Real Estate Gaynor Barrett, Linley & Simpson
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Name: Gaynor Barrett
Job title: Branch Manager, Linley & Simpson
What does your job involve on a day-to-day basis?
I manage the city centre branch and it’s a very busy office, so the ability to multi-task and work in a fast paced environment helps. No two days are the same, which is why I love the job so much. I carry out appraisals, viewings, check-outs and help out the team as and when it’s required. Liaising with landlords and tenants, checking references… the list is endless.
Have you always worked in the property industry?
No, my background is in the fashion industry, and I was a retail manager in London for most of it. I left the stresses of London life to travel the world for a few years and then settled in Leeds in 2002. I have a love for design and architecture, and moved across to property in 2003 and haven’t looked back.
Have you been busy since the turn of this year?
Yes we’ve been really busy, so busy we’ve had to recruit extra staff and extend our opening hours to accommodate the demand. We’re pleasantly surprised how things have picked up so far this year - we are hitting a record number of lets monthly for this branch, which is really promising. We also have the largest portfolio of available properties in the city, so we have the best selection of properties for everyone searching for their new homes.
What types of properties are most in demand right now?
The usual two-bedroom with parking is always in demand, as is any property with character features. We have just taken on two floors of apartments in Candle House, the new release at Granary Wharf - they are very popular and going like hot cakes!
From a personal point of view, what are your favourite parts of the city?
I love the architecture of all the old buildings in Leeds, St Pauls House on Park Square being my favourite. As I’ve lived in lots of different cities, I really appreciate the waterside developments we have, it’s a great place to unwind at the end of a busy day. I also love the shops and bars… in fact I love Leeds in general!
How can Leeds be improved?
I would like to see more green spaces in the city and would love to see more thought going into the architecture of any new developments. I also think the city could do with a big sports centre like Sheffield.
How do you think Leeds will look in five years’ time?
I don’t think it will have changed as much as it has in the past five years. I expect the city will spread its boundaries further afield. Hopefully we should have the Trinity shopping centre and the arena, which is all very exciting.
Linley & Simpson, 16 Swinegate, LS1 4AG, 0113 246 9295, city@linleyandsimpson.co.uk
Posted on Wednesday 3rd March 2010
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