The 2025 Negotiator Awards once again delivered a spectacular evening, celebrating the very best of the UK’s residential property industry. With the competition fiercer than ever and the most extensive entry list in the programme’s history, more than 800 guests gathered under the chandeliers of the iconic Grosvenor House on Park Lane for a night of well-deserved recognition.
Hosted by comedian Marcus Brigstocke, the ceremony showcased excellence across the sector — but for us at the RPSA, one moment rose above all others.
A Standing Ovation for a True Industry Champion
The final award of the night, newly sponsored by Zoopla, was the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. As the presenter began outlining the winner’s extraordinary career and influence — before the name was even revealed — the room instantly sensed who it must be.
I was sitting beside Marion Ellis, and within seconds we both looked at one another and said, almost in unison: “It can only be Kate Faulkner.”
And indeed, it was.
The room erupted. Kate received a full standing ovation — something I have rarely, if ever, seen at these events. It was an incredibly emotional and unforgettable moment, fully befitting someone who has dedicated herself so completely to improving the home-buying and selling experience for consumers.
Why Kate?
Kate Faulkner OBE is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading property experts. She is passionate about solving systemic problems in the residential market through collaboration between the media, industry, and government. Her contributions are extensive and influential:
Leading Industry Change: As Chair of the Home Buying and Selling Group (HBSG), she brings together government (DLUHC), industry leaders, and consumer organisations to drive long-overdue reform.
Supporting Standards: She co-founded and supports The Lettings Industry Council.
Educating Consumers: She created Propertychecklists, a groundbreaking free resource offering clear, accurate, practical guidance.
Author & Expert: She has written eleven property books, including four for Which?, such as Buy, Sell and Move House.
The RPSA’s First Honorary Lifetime Member
Kate has been a consistent and generous supporter of the RPSA for many years. She has spoken at our events (always refusing payment), highlighted our work on her platforms, and — most significantly — ensured surveyors have a voice at the heart of national debate through her leadership of the HBSG.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to the sector, the surveying profession, and to the RPSA itself, we were delighted to present Kate with a new honour on the night:
This was something already in development, but the moment could not have been more fitting. Kate was genuinely touched to receive the honour, and we could not be more thrilled to acknowledge her extraordinary support and leadership.
Few honours could be more deserved. Congratulations, Kate — we are honoured to call you a friend.
About Kate Faulkner OBE
Media Presence: Kate regularly features on BBC TV and radio, including You and Yours, Money Box, and Breakfast, as well as ITV’s This Morning.
Strategic Advice: She works strategically with lenders, brokers, insurers, agents, and surveyors to help companies better engage with consumers.
Independent Analysis: Her business provides accurate, independent research and commentary on property prices, rents, policy, and market trends.
Marion Ellis and Kate Faulkner - Marion has worked closely with Kate through the Home Buying and Selling Group, contributing an extraordinary amount of her time, insight and expertise behind the scenes. On behalf of the RPSA membership, I would like to acknowledge her dedication and offer our sincere thanks.
