What London Estate Agents Will Be Paid in 3 Years’ Time (My Honest View)

I spend my days speaking to London estate agents across every level, from first job negotiators to seasoned branch managers. I’m also liaising with clients daily, from corporates to independents. Consider that I’m fortunate to be privy to the information our global business is obtaining across the world in relation to tech and AI, via the likes of UAE and US. Here’s what I genuinely believe will happen to earnings in the UK Estate Agency market over the next 36 months…

The top 20% will earn more than ever

Strong values, deal-closers, and agents who can win instructions will be rewarded heavily. The value for an employer is in the individual employee’s network of client and ability to ultimately win and close business… the brand above the door is becoming less and less important, as we move into a world dominated by tech & AI. Commission structures will be aligned with results, not time served.

The middle will feel squeezed

Average performers who rely on volume, portals, or admin will no longer be paid average salaries. Instead businesses will be forced to:

• Lower basic wages
• Tighter commission thresholds
• Higher expectations, increased targets with the increased support in tech
• Standing still will quietly cost people money

Automation impact:

Admin-heavy roles will continue to disappear. AI, automation, and leaner branches mean fewer “support” positions. Agents who can’t justify their revenue contribution will inevitably struggle.

Location will matter more than loyalty

I’m already seeing £10k - £25k variations in annual salaries, for the same role depending on borough, unit types, and brand positioning. Many agents are underpaid simply because they’re in the wrong office, not because they’re underperforming.

Good career moves will be worth more than promotions

Internal promotions with minimal pay rises are becoming all too common. Strategic moves between agencies will outperform loyalty, for those who plan properly.

The uncomfortable truth

In three years’ time, London agents will either be earning significantly more…or quietly wondering why their pay hasn’t moved with the market. There will be very little middle ground.

If you’d like to meet our team, please reach out. We have tonnes of market data at our fingertips, all you have to do is reach out and ask.