Valuation surveyors: why you’re in demand - and how to use it
If you’re a valuation surveyor right now, you’re in the enviable position of being one of the most in-demand professionals in UK real estate. And if it doesn’t feel like it, you might not be talking to the right people.
Let’s break down what’s behind this surge in demand, and how you can use it to shape your career.
The perfect storm for valuation skills
Valuation has always been a vital function in the property lifecycle, but today’s market conditions have made it even more business-critical. Here’s why:
Lenders and investors need more reassurance: With continued uncertainty around interest rates and sluggish capital markets, accurate, independent valuations are essential for risk management.
Developers are under pressure: Viability is tighter than ever, meaning every square foot must stack up on paper before projects can move forward.
Asset managers need baseline data: For any portfolio repositioning or value-add strategy, it starts with understanding what an asset is worth today.
This demand isn’t just theoretical - it’s visible. Teams across advisory firms are overwhelmed. Surveyors are being pulled onto projects faster than firms can resource them. And more and more valuation specialists are being poached into asset management, development, and transactions, further tightening supply.
Why this matters for your career
Put simply, you’ve got leverage.
Whether you’re newly chartered or a senior surveyor, this is a strong moment to take stock of where you are, and where you want to be. You’ve got the skills everyone wants. Now’s the time to ask yourself:
Are you being paid what you're worth?
Are you getting enough exposure to interesting or complex projects?
Do you have a clear path for progression, or are you just filling a gap?
Valuation doesn’t have to be a career cul-de-sac. It’s one of the best training grounds in real estate, with a high-level view of markets, metrics, and risk. Whether you want to stay and specialise or pivot into transactions, development, or investment management, this role builds your commercial credibility.
How to use your leverage
This market won’t last forever. So if you're thinking about making a move, do it smartly:
Audit your experience: Look beyond just the volume of valuations. Have you worked across asset classes? Have you dealt with loan security, portfolio valuations, or complex mixed-use schemes?
Get clear on your goal: Do you want better pay? A different culture? A route into asset management? Being honest about what you’re really looking for helps you target the right opportunities.
Speak to someone who gets it: Not all recruiters understand the nuances of valuation. At SONDR, we talk to firms every day about where they’re short-staffed, who’s hiring, and which teams offer real progression.
SONDR: the inside track for valuation surveyors
We work with valuation surveyors across the UK, from newly chartered candidates to heads of department. If you’re wondering whether now’s the time to move, or just want a sense check on your market value, drop us a message.
Your skills are in demand. Make sure you're making the most of it.
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