Starting the journey to chartership
I have now been with Vickery Holman for over two years, but I officially embarked on my journey to becoming a Chartered Surveyor on 31 March 2025, when I started my MSc in Real Estate.
My role in commercial agency
Over the past year, my role within the commercial agency team has continued to develop and I have been given the opportunity to work across a range of property sectors, including retail, industrial and office. No two weeks are ever quite the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about the role.
My day-to-day work can include attending viewings, carrying out property inspections with colleagues Anna and Jo, preparing marketing particulars, speaking with applicants and clients, and assisting with negotiations.
Taking on more responsibility
One of the biggest changes this year has been the level of responsibility I have been able to take on. I now have some of my own properties, which has been a really important step in building my confidence and understanding of the agency process from start to finish.
Being involved from the initial inspection and marketing stage through to viewings, offers and agreeing terms has helped me see how each part of the process links together.
Highlights from the year
There have been some memorable highlights along the way. One of these was speaking at our company day. Public speaking is not something I naturally enjoy, so doing a short presentation in front of colleagues was outside my comfort zone. However, I was pleased that I pushed myself to do it and it has helped me feel more confident in similar situations. This will also be useful for my APC final assessment, which includes a panel interview.
Another highlight was being involved in negotiating a dental investment property, where we achieved a figure above the asking price. It was rewarding to see the negotiation progress and contribute to a positive result for the client. Experiences like this have helped me better understand the importance of communication, timing and responding to different parties during negotiations.
MSc and APC training through a Degree Apprenticeship
Alongside work, I have been balancing my MSc in Real Estate and APC training through the Degree Apprenticeship scheme. Vickery Holman offered me the opportunity to undertake the apprenticeship, which funds my MSc and supports my route towards becoming Chartered.
Since starting the MSc, I have completed modules in Property Transactions, Planning and Development, Law for Surveyors, Valuation and Ethics. I am currently studying Property Management and Applied Valuation, and preparing for my 12,500-word dissertation, with the course due to finish in February 2027.
What I have learned so far
Managing work, study and APC commitments can be challenging, but the three areas support each other well. The MSc gives me wider technical knowledge, while my day-to-day role provides practical experience to apply it.
Over the last year, I feel I have developed most in confidence, communication and commercial awareness. I have become more comfortable speaking with clients, applicants and other professionals, and I have gained a better understanding of how commercial property decisions are made in practice. I have also improved my knowledge of inspections, measurements, leases, negotiations and the importance of maintaining strong client relationships.
Looking ahead
Looking ahead, I hope to continue building my experience, taking on more responsibility and developing my technical knowledge as I work towards sitting my APC in 2027. Becoming Chartered remains the long-term goal and I am excited to continue progressing with the support of the team at Vickery Holman.
