Lunchtime Learning

New Podcast Episode: From Homeless to Letting Agent — Maxine's Journey in the York Lettings Industry

Maxine, founder of MTPC Lettings Consultancy, launched her business in 2017 after working across every level of the York lettings scene for over 20 years.

In this powerful and inspiring episode, Maxine shares how experiencing homelessness at a young age shaped her passion, drive, and purpose to support both landlords and tenants.

We dive into:

• The essential skills that make a truly exceptional letting agent

• How small, thoughtful actions can make you stand out

• The story behind the 100 Club and her Investor Service

• Creative ways to find and win landlords

• The value of ARLA membership

• Making each day enjoyable, even under pressure

• How she manages stress while running a successful consultancy

Whether you’re just starting in lettings or a seasoned professional, Maxine’s insights and mindset are not to be missed.

Donna has recently set up her brockerage with EXP. In this episode, Donna shares her learnings from 30 years of experience. Donna and I discuss building relationships, the importance of communication, building your confidence and coming out of your comfort, Donna's love of learning, having mentors, the importance of collaboration and the Women In Estate Agency Group.

In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Walker, the dynamic founder of Walker Hall Estate Agents Ltd in South West London. With over 25 years of property expertise, Sarah shares her journey as an independent estate agent and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

We dive into:

Her unwavering passion for property
Why mindset matters more than ever
The power of collaboration and community
The magic of "just doing it" – what have you really got to lose?

Thinking big and backing yourself
Why professionals always practise before they play

How Agents Together and Women in Estate Agency have aided her growth

Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with golden takeaways to inspire, motivate, and get you thinking differently.

Special mentions for Verona Frankish, Simon Gates and Tanya Baker.

Harry is a sales coach in Sydney, Australia and helps people enhance their process and personality to generate better revenue in their business.

Harry and I discuss culture, recruitment, the Johari window, structure, time management, activity input, pipeline management and transations as well as the importance of checklists, mentors and accountability.

Over the last few days Google reviews have dropped in number. Ben Marley joins me to discuss this and what are the solutions?

Are Estate Agents really that bad? Anton and I discuss our recent experiences and what lessons Agents can learn.

Nick is a Director at Borgman Earls in Dublin. Nick and I discuss his learnings from starting as a trainee Agent, becoming a valuer, branch manager, then moving to London and working at Foxtons, becoming a business development manager and then moving to Dublin and eventually setting up his own Agency. We also discuss lead generation, fees, licensing, mentors and the importance of consistency.

Paula Higgins is the Chief Executive of the Home Owners Alliance. The Home Owners Alliance champions the interests of Britain’s homeowners and aspiring homeowners, providing unbiased and practical advice as well as services you can trust whether you are buying, selling or owning your home. Paula and I discusss a recent HOA report that reviewed 150 leasehold property listings across the 3 main portals – Rightmove, Zoopla and OntheMarket and what they found, best practise for estate agents, regulation, enforcement, upfront information, reservation agreements, buyer insurance protection, EPCs and much more.

Alex is the market centre Director at Keller Williams Oxygen. Alex and I discuss her lessons learned starting as an Accountant, knowing your numbers, lead generation, getting out your comfort zone, dealing with stress, the importance of being at your childrens special occasions, time blocking, toxic positivity, todays buyer being tomorrows Seller, book clubs, mentors and imposter syndrome.

Valerie Bannister, National Lettings Director at LSL and recipient of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at The Negotiator Awards! In this episode, Valerie shares her incredible journey in the industry and offers invaluable insights, including: Starting and growing your career in agency Developing your skillset and embracing change as an opportunity Navigating the Renters’ Reform Bill and its implications The power of qualified specialists in today’s market Daily learning, future-proofing your business, and finding new landlords Reflections on mentorship and its impact on her success