10 common myths about working in real estate: Valuation Surveyor edition

When people think of real estate careers, they often picture estate agents or property developers. Valuation surveyors rarely get the spotlight – and when they do, it’s often clouded by myths and misconceptions.

In reality, valuation is one of the most critical – and misunderstood – parts of the property sector. Whether you're considering a career in surveying or just curious about what valuers actually do, it’s time to separate fact from fiction.

1. “All valuation surveyors do is tick boxes.”

This is one of the biggest misconceptions. While valuations follow set frameworks, they require detailed market knowledge, critical thinking, and professional judgement. No two properties are the same, and a good valuer knows how to spot what makes a building – or a deal – unique.

2. “It’s just a desk job.”

Think again. Valuation surveyors regularly visit properties – from warehouses and offices to country estates. Site inspections, client meetings and market analysis keep the role varied and far from monotonous.

3. “You need family connections to get into it.”

Not true. The industry is working hard to improve accessibility, with routes in for school leavers, graduates, and career-changers alike. Many firms now offer apprenticeships and structured training schemes.

4. “There’s no career progression.”

In fact, valuation is often a launchpad. Many surveyors go on to become asset managers, fund managers, or heads of real estate. The skills developed are highly transferable across the sector. They have the same progression as other surveying disciplines which is up to director or partner level and in some businesses, can become an equity shareholder. It’s a good discipline as it can also give you good experience to be able to move into asset management should you wish to.

5. “It’s all about London.”

While the capital is a major market, there’s strong demand for valuers across the UK – especially in regional cities and rural areas. In fact, some of the greatest skills shortages are outside London.

6. “You have to be great at maths.”

While a good grasp of numbers helps, you don’t need a maths degree. The real skill lies in combining logic, market insight, and property knowledge – not complex calculations.

7. “It’s a boring job.”

Far from it. Valuers get access to a huge range of properties and play a key role in major financial decisions. From unique heritage buildings to cutting-edge developments, no two days are the same.

8. “Tech is going to replace valuers.”

Automated valuation models (AVMs) can support decisions, but they can’t replace professional judgement, site inspections, or local expertise – all crucial to lending, investment, and strategic advice.

9. “It’s just residential property.”

Valuers work across commercial, industrial, retail, land, healthcare and specialist sectors. Residential is only one piece of a much larger puzzle.

10. “It’s a man’s world.”

The industry is evolving. More women are entering surveying than ever before, and diversity and inclusion are a growing focus across the profession. 30% of the respondents to our 2025 Real Estate Salary & Trends Guide were female, and 85% of all respondents said their employer values Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in the workplace. 

Download your copy of our 2025 Real Estate Salary & Trends Guide for more insights into real estate workplace trends.

Valuation surveyors play a vital – if often underappreciated – role in real estate. If you enjoy problem solving, working with property, and influencing big decisions, it could be the perfect career path for you.

Think it might be for you? Get in touch with our expert real estate recruitment team today and let’s discuss your next career move.