The housing industry plays a vital role in the growth and development of communities, offering diverse career opportunities for those passionate about property management, housing development, and tenant services. Whether you're new to the sector or looking to switch careers, this guide will help you get started.
What Is the Housing Industry?
The housing industry encompasses the management, development, and maintenance of residential properties. It covers a wide range of roles, from managing rental properties to ensuring housing projects are built to meet community needs. With an increasing demand for affordable housing and property management services (there are currently 1.29 million households on local authority waiting lists), now is an excellent time to start a career in housing as the sector expands.
The housing industry offers a range of roles, including:
Property Manager:
Role Overview: Overseeing a portfolio of properties, managing service charge income, resolving all leaseholder queries, and preparing any Right to Buy applications.
Average salary: £29k-£33k
Essential Skills: understanding of relevant legislation (such as the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985), experience in service charge calculations, and excellent customer service.
Housing Officer:
Role Overview: working with tenants, processing applications, identifying and reporting property faults, and ensuring properties meet legal standards.
Average Salary: £24k-£27k
Essential Skills: conflict management and resolution, strong customer service skills, and an ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.
Maintenance Operative:
Role Overview: Responsible for property repairs, ensuring maintenance standards, and ensuring all spaces are enhanced to the highest standards.
Average Salary: £24k-£27k
Essential Skills: Machinery operation, tool proficiency, and the ability to work with minimal supervision.
Social Housing Specialist:
Role Overview: Supporting affordable housing projects and working with government bodies to provide housing solutions from homeless prevention to sheltered housing.
Average Salary: £25k-£29k
Essential Skills: Strong knowledge of social care services, awareness of health and safety practices in a supported living context, and excellent interpersonal skills.
How to Get Started in the Housing Industry
If you're looking to break into the housing industry, there are several steps you can take to get started:
Gain Experience - Consider seeking internships or entry-level positions, such as housing assistant or property management support. These roles will allow you to learn about the day-to-day operations in a housing role.
Earn Relevant Qualifications - Whilst not always needed, certifications in property management or housing law can make you more competitive in the job market. Professional organisations, such as the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), offer courses and resources to help you build your skills.
Tailor Your CV- Highlight transferable skills from any previous experience, such as customer service, project management, or problem-solving, which are all valuable in the housing industry . For more tips on creating a strong CV, check out our guide to CV writing.
What skills do I need to work in Housing?
To succeed in the housing industry, it is important to have a combination of both practical and interpersonal skills to help you navigate the diverse challenges of the sector:
Strong Communication Skills – clear communication is essential for interacting with tenants, landlords, and colleagues, and for resolving issues effectively.
Critical Thinking – quick thinking and adaptability are vital for addressing maintenance issues and tenant concerns.
Customer Service – providing excellent customer service helps build long-term relationships and enhances tenant satisfaction.
Knowledge of Housing Regulations – an understanding of housing laws and tenant rights ensures all operations follow legal standards, and protects all parties involved.
Working with Recruitment Agencies
One of the best ways to break into the housing industry is to use a recruitment agency. Recruitment agencies specialise in connecting job seekers with employers in specific industries, including housing. They can help you find opportunities that match your skills and experience and guide you through the application process.
Industry Expertise - Recruitment agencies have a deep understanding of the housing sector and can match you with positions that align with your qualifications and career goals.
Access to Exclusive Roles - Many employers partner with recruitment agencies to fill their vacancies. By working with an agency, you can gain access to job openings that aren’t listed on public job boards.
Personalised Job Search - Recruitment consultants work closely with you to understand your career goals and offer tailored job recommendations. They can also provide valuable interview coaching and CV tips.
Support Throughout the Process - Agencies will support you throughout the hiring process, from your initial application to your first day on the job, making the transition into a new role smoother and easier.
If you're looking for guidance in your housing job search, our housing recruitment team can help you find the perfect opportunity. The housing industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, whether you're interested in property management, housing development, or maintenance. By gaining experience, earning relevant qualifications, and tailoring your CV , you can quickly start your career in this dynamic sector
Ready to take the next step in your housing career? Browse our current vacancies to explore exciting opportunities available today!
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