JHI Properties
What are your top three secrets to success?
1. Response time and comprehensive understanding of the economy and its impact on investment property. 2. Communication with key decision makers and ‘gatekeepers’ to understand needs and obtain inside information. 3. Up-to-date knowledge.
And, being able to pick up the phone at any time to anyone in the industry without fear or favour.
What is the one thing you wish someone had taught you or told you when you first started out in property and why?
Keeping good records; the rest is just hard work, a lot of travelling, instinct and common sense. One can only keep a certain amount
of information in one’s head, so you need to be able to access detailed information in a communicable format.
What is the most vital business tool that estate agents should have at their disposal in today’s market and why?
Constant supply of usable information.
Do you remember the first property you sold? Please tell us about it.
When I told my dentist that I was in property, he said that he needed new premises in Saxonwold, so I approached several homes in the areas required and within hours had done the deal.
What advice would you give to new kids on the block about making a success of their career in property?
Gain hands-on experience in income-producing investment property, whether in administration and working with rent rolls, collecting rentals, negotiating and setting up leases or facilities management with the purpose of understanding what investment in property is all about. With this understanding, there are many routes to follow, whether in property development, asset management, financial planning, consulting and broking and ultimately property ownership.
