Affordable Ways to Become a Residential Surveyor.
If you’re looking for a career change or a fresh start, becoming a residential surveyor can be a rewarding path, both professionally and financially. However, like many careers, the cost of training and qualifications can seem like a major barrier. The good news? You don’t need the student debt associated with a university degree to get started.
In this blog, we’ll explore affordable ways to become a residential property surveyor, from practical qualifications like the Sava Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation, to cost-saving tips and potential employer support. Whether you’re working full-time, raising a family, or simply watching your budget, there are still accessible options to help you gain residential surveyor qualifications and enter the profession.
How to Become a Residential Surveyor Without a Degree
Skip the University Degree
Traditionally, many surveyors have taken the university route, studying for a RICS-accredited degree in surveying or another property-related field. While this is a valid path, it can cost upwards of £27,000 in tuition fees alone – not including living expenses.
If you’re looking to avoid student debt and streamline your entry into the profession, there are more affordable and flexible alternatives.
Choose a Vocational Route: The Sava Diploma
A popular alternative to university is the Sava Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation. This Level 6 diploma is designed specifically for people looking to become residential surveyors without needing a traditional academic background. The course trains learners from the ground up and, unlike a university degree, is focused solely on residential property.
Why choose Sava?
- No degree required
You don’t need A-levels or a university education to apply – just a willingness to learn, an interest in property and a bit of self-motivation. - Part-time learning
The course is delivered through a blend of face-to-face sessions, virtual classrooms and online learning, with approximately two contact days per month, so you can study while working or managing other responsibilities. - RICS pathway
Sava surveying graduates can benefit from direct entry into the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) at Associate Level, a well-recognised professional designation. - Affordable compared to university
While it still requires an investment (£16,450 in total), the Sava diploma is significantly more cost-effective than a degree, leads to professional memberships and enables you to begin practising straightaway in as little as two years – whether through a firm, a housing provider or independently.
How to Make It More Affordable
1. Spread the Cost with Payment Plans
Sava has a number of payment options available from upfront payment, split payment across two instalments or even a Pay As You Learn option enabling you to pay your course fee monthly, making it much more manageable.
2. Look for Employer Sponsorship
If you’re already working in property, construction or a related industry, it’s worth speaking to your employer. Many companies are open to sponsoring staff through qualifications if they see long-term value.
Even if you’re not yet in the field, some employers are willing to support trainees, especially if you show initiative and commitment. Don’t be afraid to ask – especially at small firms that may want to grow their in-house talent.
Tips for approaching employers:
- Highlight how the residential surveyor qualification will benefit them (for example, new services, fewer outsourced surveys).
- Explain how part-time study enables you to work while learning.
- Ask about professional development budgets.
3. Check for Grants and Funding
Whilst the Sava diploma isn’t eligible for student loans or most government grants, funding could be available through the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) for employers who currently pay into the levy or individual employees of companies who pay into the levy. It may also be possible to find local grants in your area.
Becoming a residential surveyor doesn’t have to break the bank. By taking a vocational route like the Sava Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation, seeking employer support, and making use of the available payment plans, you can start your journey without the burden of university debt.
With dedication, smart choices, and a bit of planning, you can build a rewarding career in surveying – and expect a great return on your investment.
“I knew I’d be on a good salary after qualifying. I paid for the course on finance over a few months and by the time I’d paid it off, I’d made my money back and some within the first year.”
~ Callum Walker, Sava graduate and Owner of WR Surveying
Interested in becoming a residential surveyor the affordable way?
Start by exploring the Sava diploma and reaching out to Sava’s expert course advisors to get your questions answered. Your surveying career could be closer than you think.
Email hello@sava.co.uk or call the team on 01908 442158 for details.