Me and My Patch
May 14, 2008
David Orr - Wise property Care
Tell us about yourself?
Born in Paisley I've lived in East Kilbride for the best part of my life and I have bee working in property preservation for 14 years now. Before I broke into this industry, I began my career as a mechanical engineer working in the oil industry inspecting steel structures. This allowed me to travel and work abroad, spending three and a half years in the Middle East. I then decided I wanted to set myself some new career goals. I made the unusual but smooth transition into the building preservation industry and I have never looked back. I have now been working for Wise Property Care for 6 years.
What are your responsibilities?
As the South West Area Manager, I am responsible for the complete running of the branch, which expands from south of the Clyde as far down as Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway. As well as managing two surveyors, I am in control of the day-to-day operations and generating new business. As Scotland's leading woodworm, dry rot and rising damp specialists, we now have seven branches across Scotland as well as four additional satellite branches.
What's keeping you busy at the moment?
The property market is undergoing a great deal of change, even more after the Home Report is introduced on 8th December 2008. It will then be compulsory for every person selling a house in Scotland to provide potential buyers with a Home Report which will include a single survey, an energy report and a property questionnaire. We are currently developing a programme to target the domestic market to prepare for these changes, which will radically change the way in which house are sold.
Although things are extremely busy I have always believed that it is important to strike a good work/life balance. To switch off I take to the fairways to play golf - although admittedly this tends to be only when the sun is shinning!
When it comes to property, what is the next big thing?
Without a doubt it will be the consequences of the Home Report. In the long term these changes may speed up the selling processes. Problems will have to be identified before the house goes on the market. A full health check will mean houses will be sold true to value and the buyer will get better value for money, socially for an older building. With our help and guidance, the responsibility will be on the seller to ensure their house is in good condition and that no hidden problems become apparent when the keys are exchanged.
What one thing above all sells a house?
The home has to have been kept in top condition and all problems dealt with head on and resolved. The foundations of a house are the bricks and mortar. Fabulous features may be eye catching, but they do not hold a property together. If you can guarantee that your home has been well maintained it will not be on the market for very long.
If money was no object where would you live?
My heart is in Scotland, so I would still want to stay close to my roots. Perhaps somewhere along the Ayrshire Coast, looking out towards Arran or Ailsa Craig. I would also have a great choice of golf courses to choose from. A second home in either Spain or Florida would be fantastic, allowing me to golf all year round!!!
