Our most recent poll has uncovered a surprising shift in the working habits of property professionals across the UK. A significant 42% now report commuting for more than an hour each way; a figure that might have raised eyebrows a few years ago but today reflects a growing desire for lifestyle freedom made possible by hybrid working.
Only 11% of respondents have a commute of less than 15 minutes, while 13% are now working fully remotely. This paints a clear picture: the conventional nine-to-five office routine is becoming a thing of the past. In its place, professionals are designing their working lives around personal priorities, and employers need to keep pace.
The Hybrid Work Effect
According to research from Savills, professionals in the real estate sector have reduced their commute times by as much as 40%. Yet, paradoxically, many are choosing to live even further away from city centres. Why? Because hybrid working has unlocked the option to do so. With most professionals now only travelling into the office a few days a week, long daily commutes are no longer a burden; they are an occasional trade-off for more space, a quieter environment, and a better overall quality of life.
This trend reflects a broader recalibration of values. Proximity to the office is no longer the central consideration it once was. Instead, professionals are seeking out homes that align with their personal aspirations, whether that means more outdoor space, a home office, or simply a slower pace of life.
Implications for Employers
For employers in the property sector, these findings present both challenges and opportunities. Flexibility can no longer be positioned as a benefit; it is an expectation. Candidates are making career decisions based not only on role and salary but also on how well a position supports the lifestyle they want to lead.
Firms that embrace this shift will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent. This means rethinking how work is structured, ensuring that digital tools support seamless remote collaboration, and reimagining the purpose of office spaces as hubs for connection, creativity, and culture rather than places of routine attendance.
Equally, it underscores the importance of having a clear employer brand. Professionals are no longer simply seeking jobs – they are seeking alignment with employers who understand the realities of modern working life and are prepared to support it.
Looking Ahead
Our poll is just one part of a broader research initiative exploring how hybrid work is influencing candidate expectations, career decision-making, and recruitment strategy across the industry.
We have summarised the full findings, along with key predictions for 2025, in our latest insights report. If you’re interested in understanding how your business can evolve in step with these trends, or if these results resonate with what you’re seeing in your team, we’d be delighted to hear from you.
To find out more, get in touch with our team today.
