From Austin Powers Homes to First-Time Buyer Tips: A conversation with Lewis Sutehall, Sales Director for Davies Property Partners.
What inspired you to pursue a career in property, and what do you love most about being an estate agent?
I’ve had a love for property from a young age and I often worked a little construction for a luxury home builder in the summer months. My interest for property really grew from this and I knew I just had to pursue a career in property!
Can you share the most memorable or unusual property you’ve ever sold? What made it stand out?
Wow... I’ve sold so many beautiful homes, some conventional and some rather different. One of my most memorable sales has to be an Austin Powers throwback property. It was built by the clients in the 1970’s and was truly incredible. A complete time warp, but in a great way. This house could have been a perfect movie set. From its bright orange kitchen to its wood panelled ceiling and cork walls. It really was one of my favourite homes. Better still, I sold it to a couple who just fell in love with it and have kept all those features.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about estate agents, and how do you address it in your work?
I think the biggest misconception is estate agents don’t care, or we are in it for ourselves. Now I can’t speak for everyone, but I believe we are often the most helpful and understanding. We deal with people from all different walks of life, from those buying their first homes or upsizing to more pressured sales and purchases. I always listen to our clients, or those looking to purchase, and give my time and advice where needed.
If you could describe your perfect day in the life of an estate agent, what would it look like from start to finish?
My work day will always start with a coffee. I simply can’t function without it! From there it has to be result driven. This comes in so many ways; giving the best advice to someone, negotiating a tricky situation with a positive outcome for all, or simply achieving a great sale. A great day for me is knowing that I’ve made a difference.
What’s one piece of advice you always give to first-time homebuyers that you wish someone had told you when you started in this profession?
Gather information from people you know and trust. The purchasing process can be very daunting for first time buyers. Which is very understandable when you are making one of the largest financial commitments and it's scary when you don’t know, or understand the process. And let’s be honest, the buying and selling of property in England is not always the most straightforward!
Have you ever had a ‘dream home’ moment with a client where everything just clicked? Tell us about it.
Many times, that’s what honestly makes this job so enjoyable. Buying property is often so exciting. Seeing that spark or smile in someone who has found their dream home is a wonderful feeling and knowing you are often at the centre of it makes it more rewarding.
If you weren’t an estate agent, what other career would you see yourself thriving in and why?
I’m almost certain I would be in landscape gardening. Still property-based, but gardening has become a bit of a hobby of mine. I love a trip to the garden centre and getting down and dirty in the mud.
What do you think sets your approach apart from other agents in the area? Any secret weapons you swear by?
It's always hard to compliment yourself, but I would say that I listen and take in what people are saying. I also pride myself on the knowledge and experience that I have gained over the years, overcoming countless challenges in so many different situations. I think that gives confidence to clients and buyers alike - they feel safe in the knowledge that I know my stuff.
Ready to find your next home or have questions about buying or selling? Get in touch with Lewis and the team for honest, knowledgable advice and support on your next move.
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Cobham
01932 588288 -
Claygate
01372 462323 -
Hinchley Wood
0208 3980265