Working as a Commercial Agent at Savills is more than just a real estate role—it’s a strategic career move. Savills is one of the world’s leading property agents, known for its global reach and expert real estate consultancy. As a Commercial Agent, your primary responsibilities include negotiating property sales and leases, maintaining client relationships, sourcing new business opportunities, conducting valuations, and advising clients on market conditions and investment potential.
In the UK, a Commercial Agent at Savills can expect to earn between £30,000 and £60,000 annually, with senior professionals potentially exceeding £80,000 including commissions and bonuses. The role demands a mix of analytical skills, people skills, and a deep understanding of commercial property markets.
Whether you’re interviewing for a graduate trainee position or stepping into a more experienced role, these interview questions and answers will help you prepare like a pro.
1. Tell us about yourself. Keep it professional. Highlight your education, relevant work experience, and passion for real estate. Tie in your motivation to work with a prestigious firm like Savills.
2. Why do you want to work at Savills? Mention Savills’ reputation, global presence, commitment to sustainability, and innovative approach. Align these values with your own goals and interests.
3. What do you know about our commercial property services? Show you’ve done your homework. Mention sectors Savills operates in, such as offices, retail, industrial, and mixed-use developments.
4. What makes you suited for a Commercial Agent role? Discuss your negotiation skills, analytical thinking, relationship-building, and market knowledge. Use concrete examples.
5. Describe a time you closed a difficult deal. Use the STAR method. Highlight your strategy, communication, and how you overcame objections.
6. How do you stay up to date with property market trends? Mention trade publications, data sources like CoStar or EG Radius, networking events, and Savills Research.
7. How would you approach valuing a commercial property? Explain basic valuation methods: income, cost, and comparable sales. Show understanding of yields, rent rolls, and market comps.
8. How do you manage competing priorities? Talk about time-blocking, prioritizing high-impact tasks, and using tools like CRMs and project management software.
9. Describe your approach to client relationship management. Emphasize communication, follow-ups, transparency, and a consultative approach to problem-solving.
10. What are the biggest challenges facing commercial real estate today? Discuss market volatility, ESG compliance, hybrid working, and economic fluctuations.
11. How would you handle a difficult client? Stay calm, listen actively, acknowledge their concerns, and seek a win-win solution. Offer examples.
12. What are your career goals in property? Show ambition but realism. Express interest in growing within Savills and contributing long-term.
13. How do you generate new business leads? Mention networking, referrals, LinkedIn, cold calling, and attending industry events.
14. Tell us about a time you had to work collaboratively. Highlight teamwork, communication, and achieving shared goals.
15. What do you know about Savills’ culture and values? Research and mention integrity, collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.
16. What is your understanding of real estate legislation and compliance? Show awareness of RICS standards, anti-money laundering laws, and lease regulations.
17. Describe a successful marketing strategy you used. Talk about digital campaigns, property brochures, online portals, or open days.
18. How would you assess the viability of a new commercial development? Cover feasibility studies, market demand, location analysis, zoning laws, and financial forecasting.
19. How do you deal with rejection or failed deals? Stay positive, learn from the experience, and quickly pivot to new opportunities.
20. Do you have any questions for us? Ask insightful questions about the team structure, upcoming projects, or Savills’ growth strategy.
Final Interview Tips and Encouragement Interviewing for a role at a top firm like Savills is no small feat. Go in well-prepared, dress smartly, bring copies of your CV, and be punctual. Rehearse your answers, but stay flexible and authentic. Let your passion for property shine through.
Remember, the best interviews are two-way conversations. Take the time to assess if Savills is the right cultural and professional fit for you.
Good luck—you’ve got this!