Jobs and Careers Autumn 2017 - 238
RIGHT UP YOUR STREET? JOB OPPORTUNITIES DON'T END ONCE A HOUSE IS BUILT. THERE ARE PLENTY OF CAREERS TO FOLLOW IN PROPERTY A lthough the property industry overlaps with construction, they offer two distinct career paths. Working in property is more than just sales - it could see you involved with the management of properties, for example letting them out to tenants or arranging redevelopment. Property is generally split into three types: residential, commercial and rural. Excellent communication and numeracy skills, plus commercial awareness, are key in the property world. Here are five jobs you may wish to consider in this industry. Town planner This is a great role if you want to be involved in the management, development and regeneration of an area. Planners analyse the use of land and decide how it would best meet the needs of the area, whether that is a town, village or city. They need to balance a number of needs including housing, transport, agriculture and environmental issues. As a town planner you'll negotiate with developers, consult residents and businesses, design planning policies and assess planning applications. What skills do I need? Planners need to be creative so they can find solutions to planning problems. As you'll be working with lots of different interest groups, good interpersonal skills are a must. You also need to be organised to review applications, write reports and manage projects. What's the route into the job? Jobs are available in most areas of the UK, as every local authority employs planners. Planning consultancies are also located throughout the UK. Most people start at administrative level and work their way up. Within the first few years, you should join the Royal Town Planning Institute Young Planners Network, which gives you access to training, social events and useful resources. How much can I earn? Starting salaries for graduates and at assistant level range from £18,000 to £25,000. With experience this can rise to £45,000 or more. Commercial or residential surveyor In these roles, you'll deal with all aspects of residential and commercial property, whether it's sales, purchases, leases or management. A key part of this job includes assessing properties and placing a value on them, using your knowledge of the market. Surveyors don't just get involved with existing properties. You could also be asked to manage the entire development of a property, from greenfield stage - when 2 3 8 /// J O B S & C A R E E R S 238 J&C JC17 Property jw3.indd 238 17/11/2017 20:44