With nearly three decades in Talent Attraction, Recruitment and HR across the property sector, Catherine Darbon, Head of Talent and Employer Brand at Douglas & Gordon, has seen both the industry and the role of an estate agent evolve. We sat down with Catherine to explore what it means to be an agent in today’s market and how D&G’s Partner Model is redefining success across London and beyond.

Why are more agents embracing self-employment and the Partner Model?

“Over the last three decades, the role of an estate agent has changed. It used to be a transactional function, list a property, negotiate a price, close the deal. Today, that’s no longer enough. The role is far more sophisticated.

Modern agents are strategic advisors, market analysts, skilled negotiators, social media experts and trusted confidants. Clients expect data-driven insights and digital expertise, but they also value empathy and genuine human connection. The agents who truly stand out combine emotional intelligence with integrity, guiding people through life-changing decisions with transparency, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to exceptional service.

Success for agents now goes far beyond financial metrics. It’s about autonomy, purpose and impact. Agents want flexibility, the freedom to build their own brand and the ability to create a business that reflects their values. Many are looking for a model that allows them to take ownership of client relationships, make strategic decisions and grow without the constraints of rigid structures.

That’s exactly what the self-employed model offers. It gives experienced agents the freedom to shape their own business, develop their personal brand and work in a way that suits their lifestyle.

At D&G, we offer a platform that empowers our partners to thrive on their own terms while maintaining professionalism and credibility. We trust our partners to manage their time and clients without set hours or micromanagement. Success looks different for everyone and we celebrate that.

The industry has matured. Agents want to be recognised as professionals, not just employees.”

What makes the D&G Partner Model different?

“The D&G Partner Model is a true hybrid that combines the freedom of self-employment with the strength and support of a respected brand. Our model is not subscription-based, partners aren’t paying for access to a platform or a set of tools. They are entering a genuine partnership built on shared ambition, aligned values and long-term success.

What truly sets D&G apart is the depth of support behind our Partner Model, cutting-edge technology, full CRM access, expert marketing, trusted external partnerships, initial training and ongoing operational guidance, all underpinned by a culture of excellence.

Unlike models that simply offer independence, D&G offers a partnership designed to make our partners’ work more efficient and impactful. It’s a forward-looking environment where innovation and personal connection work hand in hand, and a collaborative setting where agents lead their own businesses while benefiting from shared resources, collective strength and meaningful support at every stage.”

What sets D&G Partners apart?

“Our partners are experienced, principled and commercially astute. They combine deep market knowledge with emotional intelligence, and are highly responsive, understanding that buying or selling a home is one of the most personal decisions anyone can make.

They’re agents who have built reputations over years, often decades, and continue to earn trust through consistency, transparency and results.

What sets them apart is their drive to grow on their own terms. They’re ambitious, self-motivated and entrepreneurial, yet deeply collaborative. That blend of independence and shared purpose makes our network so strong.”

How does D&G support independence while providing structure?

“D&G provides a robust framework that allows partners to focus on what they do best: serving clients and growing their business. From brand marketing and lead generation to compliance and operational support, we handle the essentials so partners can concentrate on performance and relationships.

That structure is supported by access to shared resources, including our London hub, a fully resourced office environment available when it suits them. There’s no expectation to be in the office day to day, but it’s a space designed to support collaboration, connection and momentum. It’s genuinely great to see how often partners choose to use it, catching up, sharing insight and working together.

Our model is completely transparent. Partners know exactly what they earn and why. It’s a system built on fairness and reward, not hierarchy. Support is offered without micromanagement. Partners retain full control over their schedules, strategies and client engagement. We see ourselves as enablers of success, not gatekeepers.”

What’s the biggest misconception about working for yourself in property?

“The biggest misconception is that self-employment means isolation or instability. When structured well, as it is at D&G, it offers greater control, deeper satisfaction and often stronger results.

Another misconception is that if an individual is working for themselves, they may lack professionalism or rigour. In reality, our partners operate with even higher standards because they are personally invested in every outcome. With the right support, self-employment in property can be one of the most rewarding and sustainable career paths available.”

How does D&G maintain culture, inclusivity and connection across a self-employed model?

“Culture is about connection, not contracts. At D&G, our culture is built around integrity, excellence and collaboration. Even within a self-employed model, we actively create moments that bring people together through regular engagement, shared standards and genuine peer support.

That sense of community is reinforced through shared experiences. We host multiple incentive trips annually, from European city breaks to our ski trip, alongside a full calendar of social events and activities. These experiences encourage connection, strengthen networks and build relationships beyond day-to-day business.

Our partners may run their own businesses, but they are part of a collective of professionals with aligned values and ambitions. We’re also proud of the diversity within our Partner community. There isn’t one mould for success at D&G. Authenticity and individuality are strengths here and that openness makes our culture both inclusive and modern.”

What does the future look like for the industry and D&G’s Partner community?

“What excites me most is the growing momentum behind redefining estate agency as a respected, professional career. We’re seeing a new generation of agents who are highly skilled, emotionally intelligent and business-savvy. They’re reshaping perceptions of what it means to work in property.

At D&G, our partner community is leading that evolution, building personal brands, delivering exceptional service and proving that estate agency can be fulfilling, credible and aspirational. The future is about empowerment, professionalism and purpose, and our model is perfectly positioned to support that journey.”

Real people. Real results. Real independence.
Douglas & Gordon’s Partner Model is designed for agents who want to grow their own business with the backing of a trusted London brand.

Ready to take control of your career, on your terms? Request more information on how to become a D&G Partner today.