Meet our Regents Experts. With over 100 years combined experience, we look into some of the most memorable moments of their careers;
Craig Scott
Mortgage Director
What is your first memory of being a Mortgage Adviser?
I started in the Mortgage department of Nationwide Building Society in 1987. My very first mortgage was on a Victorian Detached House in central Scotland. It had severe dampness & a leaking roof, so had a retention. Very complicated case, I think it took weeks but it went through in the end. I sometimes pass the property now – it looks great to this day.
Your most embarrassing moment in the job?
The bank safe had a time lock, when closed it couldn’t be re-opened for 20 minutes (as a security measure). I was heading to an event, closed the safe door and got my tie trapped in it. I was stuck, the staff laughed, I had no choice but to take my tie off, but I didn’t want to go to the bank function without a tie on, so waited and ended up late.
Of all the house programmes on TV, which do you watch and what is your favourite?
A Place in the Sun. I have actually arranged finance for clients who bought a property when on the programme.
What makes a good Mortgage Adviser?
A good adviser needs to be honest, with the clients interests always being put first. I started out in the banks, so a good bank training is essential. It isn’t fair to start at a Mortgage Shop or Estate Agent and learn at the clients expense.
Gary Scott
Sales Director
What is your first memory of being a valuer?
A corporate company employed me. Training was “could you go to your first house yourself? I’ve bought you an inch tape.” Turns out my boss (and sometimes trainer) was having an affair and said to his wife he was training me that Monday evening!
Of all the houses you have seen and valued what is the one you would love to have bought?
I collected an American couple from Edinburgh airport and took them to the most delightful “boathouse” imaginable. Set in its own 12 acres, the property had its own lake! Well large pond. This is no exaggeration, you sailed under the property for access. The upper floor completed like a ship, it came with a rowing boat with a seagull engine.
PS The couple did not buy it. Mrs said, whilst lovely her husband worked abroad a great deal and she would not feel safe on her own in this floating palace (I added the floating palace bit). But shows you never get 20 out of 20 on your wants list.
PPS I would buy it now selling all I had and more to live in 12 acres and sail home. This home is in Scotland!
Your most embarrassing moment in the job?
Without doubt my continual wooden performances on a variety of TV programmes. I have another horror show coming up as I underperform on Homes Under the Hammer. I chat, inform and wax lyrically before they shout ‘action!’, then quiver to a monosyllabic wreck when that huge hairy microphone is within a foot of my orifice.
Of all the house programmes on TV, which do you watch and what is your favourite?
THEM ALL and I change my mind constantly. Amazing spaces, Grand design, Dream home makeover, A Place in the sun, Home Away indeed anywhere.
I also loved changing rooms with Carol Smillie. Same age as me, a Glaswegian and someone who knew part of the programmes appeal was the presenter.
What makes a good estate agent?
Someone who ignores the 37.5 hour a week nonsense. Actually its not nonsense just doesn’t apply to us! Job fantastic but long, long hours to serve your client. So your hobby is your job. You have to love people and property. I studied psychology at Glasgow University and love all forms of property; chalets, flats, estates, terraced, semi, detached, townhouses et al!
Clark Wilkinson
Business Consultant
What is your first memory of being a valuer?
Being offered alcoholic drinks by a potential lady seller in Glasgow. When I protested due to driving, she said I could stay overnight if I wanted *wink wink*
Of all the houses you have seen and valued what is the one you would love to have bought?
It was a stunning traditional boutique hotel in Kings Park, Stirling that Barbara Cartland used to stay at The owners built a magnificent house in the grounds with a kitchen installed that cost £68,000 (in the early nighties )…..home & business in one, go perfect.
Your most embarrassing moment in the job?
Sold a large repossession in Stirling at Christmas one year. We had got the water put back on for cleaners, I was meant to turn off once they had finished – I forgot, tank burst, water cascading down the sweeping staircase and out the doors (we got quoted £50,000 plus to repair – again early nighties) . I spent Christmas Day mopping out the water and nearly lost my job at the time.
Of all the house programmes on TV, which do you watch and what is your favourite?
Sadly I don’t like any of them – which makes me probably in the minority!
What makes a good estate agent?
Empathy is a must to deal properly with both sellers and buyers feelings. Commitment to your service and never let it drop, regardless of time of day or however your feeling and finally, honesty when dealing with all parties.
