It’s two years now since Connor McLauchlin joined the VMH team – here’s the lowdown on our Residential Property Valuer, from A to Z (via a bit of Q…)
Did you always want to become involved in the property industry?
“I never really wanted to work in an office – I always thought people who did were boring and I wanted to be cool. In school I was particularly good at maths, physics and computing and I wanted to go into some sort of remote tech job (think Q from James Bond) but studying wasn’t quite the route for me.”
What was your route into the role?
“I’d worked in retail from the age of 16 in various roles, trained in retail management and really enjoyed the customer service side of things, however after nine years I’d discovered the store I was working in was going to close and I needed to get my ‘big boy’ job. My mum also works within the industry and had suggested I apply for a couple of property related roles. I’d been a part time viewing agent a for a while and could easily pick up conversation with potential buyers and enjoyed sharing their excitement and enthusiasm for their new home. This made me think, if I can sell suits why couldn’t I go on and sell houses? I joined a smaller firm where I was able to learn all aspects buying and selling property (apart from the legals, I’ll leave that to the professionals), the role came up with VMH two years ago and here we are now.”
What makes a good property valuer?
“Understanding how to handle the situation and how you approach the sale. People sell property for lots of different reasons, often good but sometimes it’s more complicated. You must come away from that initial appointment with the potential client knowing they can trust you and the team to sell their biggest asset. Someone once told me there’s nothing wrong with taking the time to have a cuppa and just shooting the breeze with someone you know is going through a hard time.”
What are the best things and biggest challenges with the job?
“As far as the pros, you do see some amazing properties! I’ve been atop castle turrets, rooftop terraces with stunning views, houses with private beach access and a flat with access to the Edinburgh caves. You also get to meet some interesting characters along the way with varying stories.
“The cons include competing for business – I think this is difficult for everyone in a sales type role. Sometimes you can come away from a valuation appointment feeling like you’ve done everything right and you still don’t win the business.
Who or what inspires you?
“My parents and my family. We are all really close. I pop up to my parents every Sunday for dinner and catch up with what’s happened in their week. I wouldn’t be doing what I do without their support. I also have to say my fiancée, as she’s sitting next to me as I write this – she’s absolutely smashing it in her career and is currently carrying our little one (expected July 2025).”
What would you change about the way the property market operates in Scotland?
“I think there should be more to help first time buyers get on the market. I didn’t think I’d ever own my own home but being in the industry opened my eyes to some of the options that are out there. As house prices increase, I think there should be a review of Land Buildings Transaction Tax for first time buyers as well as a review of the Scottish Government backed LIFT scheme.”
What are your interests outside work?
“I love to cook and eat delicious food, catching up with friends and playing board games. I also enjoy switching off with my other half and checking out the latest film/tv releases – recommendations welcome!”