Property management recruitment experts reveal insights on market transformation 

As someone who's spent over nine years in residential block management, I've witnessed firsthand how our industry has evolved. Recently, I sat down with my colleague Tommy Lamborne to discuss the current landscape for property management companies when recruiting. 

How flexible working has transformed estate management  

The biggest shift I've observed in recent years is the universal demand for flexible working. Pre-pandemic, it wasn't even part of the conversation. Now, it features in literally every discussion I have with candidates. 

The reality is clear, almost 100% of candidates want flexibility, whilst employers are pushing for more office presence. This can create a challenge when recruiting, especially for residential block management roles where relationship-building and mentorship remain crucial. 

I'm particularly passionate about supporting returning parents. The flexibility to manage school runs shouldn't cost us talented professionals. However, I believe flexibility must work both ways - the job still needs to remain a priority. 

The most in-demand opportunities in property management 

Development-focused roles consistently rank as the most desirable positions in our sector. New builds emerging from the ground offer genuine project work, which contrasts sharply with managing the same buildings year after year. 

Many professionals transition from managing agents to client-side developer roles. This progression allows them to oversee the estate management services they previously provided, creating an appealing career evolution. 

The biggest challenges facing block management companies 

Building Safety Act Implementation 

The Building Safety Act 2022 continues to create confusion across our industry. Despite being in effect for over two years, the legislation remains unclear for many practitioners. 

This regulatory burden represents a significant cost for both developers and block management companies and it's fundamentally changing how we approach building safety and compliance. 

The training and development challenge 

The industry's reluctance to invest in new talent perpetuates our wage inflation problem. When companies only hire experienced professionals from competitors, it contributes to cost pressures. 

The industry needs structured training programmes to retain quality talent and control cost, as the sink-or-swim approach isn't sustainable when portfolios generate substantial revenue and require immediate professional management. 

The solution lies in dedicated training roles - perhaps a head of block management without portfolio responsibilities, or specialist training coordinators. Assistant property manager positions that pair newcomers with experienced professionals represent the traditional route that has worked effectively. 

Career progression and earning potential 

Estate management UK offers genuine career advancement opportunities. Entry-level positions typically start between £28,000-£35,000, progressing to £35,000-£45,000, then £50,000-£60,000 for senior roles. 

The key is finding employers who genuinely value and support their property management teams. As I always tell people, if you're running an estate agency with a strong lettings business, your property management team should be the best in the business. It's the bedrock of repeat landlord business. 

Why AST Property Management Matters 

I'm passionate about this point: Assured shorthold tenancy (AST) property management is the bedrock of every estate agency business.  

Retaining landlords has never been more crucial, yet some agencies don’t put the property management team at the forefront. The recent salary increases in AST property management reflect this growing recognition, but there's still work to be done. 

Opportunities in block management 

Despite the challenges, our industry offers excellent career prospects. The combination of interesting work, good earning potential, and genuine progression paths makes residential block management an attractive choice. 

For those considering entry, research firms with strong training cultures. Look for deverellsmith and other recruiters who understand the sector's nuances and can guide you toward employers who invest in their people. 

The salary levels reflect the skill and responsibility required, managing multi-million-pound buildings and complex leaseholder relationships demands expertise that the market increasingly recognises and rewards. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What qualifications do I need to work in block management companies? 

You don't need specific qualifications to enter residential block management. Most successful property managers come from diverse backgrounds. However, firms increasingly value candidates with customer service experience, attention to detail, and strong communication skills. Some companies offer training programmes for graduates or career changers. 

How much can I earn in estate management UK roles? 

Entry-level positions start around £28,000-£35,000, with experienced property managers earning £50,000-£75,000. Senior roles and single-building estate managers can earn up to £110,000, particularly in prime London locations. Salary progression is typically rapid for dedicated professionals. 

What's the difference between residential and commercial block management? 

Residential block management focuses on apartment buildings, dealing with leaseholders and service charges. Commercial block management involves office buildings, retail spaces, and mixed-use developments. Commercial roles often offer higher salaries but require different skills around tenant relations and business operations rather than residential compliance issues. 

About the Contributors 

Will Kirby - Passionate about people and property, Will Kirby has built a career within residential Block Management at deverellsmith and now oversees a team looking after Concierge, Property Management, Estate Management and director-level hires.  

Tommy Lamborne - Tommy has over 15 years of experience working in Property recruitment and leads the Estate Agency, Rental Living, Property Management and Corporate Services divisions at deverellsmith. Managing all mid-senior level hires across Prime Central London & the UK, he has a vast knowledge of what exceptional talent looks like in the market.