7 ways to boost team morale - and keep your best people for the long haul
High-performing teams don’t just appear - they’re built. And while technical skills matter, it’s culture, leadership, and communication that keep great people motivated and performing at their best.
At SONDR, we work closely with professionals across the real estate sector – from graduate surveyors to directors at leading consultancies. One thing’s clear: morale matters. In a high-pressure, high-stakes industry like property, it’s often the difference between a thriving team and a revolving door of resignations.
Here are seven common morale challenges we see in property teams – and how the best employers are turning them into opportunities to lead better.
1. Recognition makes a difference
Surveyors often go above and beyond – from delivering valuations under pressure to pushing through tricky deals. But when hard work goes unnoticed, motivation naturally dips.
Boost it: Make appreciation part of your everyday culture. Celebrate wins – big or small – and make people feel seen.
2. Trust builds confidence
Property professionals are trained to take initiative. Too much oversight can feel like a lack of trust.
Boost it: Set clear expectations, then step back. Empower your team to do what they do best.
3. Career clarity keeps people committed
Many talented surveyors want to grow but aren’t sure what their next step looks like. Without a clear path, it’s easy to start looking elsewhere.
Boost it: Be open about progression. Support development through regular check-ins, training, and structured plans.
4. Positive culture drives retention
We’ve seen great people leave not because of the work – but because of the atmosphere. A strong culture isn’t just nice to have – it’s essential.
Boost it: Address issues early. Set the tone from the top. Promote respect, collaboration, and accountability.
5. Communication is everything
When teams are left in the dark – about clients, projects, or performance – uncertainty creeps in.
Boost it: Keep communication consistent and honest. Make time for team updates and one-to-ones, especially during busy periods.
6. Workload balance matters
The pace of property can be intense – but constant overload quickly leads to burnout.
Boost it: Monitor capacity, staff appropriately, and make space for rest. Promoting well-being isn’t a weakness – it’s a retention strategy.
7. Purpose powers performance
Most people want more than just a salary – they want to know their work means something.
Boost it: Connect the dots. Show your team how their role supports clients, communities, and long-term outcomes.
Happy, motivated teams don’t happen by accident. They’re built intentionally - through clarity, communication, and culture.
If you’re struggling to attract or retain the right people, it might not be a recruitment issue - it could be a morale one. And that’s something worth fixing.
Download our 2025 Real Estate Salary & Trends Guide for exclusive insights into what’s driving professionals in the UK property sector. Or better yet, get in touch with us at SONDR and we can help you build a long-term team.