Meet Catherine Caines
Catherine is a Chartered Surveyor and member of the National Association of Estate Agents. Her Father John first set-up in 1978 but it was May 2006 before Catherine returned home from London to join the family business. She tells us all about life as a Director of Payton Jewell Caines and Mum to four year old Jack.
Has property always been your thing?
Absolutely. In fact, some of my earliest childhood memories are of Dad talking about the property market and of course, I spent lots of time in our offices when I was growing up. It’s been a way of life for as long as I can remember which is why I chose to do my Masters at Reading University in Estate Management. I qualified as a Chartered Surveyor in 1999.
Tell us about your early career
I was very fortunate to join the Knight Frank team in London. I spent eight years working in the commercial market before I moved to Bristol to work in the West Country office market. It wasn’t until 2006 that I took the decision to move back home and join Dad in the family business.
How has the move from commercial to residential been?
I love all aspects of property sales and management but selling residential homes is so rewarding. I never tire of advising our vendors on how best to sell their properties and helping our buyers to find their dream homes. Estate agency is a very personal business, which is why we work so hard to help our clients and answer their questions. We are always at the end of the phone or on email.
What advice do you give homeowners looking to sell?
It is so important to take a step back and look at your home through the eyes of a purchaser. First impressions are critical. Neutralise and de-clutter where needed. You need your property to appeal to as many buyers as possible so presentation counts.
And what help can you give first time buyers?
Do your best to enjoy the experience! This is an exciting time for you. Ask lots of questions, even if they seem silly and take all of the help that you can get. You should be very proud of making your first step on to the property ladder.
What makes you proud about Payton Jewell Caines?
Dad and I are both very proud of our fantastic team. We are all absolutely focused on giving the very best customer service and invest the time that is needed to get the results that our vendors, landlords and buyers are looking for. We genuinely care about each and every property.
What makes people choose Payton Jewell Caines?
There is so much choice in our market. High street agents and online agents are competing for business. What sets us apart is our knowledge and expertise. We are here every step of the way and clients often tell us that we are worth every penny that we charge. That’s good to hear!
What’s life like outside of work?
The nature of our business means that there is little time outside of work but I do love spending time with my husband Mark and our 4 year old son Jack. Trips to Diggerland are a regular thing! I also try to find time to keep fit; I enjoy running and walking on the beach with my family and beagle Jasper. I love live music. Fleetwood Mac are my all time favourite band!
By PJC Homes on February 6th, 2018