Behind the Scenes: Louise Verrall

Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where did you grow up? Whereabouts do you live now?

I grew up in Henley-on-Thames, and then went to Edinburgh University. I am currently living near Earls Court off Old Brompton Road.

How long have you been an estate agent for?

I’ve been an estate agent for 7 years.

How long have you worked for D&G? What’s the greatest thing about working for them?

I have worked at D&G for 3 and a half years - it seems like a lot of people give the same response when asked this question, but the people and the ethic of the company really is amazing. Sorry to sound repetitive, but it’s true!

What’s the funniest story you have from your time at Douglas & Gordon?

It is usually the day to day small things that occur between the team in our office that tickle me the most… the small things.

When you’re not in the office or showing people around, what do you do in your spare time? Any interesting hobbies we should know about?

I have a weak spot for the sun and sea, knocking a ball around on the tennis court or going home to see my family and Labrador, Diesel. I also love going out to one of my favourite restaurants and having a long supper with a bottle of wine.

What questions do you most commonly get asked by clients/customers?

“Can we reduce our fee?’” and ‘”Why do we charge renewals fees when we don’t do anything for it?” (Which is not true.)

What advice do you have for people looking to buy or rent in Pimlico & Westminster?

I would say never judge Pimlico on a quick first impression. Find time to walk around the area and soon you will realise that it is a quiet little pocket of charming residential flats a short walk from Sloane Square, Buckingham Palace Gardens, Belgravia, Green Park, Westminster Abbey and many other wonderful locations.

What do you love about Pimlico & Westminster? What are your favourite hangouts? Where do you grab your coffee in the morning, or take a business lunch?

Pimlico and Westminster (including Victoria) is constantly under development at the moment. We have just had a Curzon Cinema open on Victoria Street and a Wong has recently opened on Wilton Road which offers delicious Dim Sum - it isn’t cheap though, so only go there for a treat!

What would you say to anyone looking to move into the area?

If you take some time to look around, you’ll discover you don’t have to pay the Chelsea and Belgravia prices but you’re just a 10-15 minute walk away. It is constantly developing and growing with large high street brands opening up on Victoria Street, plus the transport links are excellent.

If you could wave a magic wand and change one thing about the property market, what would it be?

That every flat was managed by D&G so that the tenants received a professional service and we were in control of any work needed so we could oversee that it was all done prior to a new tenancy commencing!