The property market has seen significant activity despite the difficulties that COVID has imposed over the past year. Supply and demand of property as well as low interest rates and new lenders to the local market have made a significant impact together with the desire for change that working from home has brought about. At a difficult time for vendors and purchasers alike the importance of the Jersey Estate Agents’ Association (JEAA) has never been so apparent.
The JEAA has been busy this past year, they have had tremendous success in lobbying Government and were successful in obtaining co-funding for the profession; without which many agencies and practices would undoubtedly have gone under. Many hours were spent discussing with politicians the workings of the profession to help them understand the significant impact that COVID has had on each and every one of our businesses.
The JEAA is currently meeting with the Scrutiny Panel to discuss the regulation of the profession and the necessity for professionalism and examinations within the industry.
At the recent AGM, Nick Dodsley MNAEA, MARLA was appointed President of the JEAA and Catherine Buckley FRICS was appointed Vice President. Both Nick and Catherine have a huge amount of experience in the local property market and are keen for the profession to be held in high regard. They both support regulation within the industry, and for agents’ expertise to be recognised and rewarded through the appropriate qualifications.
Jo Huelin and Carol Watson were duly elected to the Committee which also includes existing serving members Gill Hunt, FNAEA (former JEAA President and Propertymark Regional Executive), Shelagh Marett LLB (Hons), FNAEA, MARLA, Aimee Sinclair-Horgan ANAEA and Samantha Leighton MNAEA.
2021has seen expansion within JEAA, and the Association is delighted to welcome Watson Homes and Hawk Estates on board, adding to the growing list of member agents. Several other agencies are in the process of joining.
The JEAA is keen to ensure that its members follow best practice to safeguard consumers and promote professional and ethical standards. This is especially important when the market is showing a lack of supply / stock and ever-increasing demand, fuelled by low interest rates and more flexible mortgage packages.
The JEAA aims to show a united front with fellow agents, working together to ensure there is consistency, confidence, and professionalism within the industry. With examinations likely to come into force for all agency staff within the UK, the JEAA’s new president is keen to promote the benefits for agents and endorse the qualifications as an important tool for raising the reputation of the industry.
After the tremendous success of the JEAA diamond Ball in November 2019, the committee is very excited to announce that tickets will be on sale shortly for the second Diamond Ball on Friday 19th November 2021 priced at £80pp or £75ppfor a table of 10. Not forgetting that one lucky person will take home a stunning diamond.
