Property Recruitment in 2025: What we’ve overcome – and what lies ahead

As we reach the halfway point of 2025, it’s clear that the property sector - and the recruitment landscape that supports it - has experienced a transformative six months. Challenges persisted, but so too did progress, resilience, and innovation.

Here’s our perspective on how the industry has evolved in the first half of the year, what we’ve overcome, and what we anticipate for the remainder of 2025.

The year so far: overcoming uncertainty and redefining priorities

Market resilience amid economic jitters

Despite lingering concerns over interest rates and inflation pressures that spilled over from 2024, the property market has largely stabilised. Commercial real estate has shown surprising buoyancy in urban hubs, while the residential market is starting to regain traction, driven by renewed buyer confidence and targeted government incentives for first-time buyers.

Recruitment across both sectors has rebounded, with increased demand for professionals in life sciences, data centres, asset management, valuations, development, and ESG roles.

Embracing flexibility and hybrid expectations

The continued evolution of hybrid work has had a ripple effect on hiring practices. Candidates in 2025 expect more than competitive salaries; they are prioritising flexibility, well-being, career development, and company culture. As recruiters, we’ve adapted by helping our clients refine their employer value propositions and improve candidate engagement.

Tackling the skills gap

While demand is high, the skills gap has not disappeared. Digital transformation, sustainability goals, and a greater reliance on data analytics mean employers are increasingly seeking candidates with a hybrid skillset blending traditional property expertise with tech-savviness and a strategic mindset.

Our challenge has been matching forward-thinking employers with talent that reflects the changing demands of the industry. So far, we’re proud of the connections we’ve made and the careers we’ve helped shape.

What lies ahead: trends and opportunities

ESG and green recruitment will accelerate

Net-zero targets aren’t optional anymore - they’re fundamental to future-proofing portfolios. As a result, we anticipate a spike in recruitment for roles focused on sustainability, compliance, and smart building technologies. Property companies investing in green expertise now will be ahead of the curve.

AI and proptech integration will reshape roles

AI is no longer a buzzword, it’s becoming embedded in property management, valuation modelling, customer service, and investment analysis. As AI tools grow more powerful, we foresee demand rising for tech-literate professionals who can bridge the gap between traditional roles and automated systems.

We’re advising both clients and candidates to view this as an opportunity: those who upskill and evolve with the tech will be the sector’s leaders of tomorrow.

The talent race will intensify

As the market becomes more competitive, talent attraction and retention will become a strategic priority. Employers who invest in clear career pathways, mentorship, and inclusive cultures will win the loyalty of top-tier candidates. We’re already seeing this shift in our conversations with clients; talent wants purpose, progression, and people-first policies.

We remain passionate about connecting ambitious people with forward-thinking property businesses. The first half of 2025 has demonstrated just how dynamic our industry is and how vital it is to have the right people in the right roles.

Looking ahead, we’re excited by the opportunities still to come. Whether you’re looking to grow your team or take the next step in your property career, we’re here to help you navigate the market with clarity, confidence, and insight.