Q&A with Stephanie Boulez-Brown

What’s your role at Go View London?  

Although my official title is Sales Valuer, I would say that I have a multi-faceted role at Go View, and I very much enjoy this. I am primarily based in the Acton office; however, I interact daily with our Ealing branch and have weekly meetings there. Over the last year, my main focus has been increasing our presence, mostly in Acton but other parts of Ealing, by carrying out market valuations, adding new listings to our already large portfolio and ensuring clients experience great service.  In addition, I respond to viewing enquiries, negotiate and qualify offers, be on hand to help buyer and vendor enquiries, and help and assist other team members when requested to do so.   

What was your career before Go View London?

My initial career, which spanned over 10 years, was in Investment Banking, where I dealt with Fixed-Income products. I then started working for an established French relocation agent. I also worked in recruitment, a management role in international business consultancy, and lettings for another independent estate agency before working as an international sales manager for a jewellery company.   As you can see, I have had many roles since I have been established in London, but they shared many similarities in terms of skills!   

What brought you to Go View London and the world of estate agency?

As mentioned above, I had some experience with the estate agency world prior to Go View. In fact, one of my roles brought me into contact with them many years ago when I was a relocation consultant.  I always liked the company's ethos, and it seemed like a company that I would enjoy working for with great prospects, so when I heard they were recruiting, I got in touch. The convenience was another factor, as I live locally.  

What do you like about your role and working in estate agency?

The things I most enjoy are meeting and interacting with people, having a chance to talk about markets (which is what I used to do in Banking) and, of course, seeing transactions through.  Every day is different, and there are some challenges, but this is what makes this industry so interesting and rewarding.   

What is the most memorable sale you have been involved in? The most memorable sale was a large home on Montague Gardens, West Acton.  It was such a stunning property, but for whatever reason it had not sold previously with a large corporate and we were appointed to take over.   I learnt a lot as it was very complex and involved many parties, one of whom was based overseas, and we were delighted to bring the sale in close to the asking price.  

What advice would you give someone buying their first home?

First of all, welcome on board!  This is going to be a journey with ups and probably some downs.  One thing to bear in mind, though, is whatever your requirements and idea of what your purchase may be, your first home is not your forever home. In securing your first home, I would try to be open to compromises (within reason): if it is not quite as big as you had wished, or not quite in the area you had hoped, bear in mind you will be selling it one day and your next move will be of greater significance. 

What advice would you give someone moving to a larger property?  My advice would be, if possible, to live in your new property and get a feel for it over a few months before deciding on any big changes.  For example, maybe your initial idea to knock through a wall might not be something you would have done, should you have waited longer.  Also, in some cases, the amount of work and costs associated with the changes may seem overwhelming.  Hopefully you can plan for it in stages, provided it’s in liveable condition, don’t look to rush into it.    

What do you like to do away from work? 

I am a keen tennis player. I play socially and competitively. I also volunteer at my tennis club, Ealing Lawn Tennis Club. I have three daughters and love spending time and doing some shopping with them.  We also exercise a lot together as a family. I also enjoy my social life and always try to make some time for my friends.  

Anywhere locally you would consider a ‘hidden gem’ worth checking out?

The Swan gastropub is located on Evershed Walk (off Acton Lane). The food is truly amazing. It is a fantastic place to eat during the winter months as it feels so cosy, and you can enjoy the great outdoor dining area during the warmer months.