A Day in the Life of a Self-Employed Estate Agent

You value your freedom, and you’ve decided to set up your own business. Estate agency is an ideal sector for this—rewarding, people-focused, and full of exciting challenges. It also offers a variety of career opportunities. One of the most accessible and appealing roles is that of an independent estate agent. It requires no formal qualifications, allows you to work at your own pace, and, if you join a supportive network like iad, offers excellent prospects for business growth.

If you already have an idea of what a salaried estate agent’s day looks like, you might be curious about how a typical day as a self-employed estate agent is organised. Here’s an overview to help you understand what the role entails.

A Typical Day as a Self-Employed Estate Agent

Set Your Own Schedule

One of the main benefits of being a self-employed estate agent is the ability to structure your days to suit your personal needs. Some agents choose to work four days a week to have Wednesdays free for family time, while others align their schedules with their partners. You might even work part-time during a transitional period. The choice is entirely yours.

Starting Your Day: Staying Informed

Most agents begin their day by reviewing their tasks. This could include confirming appointments with clients or prospects to avoid unnecessary travel and ensuring a smooth schedule.

Planning your day might also involve using digital tools to identify new leads and stay updated on market developments in your area. Reading local and industry news can provide valuable insights to share with clients, such as upcoming infrastructure projects that might influence property values.

Client Interaction and Canvassing

The majority of your time can be devoted to engaging with clients and prospects. Lunchtimes can be an excellent opportunity to make calls, while afternoons and evenings are ideal for property viewings and meetings. Being flexible and strategic with your schedule can help you maximise your productivity and build strong client relationships.

Leveraging the iad Network

While you’re independent, you’re never alone. From the start, you’ll have a mentor to guide you through your initial setup and ongoing activities. You’ll also collaborate with other iad agents who help each other. Over time, you can build your own team and become a mentor yourself, creating a network that supports your business growth.

The mentoring system

Comparing Independent Estate Agents and Employed Agents

Status and Responsibilities

An employed estate agent typically works in a high street office. They handle tasks like property management, drafting contracts and conducting valuations. They often have a set schedule, work from an office, and are subject to the agency’s policies.

In contrast, independent estate agents like those in the iad network focus on client relationships and property transactions. They work remotely and manage their own schedules, giving them the flexibility to prioritise tasks that drive revenue.

Training and Development

The property industry is constantly evolving, with new legislation, tools, and strategies emerging regularly. iad offers personalised training through an online university, allowing you to learn at your own pace. You can also attend in-person sessions to connect with trainers and other agents in the network. Your mentor will provide additional support to help you stay ahead in your career.

Training at iad

Is This Career Right for You?

Every day as an independent estate agent is unique, offering the freedom to focus on what matters most—your clients and your business. Whether you’re looking for a career change or a more flexible lifestyle, this role provides the opportunity to build a successful, rewarding business on your terms.

Find out more about becoming a self-employed estate agent