In the last of our Q&A columns with Carter Jonas for 2023 we ask Belinda Holmes-Smith, of its residential team, what’s happening in her sector and what she loves about working and living in Cambridgeshire.
How did you get into your industry?
I was working as a chalet host in Switzerland and on my return the owner of the property offered me a job at his estate agency in central London. It was a radical change from cooking to selling houses, but I welcomed the challenge and have never looked back!
What does your job entail?
Initially, I visit homes both in the city and the surrounding villages providing owners with a market appraisal on their property. Once instructed we market and promote the houses in the best and most professional way, working with a network from across our business to achieve a sale.
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What do you like most about it?
I enjoy interacting with people and putting together marketing materials to really show properties at their best. The sale and purchase of a home is often the start of an exciting new chapter for sellers and buyers, tied up with so many hopes and dreams, and I take great joy in playing a role in this process.
What are the main challenges?
Managing expectations and overcoming obstacles. The conveyancing procedure in England opens itself up to problems along the way, sometimes right up until the point of exchange.
What recent developments in your business are you most excited about?
We recently welcomed a new head of department. It’s fun to be working with someone with different experiences and new ideas. We’re all learning from each other and working on growing our business.
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What impact does the festive season have on the property market?
If people are viewing properties over Christmas, it generally means they are motivated and serious buyers, so it can be a productive time to sell a home. Traditionally, however, vendors try and avoid viewings when they have family visiting and decorations up.
In relation to the above, what advice would you give potential buyers/sellers?
Sellers should expect a slight downturn in activity but prepare for a busy January! Boxing Day is notoriously busy on Rightmove. The season provides a time to reflect on goals and ambitions for the year ahead. ‘New Year, new you’ becomes a mantra for many, and for some, a new place to live is one of the first requirements!
What are you most proud of in your career?
Recommendations and endorsements from previous clients mean such a lot.
What advice would you give someone starting a career in your line of work?
Work in a business that invests in your training and development.
What couldn’t you get through your working week without?
My lovely colleagues.
What is your favourite local café or restaurant?
I always recommend Trinity on Trinity Street. The food is consistently good, and the location is great; it is in the centre of the city in a quintessentially Cambridge street, surrounded by lovely and impressive university buildings. The ambience is cosy, and the staff are very welcoming.
Your favourite song and why do you like it?
My favourite song, being a bit of an oldie myself, is Fly Me to The Moon by Frank Sinatra. It reminds me of my late father and makes me smile. I want to break into song every time I hear it, whether I am in the car or at a party. It is also quite short, so easy to remember all the words. Also, I had it at my wedding – I love it!
Visit carterjonas.co.uk.
About Carter Jonas
Established in 1855, Carter Jonas is one of the biggest and most respected UK property partnerships. With 34 offices across England and Wales, its Cambridge hub is one of its principal locations. Its team advises and supports clients across residential sales and lettings, new homes, planning, development, commercial, property management, building consultancy, infrastructure, energy and as well as on rural matters, including estate management, sales and natural capital.
Established in 1855, Carter Jonas is one of the biggest and most respected UK property partnerships. With 34 offices across England and Wales, its Cambridge hub is one of its principal locations. Its team advises and supports clients across residential sales and lettings, new homes, planning, development, commercial, property management, building consultancy, infrastructure, energy and as well as on rural matters, including estate management, sales and natural capital.
