Estate agency jobs have never seemed more glamorous since the release of Netflix series Selling Sunset.
Today estate agent Jacquie Sandison reveals the true nature of her job as part of National Work Life Week.
When you were younger what did you want to be when growing up and why?
I wanted to work for a newspaper from a very young age. At 13 I wrote to every national newspaper telling them that I wanted to know how the ads appeared in the paper. By 21, I achieved my dream, moved to London and got a job with a national title working on Fleet Street.
Why did you get involved in the job you are in now?
An estate agent came to my home to give me a valuation and told me to show him round my house. He said I’d make a great estate agent. Two weeks later I was on a course, left my job and started working for an estate agency local to me. I love it and haven’t looked back since.
Who is your role model and why?
My Mum, Margaret. She is wise, witty and always there for me with some sound advice.
How do you maintain a health work / life balance?
That’s a really tough question. I enjoy swimming and really missed it during lockdown. I am lucky to have an allotment and love seeing the fruits (and veg) of my labours each season.
What has been the highlight of your career?
Every time I sell a client’s home and help them on the next step of their property journey, that’s a good feeling.
What is your favourite post work meal?
Prawn chilli linguine, easy and quick.
If you were to give one piece of advice to someone starting out in the industry, what would it be?
Be yourself, we are in a people business after all.
What motto do you live by?
Work hard, be kind….and good things will happen.
When discussing your job with other people, what question do you get asked the most?
I always get asked, ‘how much is my house worth?’
What would you do if you won the lottery?
I’d like to travel a bit more – Iceland is next on my list. I’d also buy a new house with a garden and a greenhouse.