What Employers and Candidates Need to Know for FY 2025

As we enter the new financial year, the South Australian property and real estate industry is showing signs of cautious optimism — with steady demand in residential sales, increased activity in commercial leasing, and growing pressure on property management teams.

For employers and candidates alike, FY 2025 presents a unique mix of opportunity and challenge. Skills shortages persist across some key roles, but businesses are also reshaping their teams to reflect changing market conditions and client expectations.

Here’s what you need to know about the current hiring landscape — and where demand is rising across the industry.

Hiring Trends: What We’re Seeing Right Now

1. Quality Over Quantity

After a couple of years of rapid growth and aggressive hiring, many real estate businesses are shifting focus toward strategic, sustainable growth. The emphasis is now on hiring people who:

• Can deliver results independently
• Bring strong interpersonal and tech skills
• Align with long-term team culture and values

As a result, recruitment processes are becoming more selective — but also more proactive. Employers are open to conversations with high-potential candidates even if roles aren't officially advertised.

2. Increased Investment in Support Roles

With rising workloads and compliance pressures, agencies are increasingly hiring:

• Sales administrators
• Leasing assistants
• Receptionists and office coordinators

These roles are critical in improving efficiency and client service, and they often serve as stepping stones for those looking to move into sales or property management.

3. Retention Is a Priority

Many agencies are focused not just on hiring, but on keeping the talent they already have. Expect to see more emphasis on:

• Career development plans
• Flexible work options
• Bonus and incentive structure reviews

This also means internal promotions are on the rise — but only for those who’ve shown loyalty, growth and performance.

Where Demand Is Growing

1. Residential Property Managers

The demand for property managers continues to outstrip supply. Burnout and attrition remain issues in the sector, prompting agencies to offer:

• Higher salaries
• Reduced portfolio sizes
• Better admin support

Candidates with strong communication, organisation, and conflict resolution skills are especially sought after — even if they’re coming from outside the industry.

2. Business Development Managers (BDMs)

As competition increases, many agencies are turning to BDMs to grow their rent rolls and expand market share. This role is ideal for candidates with:

• A sales mindset
• Strong local knowledge
• A passion for client relationships

There’s also a push for hybrid roles, where BDMs assist with leasing or property management when needed.

3. Commercial Leasing & Asset Management

The commercial market is showing signs of resurgence, especially in logistics, retail, and office repositioning. This is creating demand for:

• Commercial leasing consultants
• Junior asset managers
• Assistants in corporate property teams

Employers are open to upskilling candidates with residential backgrounds who show strong aptitude and professionalism.

4. Strata & Facilities Management

As apartment living grows and building compliance becomes more complex, strata managers and facilities coordinators are increasingly in demand. These roles suit highly organised professionals who can juggle stakeholder management, budgeting, and compliance tasks.

Emerging Opportunities to Watch in FY 2025

• Sales agents with a digital edge: Those who know how to use CRM systems, digital listing tools, and social media are becoming more valuable than ever.
  
  
• Tech-savvy property managers: Agencies are investing in cloud-based software and automation — and they need staff who can adapt quickly.
  
  
• Sustainability and compliance-focused roles: Especially in commercial property, there’s growing attention to ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and building compliance, which may create new specialist positions in the coming years.

For Employers: Time to Reassess Your Hiring Strategy

Now is the perfect time to:

• Review your team structure
• Identify future skill gaps
• Invest in recruitment before the spring rush

Hiring reactively in peak season can lead to poor fits. Starting the search now gives you the upper hand — and access to quality candidates before the competition ramps up.

For Candidates: Be Proactive, Not Passive

If you’re thinking of a move this financial year, now is the time to:

• Update your resume
• Reach out to recruiters
• Consider what kind of role or culture best supports your growth

FY 2025 is likely to reward those who are clear on their goals and confident in their next step.

The property industry in South Australia is evolving — and so are the expectations around who’s hired and why. Whether you’re running a business or building your career, staying ahead of these trends can make all the difference.

Need help navigating the FY 2025 market? The Edge Recruitment team specialises in real estate and property roles across SA. Let’s talk about how we can support your next move — or your next great hire.