James Callaghan, a property investment and management student at Ulster University is completing his year-long placement with GOC Estate Agents.
We ask him a few questions about his time with us so far.
What does your day involve? My daily activity is never the same. My daily activities could include sales and rental viewings, valuations, dealing with new and old clients, managing rental properties, liaising with landlords and tenants and monitoring the progress of sales I’m involved in.
What do you love about GOC? Every day is different and the people I get to meet with this job.
What did you expect when you were starting with GOC? Starting in GOC I thought it was going to be all sales related but now I see how much of a role rentals play in running of a busy estate agency.
What’s the #1 thing you’ve learnt during your placement? Organization is the most important thing I’ve learnt in GOC. In this job there’s so much going on and remembering everything is impossible, notes and forward planning plays such important part in my job.
Did you adjust well to working office hours? The office hours are 0830 to 1800. I find it difficult to switch off after these times, through my own fault, as I’m constantly checking and replying to emails.
What made you choose GOC for your placement? I’m originally from Limavady and GOC was highly recommended to me by a relative who works in estate agency in Coleraine.
Tell us something exciting about GOC that we wouldn’t know? GOC is a really close team and I’ve built some really amazing friendships during my time working here. There’s a great social aspect at GOC even down to simple things like being treated to a coffee every Friday. The team have really welcomed me into the business and they’re a friendly bunch to get along with which has made my year a fantastic learning experience.
Best piece of advice you would give to someone starting a placement year? Go in with an open mind and don’t be scared to get stuck in. Always leave notes in your diary if you need to chase something up on a certain day.
