Hannah McDougall's Return to Douglas & Gordon: From Lettings Manager to Self-Employed Broker
Hannah McDougall began her property career 14 years ago as a Lettings Negotiator in Chiswick. It was her first taste of the industry - and she loved it. "The rewarding, fast-paced team spirit is what I enjoy the most," she shares. Hannah then spent over three years at Douglas & Gordon, working as a Lettings Manager. After a short period away, she has now re-joined the D&G network as a self-employed broker.
After working in both traditional estate agency and then being immersed in the self-employed brokerage world since the beginning of 2022, why did you want to return to D&G?
Personally, I've found that some self-employed broker models speak about high street estate agency in derogatory terms. However, I've had a long career in high street estate agency and have loved (nearly) every minute of it! I also have many clients who I believe would vouch to having a great experience with us, stating that we've helped them achieve or even surpass their property goals. To me, Douglas & Gordon is the only brand that combines the respect and experience of traditional estate agency with a proven track record of excellence in client care, and the freedom and creativity of running your own business. The opportunity for individuals like myself to come in and be truly rewarded financially for our experience and expertise is something I really believe in.
How do you perceive the future of this model in the UK property market?
I firmly believe in the growth of brokerage models in the UK, and I anticipate they will eventually rival, if not equal, the market share currently held by traditional estate agencies. Consumers today both need and deserve choices, something that has been lacking in the traditional UK offerings, especially in Prime Central London. There are undeniable benefits to this. My clients appreciate a very personalised service. They prefer to work with a specific individual who genuinely represents and serves their interests, which is precisely why they opt for such a service. The mentorship and training I received from high street estate agency have been instrumental in enabling me to provide this calibre of service, and for that, I will always be thankful.
What was the most surprising difference between the self-employed broker model and the traditional estate agency approach?
I have seen some fantastic agents build businesses of incredible scale without the reliance on a branch or other elements I once thought were essential. I was also surprised to discover a shared passion for self-development, wellness, and continuous learning within the self-employed agent community. It must be that genuine entrepreneurial spirit I'd heard so much about! On a personal note, I love to achieve things I never thought were possible. Being surrounded by individuals with a similar mindset is incredibly motivating and inspiring.
What has been your most significant achievement to date?
If you were to really push me, I would say that getting Douglas & Gordon in Chelsea to rank number one in both market share and company results was quite a moment for me. However, my achievements have always been more people-centric than anything else. I am proudest when I see agents who have worked with me or for me out in the property world, managing their own branches, establishing their own businesses, and simply being outstanding agents. I understand the hard work all agents put in, and they truly deserve every bit of respect and reward available to them.
What are your goals for 2024?
I am so excited to work with both old and new clients in Chelsea, helping them in achieving their property goals, whether that's to invest further, make an exciting move away, or find a new home for their growing family.
Do you have any advice for individuals considering starting their own estate agency business?
Find people who inspire you and do what they do! Success already exists; you don't need to create it from scratch. Being self-employed doesn't mean you're alone, and it can certainly be a lot of fun!
Interested in joining us? Reach out to James Redington at:
T: 0207 963 4600
E: jredington@dng.co.uk