The real estate landscape is in perpetual flux, and 2025 brings fresh challenges (and opportunities) for firms trying to attract and retain top talent.
Hiring in this environment is no longer just about filling roles. It’s about future-proofing your team with people who can adapt, innovate, and thrive amid uncertainty. So, what do real estate firms need to know in 2025 to build a winning workforce?
1. The Market Is Slower. The Hiring Game Isn’t
While the market may be cooling in some sectors, the competition for talent is still heating up. A slower market doesn’t mean it’s time to hit pause on hiring. In fact, it’s the perfect time to strengthen your bench.
As noted in a recent report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), firms that invest in talent during downturns often emerge stronger when the market rebounds.¹ Hiring during a quieter season gives firms time to onboard strategically, develop skills, and build culture without the high-stress churn of peak cycles.
2. Adaptability Is the #1 Skill in 2025
Sure, experience still matters, but agility might matter more. Successful real estate leadersl need to do more than sell. They’ll need to:
- Interpret data and trends
- Navigate shifting buyer/seller expectations
- Work seamlessly with proptech tools
- Build trust in increasingly digital transactions
Soft skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and resilience are becoming hiring differentiators. According to LinkedIn’s 2024 Future of Recruiting Report, 92% of talent professionals say soft skills are just as important—if not more so—than hard skills.²
3. Hybrid Is Here to Stay
Even in real estate—a traditionally face-to-face industry—hybrid and flexible work models are gaining traction. Think remote marketing teams, virtual assistants, and transaction coordinators working across time zones.
Firms that offer flexible work environments can tap into a broader talent pool and attract candidates who may have been out of reach geographically in the past.
Pro tip: Flexibility doesn’t mean chaos. Clear expectations, digital collaboration tools, and regular check-ins are key to making hybrid work… well, work.
4. Brand and Culture Are Your Superpowers
Top candidates aren’t just looking for a job—they’re looking for a fit. That means your employer brand needs to show more than just commission splits and sales volume.
Highlight your team culture, your values, and how you support career development. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses on social media. Talk about mentorship, wellness, or your community impact.
The firms that win in 2025 will be those that make people feel like they’re joining something bigger than just a business.
5. Speed (and Clarity) Win Offers
In a competitive market, top candidates won’t wait around for multiple rounds of interviews or vague salary ranges. Streamline your hiring process and be transparent about what you’re offering.
- Have a clear job description
Outline benefits and career progression
Move quickly, but thoughtfully
Remember: the candidate experience is often the first impression of your company culture. Make it a good one.
Conclusion
Hiring in 2025 isn’t about playing defense—it’s about building your offense. Real estate firms that recognize the changing landscape and adapt their approach will not only survive, but thrive.
So whether the market is up, down, or somewhere in between, one thing is certain: great talent is still the best investment you can make, and ROI can help you stay ahead of the curve. Get in touch here.
Citations:
- National Association of Realtors. (2024). Market Trends Report. https://www.nar.realtor
- LinkedIn. (2024). Future of Recruiting Report. https://www.linkedin.com/business/talent/blog
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