Ehab Barrain runs Barrain Property Advisors are east london estate agents, a real estate agency serving Canary Wharf and nearby areas. He emphasises the importance of delivering great service, being prepared for any situation, and using technology to make processes smoother and transactions faster.
Table of Contents
1. Early Years and Passion for Real Estate at Barrain Property Advisors
In 2016, at 24, I started my real estate career with Foxtons. Right from the start, I was impressed by their excellent training program and the chance to learn from experienced professionals. I quickly fell in love with being an estate agent, enjoying the dynamic nature of the job—always out and about, meeting new people, and never tied to a desk.
I’m passionate about property and find it fascinating to see how different people decorate their homes. This career lets me explore various homes and meet a wide range of clients. These experiences have shaped my approach to business, and I strive to bring the same passion, dedication, and curiosity to Barrain Property Advisors.
One memorable moment was the first warehouse conversion I saw—a huge, three-bedroom duplex in Canary Wharf, over 3,000 square feet. I had no idea what a warehouse conversion was until my manager handed me the keys and told me to check it out. The apartment amazed me, and that day became one of my fondest early memories as an estate agent. It taught me the value of being open to new opportunities and learning from every experience, no matter how unfamiliar or challenging.
I’ve always enjoyed discovering the interiors of different properties and meeting new people daily. Being an estate agent can be very rewarding, especially since it’s commission-based. If you do it right, it can be quite profitable, offering a chance to make a good living.
2. Challenges and Growth
Working in a busy sales environment comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the toughest was handling viewings that required quick mobility and communication with colleagues. Imagine heading out to show a property, only to find that someone else has the keys you need. Tracking down those keys while staying professional in front of clients was a skill that took time to master. The unpredictability of the market also made planning and strategizing difficult.
Another challenge was managing a high volume of listings. This often meant relying on colleagues to share the workload. When helping clients find a suitable home, you also take on an advisory role, understanding their needs and making appropriate recommendations.
A key lesson I learned early on was the importance of integrity in real estate. Estate agents often have a poor reputation, but I was determined to change that perception. I invested in my clients, emphasizing honesty and openness. People were more comfortable doing business with me when they knew they could trust me.
Thinking outside the box is crucial for an estate agent. For instance, last month we had a tenant whose current tenancy ended on April 17th, but their new home wouldn’t be available until May 1st. We managed to find a short-let flat not listed on the lettings market by negotiating with a vendor. This temporary solution kept both the tenant and the vendor happy.
3. Entrepreneurial Vision
From the start, we were encouraged to approach our roles as if we were running our own business. Managing applicants, potential buyers, and tenants, along with scheduling and property access, was akin to having our own company. This mindset eventually inspired me to start my own business, Barrain Property Advisors.
Honesty in this field is highly valued and rewarding. People are sensitive about their investments, and being transparent builds trust. At Barrain Property Advisors, we strive to be straightforward in all our dealings, emphasizing the importance of giving clients the right advice over simply closing deals for commission.
Also read: Tips To Keep In Mind When Renting A Property In London
4. Building a Reputation of Integrity
Starting Barrain Property Advisors has been my biggest accomplishment. We’ve been trading for nearly three years and have built a reputation for excellent service and in-depth market knowledge.
Our commitment to putting clients first, being transparent, and delivering on promises sets us apart. Reading positive reviews on Trustpilot and Google, where clients highlight our responsiveness, professionalism, and genuineness, is incredibly satisfying.
A mentor once told me that if you focus on delivering quality service, success and financial returns will follow. This principle has guided my career and is shared by many of my mentors. Focusing on service rather than just financial gain has helped us stand out in an industry often perceived as pushy and sales-driven.
5. Adapting to Industry Shifts
The real estate market has faced significant changes due to Brexit, COVID, and geopolitical events. Brexit altered overseas investors’ perceptions of the UK, while COVID changed tenants’ needs, such as a preference for extra space for working from home.
Technology has also transformed our industry, from marketing properties online to allowing clients to track their property listings through a portal.
Despite these technological advancements, the human element remains essential in real estate. We combine the latest technology with a personal touch, ensuring our clients receive the best possible service.
6. Legacy of Trust and Service
Seeing the smile on a new tenant or buyer’s face when handing over keys is priceless. It’s a constant reminder that we’re doing the right thing. Our reviews inspire me and make me proud of the impact we’re making.
I want to be remembered as a trustworthy agent who believes in delivering excellent service with integrity, transparency, and honesty. This passion drives our company’s legacy, ensuring we continue in the right direction and leave a positive impact.
