Summer Scheme Student Review

I was based in the Operational Capital Markets team and my role included various site visits around London, preparing draft valuation reports for new residential developments, researching comparable property transactions for our subject properties and liaising with estate agents. Most of my work involved carrying out lots of research online and through estate agents about the surrounding areas of our subject properties. This included researching transport links, nearby amenities, recently sold/leased properties and etc.

I have learnt and developed numerous skills across the 4 weeks that I have been at Savills. Firstly, I developed my confidence and assertiveness through contacting numerous estate agents and asking for detailed information regarding recent property sales/leases. My team working skills were also further improved as the nature of my work involved talking to and updating my team regarding the progress of our projects constantly. A new skill that I learnt was how to effectively and quickly research property sales online and how to refine the large amount of data down to the necessary information required.

I was given a good amount of responsibility throughout my placement. For example, when drafting valuation reports for our clients I was given the full responsibility to research comparable transactions, attach photos, describe the location of the property and describe the amenities as well as the pros/cons of each property. My contributions were then reviewed by a senior team member and in the final report my contributions were always present. Also, on site visits I was either delegated the responsibility of taking photo's or taking notes whilst we were shown around a property.

I was given lots of support and guidance, especially in the first week as I was new to the team. I was taught how to do all the tasks that I would be completing throughout the placement. My team was very supportive and answered every question I had throughout the placement without any judgement no matter how small or complex my question was. Even when I made a mistake, I was given the proper guidance to help me correct that mistake rather than my team fixing it for me.

Overall the company culture was positive and vibrant. I did not feel as if there was an immense amount of pressure within the office nor my team no matter how much work we had to complete in the week. My team especially was very inviting and inclusive, for example I was invited to many social events after the work day where I got to understand and learn more about each member of my team. Of course, there is an expectation to complete your work on time and in a good manner and the environment helps to achieve this rather than force it.

Overall, I can confidently say that I have thoroughly enjoyed the internship at Savills. Some of the highlights were the numerous site visits and organised events. Within these events I had the opportunity to meet many peers and directors within the business. Also, the work that I completed throughout the internship gave my a real insight to the real estate industry which I believe is very valuable and will help to inform my future career plans.

Yes

When applying to Savills, be honest, be yourself and make sure to be knowledgeable about real estate industry and any current trends/upcoming obstacles. On the assessment day be confident, ask as many questions as you can and talk to your fellow peers and directors as much as possible. During your placement make sure to get as involved as much as possible and definitely reach out to other teams that you may be interested in to learn more about the company and industry as a whole.