There’s a new face ready to welcome you to the VMH offices in Sibbald Walk – meet Residential Property Valuer Joan McAuley.
Did you always want to become involved in the property profession?
“When I was a child I most likely wanted to be a figure skater or an artist/designer! I have had different careers down through the years including as an interior designer for seven years. These roles were all very client focused, so I had lots of transferable skills when I found my path into property and never looked back! As an interior designer, meeting people in their homes 
was something that felt very natural to me and I always enjoy giving clients advise on the best way to present their property.”
What was your route into your current role?
“Honestly, we were having our home valued, with the focus of moving to a bigger house in a better catchment area, I met with a property valuer and thought – I could do that job! So I did a Google search, found a valuer role advertised and the rest is history!”
What makes a good property professional?
“Working hard for your clients to get the best possible outcome while taking the time to understand their needs or requirements and then working out the best strategy and timeframe. I always give clients advice as if I were in their shoes or if they were my family member. Empathy is also an important part of the job.”
What are the best things – and the biggest challenges about your job?
“I love that every property is different – as are each client and their needs – so this is a job that never gets boring or tedious. It is always interesting looking at market trends, finding patterns and new developments that effect sales or outcomes.
“It can be challenging at times as it is a competitive market, and there are sometimes issues to navigate, however, we never shy away from a challenge!”
Who or what inspires you?
“I am lucky to be around lots of inspiring individuals, daily. If I was to choose one though, it would be Diana Nyad, who was the first person to swim open water from Cuba to Florida – if you haven’t seen the film, I highly recommend you do!”
If you could change one thing about the way the property market operates in Scotland, what would it be?
“I would change the property taxes so that they are in line with the rest of the UK.”
What are your interests or hobbies outside work?
“I am a keen swimmer and runner. I especially love an early morning open water swim with a sunrise as an added bonus! Otherwise, we enjoy meeting up with family and friends, cooking, travelling and always searching for something new or exciting!”