If you have an interview for an estate agent role, or have been applying for roles and thinking ahead, it is good practice to consider what employers look for and how best to prepare. Ensuring you understand exactly what a potential employer may be looking for, such as key traits, and preparing thoroughly in advance, it can give you the best possible chance of landing the desired role. At Pear Recruitment, we work with candidates all across the UK securing suitable roles in the property industry, including estate agent positions. In this post, we discuss what employers look for in estate agent interviews, and how to prepare for the highest chances of success.
Key Traits Employers Look For in Estate Agent Interviews
For those applying for estate agent roles, understanding what employers are looking for in interviews can give you a significant advantage. Whether you're a trainee or an experienced property professional, estate agency roles demand a mix of interpersonal, sales, and organisational skills. It’s important to know the key traits that potential employers are looking for, and the kinds of things they might ask, to prepare properly and position yourself ahead of other candidates. Below, we share some key traits employers typically look for in an interview:
Strong Communication Skills
Estate agents need to communicate clearly and confidently with clients, buyers, solicitors, and colleagues. Employers will look for candidates who speak professionally, listen actively, and convey information in a way that builds trust. Expect to be assessed on your ability to explain property details, ask relevant questions, and maintain a friendly yet professional tone throughout the conversation.
Sales Ability and Target Focus
Estate agency is a sales-driven role, and interviewers want to see that you’re motivated by targets and confident in your ability to convert enquiries into deals. Be prepared to discuss any experience you have in hitting KPIs or closing sales. Even if you’re new to the industry, show that you understand the importance of performance and are eager to develop this skill.
Local Market Knowledge
A good estate agent knows their area, and employers appreciate candidates who can demonstrate some knowledge of the local property market, even if it’s just through research. You might be asked about recent property trends, average prices, or desirable neighbourhoods. Showing you’ve taken the time to understand the market proves your interest and proactivity.
Customer Service Skills
Estate agents are often the main point of contact for buyers and sellers, so excellent customer service is essential. Employers look for candidates who are patient, attentive, and able to manage expectations. Show you’re capable of maintaining positive client relationships, resolving issues calmly, and going the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction.
Organisation and Time Management
Estate agents juggle multiple viewings, valuations, client calls, and paperwork every day. In interviews, employers want to know that you can stay organised and prioritise effectively. Be ready to explain time management skills, stay on top of deadlines, and maintain accurate records. Demonstrating strong organisational skills reassures employers you can handle the fast-paced nature of the job.
How to Prepare for an Estate Agent Interview
Before the interview, it’s important to ensure that you’re well prepared to make the best possible first impression. Taking the time to understand the role, research the company, and anticipate common questions and answers, gives you the best chance of standing out in a competitive field. Here are some key preparation tips to help prepare for an interview:
Research the Agency
Start by reviewing the company’s website, social media, and current property listings. Understand the areas they cover, the types of properties they sell or let, and their overall style and brand. Showing this knowledge in the interview highlights your enthusiasm and interest in joining their team, and also helps tailor your answers to align with their values.
Prepare Real-Life Examples
Employers will often ask situational questions, such as ‘tell me about a time you handled a difficult client’. Prepare a few examples that showcase communication, sales, and problem-solving abilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and professionally. Real-life examples make your strengths more believable and relatable.
Understand the Job Requirements
Make sure you know what the day-to-day role involves, whether it’s a sales negotiator or letting assistant position. Read the job description thoroughly and think about how your experience and qualities match the criteria. This helps you speak confidently about why you’re a good fit and shows the employer you’ve taken the role seriously.
Estate Agent Jobs with Pear Recruitment
At Pear Recruitment, a specialist recruitment agency, we help candidates find the right roles for them within the property industry, with a wide range of vacancies including estate agent jobs. We recruit for estate agent jobs across London, Essex, Hertfordshire, and Kent at various levels, from trainee to senior roles. Our expert recruitment team matches individuals with estate agent roles that suit your goals, experiences, prepare you for interviews, and handle all negotiations to secure your desired salary. Register with us today to get started on finding the ideal estate agent role.
