Last year, I emphasised the importance of Lettings Professionals obtaining their Level 3 Qualification. Recent developments, however, have compelled me to revisit this topic.
Over the past year in recruitment, I’ve noticed a significant shift: more hiring managers than ever are prioritising candidates with this qualification.
Sally Asling of ProFind Property Recruitment highlights, “Almost every Senior Property Management role I recruit for now requires the ARLA Level 3 (or equivalent) as an essential qualification. For Property Managers, it’s increasingly seen as a desirable asset, with the qualification making a tangible difference in salary increments.”
Property Management
In Property Management, the emphasis on qualifications is even more pronounced than in Lettings. The demand for the Level 3 qualification is rising, especially for managerial positions.
The average salary for a Property Manager in the UK ranges between £30,000 and £35,000 per year. To secure a position at the higher end of this spectrum, hiring managers increasingly consider the qualification essential.
For Senior Property Managers, with an average salary of £35,000 to £37,112 per year, the qualification is almost always a prerequisite.
Lettings
What a difference a year makes. Previously, companies often listed the qualification as “desirable.” However, in the last year, more roles are now advertised with the Level 3 qualification as “essential.” This growing trend is hard to ignore.
Candidates
Candidates, particularly those in the early stages of their Lettings and Property Management careers, are also recognising the importance of this qualification.
Sally Asling observes, “It’s interesting to note that candidates increasingly cite a lack of support for career progression and support assistance and access to qualifications as a reason for leaving their current roles. Those who lack access to training are actively seeking employers who will support them in achieving their qualifications.”
In my view, the efforts of ARLA Propertymark’s ambassadors on social media, particularly LinkedIn, have significantly raised awareness of the importance of these qualifications. With ongoing changes affecting the Private Rented Sector (PRS), Lettings Professionals are keen to stay informed and compliant. The sense of belonging fostered by ARLA Propertymark, through regional meetings and its network of ambassadors, is invaluable as the organisation continues to evolve.
