If you’re working in the real estate industry and thinking about your next move, chances are you’re wondering:
“What do employers actually want in a candidate?”
And no, it’s not just about how many listings you’ve landed or whether you hit your sales targets (although those help).
At Sprout Recruitment, we work closely with agencies across NSW and beyond, so we’ve seen first-hand what makes a candidate stand out, and what gets overlooked. Here’s what real estate hiring managers are really looking for in 2025.
🔑 1. Intiative, Hustle & That Self-Starter Spark
You’ve heard it before, but we’ll say it again: self-starters win.
Whether it’s a leasing role, sales position, or office support job, hiring managers are drawn to people who don’t need to be micromanaged.
They want someone who:
Follows up before being asked
Finds opportunities instead of waiting for leads
Shows up ready to build connections and results
Real estate moves fast. Employers need people who can keep up, and ideally, get ahead.
💬 2. Personality That Fits the Office
Skills can be taught. Attitude? Not so much.
Culture fit is a top priority for many agencies, especially in smaller or boutique offices where team chemistry is everything.
That means they’re looking for:
Strong communicators
People with emotional intelligence
Team players (not lone wolves)
Energy that aligns with their brand
You don’t have to be an extrovert, but you do need to be authentic and easy to work with. People buy property—but they connect with people.
📈 3. Demonstrated Growth or Drive
Hiring managers are increasingly looking at trajectory, not just titles.
Even if you’re early in your career, they want to see that you’re learning, improving, and setting goals.
Bonus points if you’ve:
Taken on extra responsibility
Completed industry training or CPD
Been promoted internally or made a strategic move
Set clear sales, leasing or prospecting goals and worked toward them
It’s not about perfection, it’s about momentum.
🧠 4. Market Knowledge & Industry Awareness
Being able to talk confidently about market conditions, buyer trends, and local insights? That’s hot.
Employers want team members who are plugged in, not just showing up for the paycheck.
If you’re going for a role:
Know what’s happening in the local market
Read up on rate trends and buyer/seller behaviour
Show curiosity about your patch and your profession
It shows you’re invested, and thinking long-term.
🧩 5. The Right Experience for the Right Role
Of course, relevant experience still matters. But here’s the secret:
It’s not about having every box ticked. It’s about showing that you’ve got the base, and the attitude, to grow into the role.
For example:
Sales agents should be able to demonstrate follow-up discipline and resilience
Leasing consultants need time management, phone confidence, and client care
Property managers need to show organisation, calm under pressure, and legislation knowledge
Office support pros should have strong systems knowledge and people skills
The rest? You can learn, especially with the right agency behind you.
🌱 Ready to Make Your Next Move?
At Sprout Recruitment, we don’t just match you to roles—we partner with you to grow your career.
If you’re ready for a fresh opportunity in real estate, let’s chat. We’ll get to know you, not just your resume.
📩 Reach out today or check out our latest roles here.
