk, and turning ideas into buildings or communities
• Planning: Working with councils, architects and communities to make sure places are built in the right way, and for the right reasons
• Urban Design: Designing how places feel, from walkable streets to green spaces

Roles include: Planner, Development Surveyor, Urban Designer

Building and Construction

Once a project is approved, someone has to make sure it’s built properly, safely, and on time.

• Building Surveying: Inspecting buildings, spotting problems (like damp or structural issues), and advising on repairs and upgrades
• Project Management: Coordinating the whole build - deadlines, teams, costs
• Quantity Surveying: Managing the costs of a project, from materials to labour

Roles include: Building Surveyor, Project Manager, Quantity Surveyor

Valuation and Capital Markets

Understanding how much commercial properties are worth and helping people invest in them - think shopping centres, office towers and even entire portfolios.

• Valuation: Figuring out and advising clients on the value of shops, offices, flats, land, etc.
• Capital Markets: Helping big clients buy, sell, or invest in real estate
• Investment Analysis: Using data to help clients make smart financial decisions

Roles include: Valuation Surveyor, Capital Markets Analyst, Investment Analyst

Commercial Property

Managing and advising clients on spaces like offices, shops, hotels and industrial sites.

• Agency: Helping businesses, institutions or individuals, lease, sell or acquire buildings
• Leasing & Transactions: Negotiating deals between landlords and tenants
• Property Management & Facilities Management: Looking after buildings day-to-day; repairs, tenants, budgets
• Advisory & Consulting: Helping clients with their real estate needs and business strategies

Roles include: Commercial Surveyor, Property Manager (Surveyor), Facilities Manager, Asset Manager, Consultant

Rural, Food and Farming

Yes, rural land and agriculture are part of real estate too. You could be working with estates, food producers, agricultural businesses, or renewable energy projects on farmland.

• Rural Surveying: Managing farmland, estates, and countryside projects
• Food & Farming Consultancy: Advising farmers and landowners on how to run land sustainably and profitably
• Forestry Consultancy

Roles include: Rural Surveyor, Food and Farming Consultant, Forestry Consultant

Sustainability and Energy

Making buildings and developments better for the planet (and for people). Consultants in this space help clients cut carbon, save energy, and meet sustainability goals. You might model building performance or advise on retrofits.

• Energy Consulting: Helping buildings use less energy and meet climate targets
• Sustainability Strategy: Planning greener developments, reducing carbon footprints, and working on biodiversity
• Engineering Consultancy

Roles include: Energy Consultant, ESG Analyst, Sustainability Advisor/Consultant, Engineering Consultant

Residential Property

Still part of the picture - but broader than just estate agents.

• Affordable Housing & Social Impact: Helping build homes for all income levels
• Residential Valuation: Working out what homes are worth for lenders or investors
• Build-to-Rent & New Homes: Creating and managing purpose-built rental communities

Roles include: Residential Surveyor, Affordable Housing Analyst/Surveyor, Development Surveyor

Core Business Functions

Real estate isn’t just about property, it’s also big business. That means every firm needs talented people in core business functions to help everything run smoothly.

• Finance and Accounting
• Marketing and Communications
• Human Resources
• Legal and Compliance
• IT and Operations
• Research Analysis

Roles include: Finance Analyst, Marketing Assistant, HR Coordinator, Legal Intern, Business Analyst, Research Analyst