Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.

Personality Traits Linked to Success in Estate Agency, Study Finds

A new report highlights that personality, rather than experience, may be a key factor in determining success in estate agency. Research by business growth consultancy Growth Animals suggests that the industry attracts highly extroverted, relationship-driven individuals who thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.

Growth Animals, working with personality author David Hodgson and drawing inspiration from Carl Jung, developed an animal-based personality framework to analyse traits common among estate agents. According to their findings, many successful agents share characteristics associated with the “Panther” personality type—described as confident, persuasive, and adept at building relationships and negotiating deals.

Chris Thornhill, founder of Growth Animals, stated that a combination of people skills, resilience, and decisiveness makes this personality type particularly well suited to estate agency. The research indicates that the industry’s mix of sales, negotiation, and client management naturally attracts those who enjoy working with others and making quick decisions.

However, the study also notes that these same personalities may find the administrative aspects of the job less appealing. As a result, strong processes and support systems are considered essential for long-term success in the sector.

Growth Animals suggests that understanding personality types can help agency owners with recruitment, development, and staff retention by aligning individuals with roles that suit their natural strengths. The research also points out that while “Panther” types often build strong local reputations, a variety of temperaments—including more steady, relationship-focused types—can benefit estate agency teams.

This insight may be particularly relevant for UK letting agents and inventory clerks, as it highlights the importance of matching roles to personality strengths and ensuring adequate support for administrative tasks.