The newly-elected president of the National Association of Estate Agents says he aims to raise the profile of the organisation amongst the public and opinion-formers.
The NAEA has long been regarded by some individual agents as a weak-voiced body lacking the authority to speak for the whole industry in the way in which its US counterpart, the National Association of Realtors, is a respected player in that country.
Now Simon Gerrard says the public should be made more aware of what the NAEA qualification stands for and actively seek out members over non-members.
He also wants the association to have a voice in what has become a growing political debate over estate agency practices, house prices and supply in the lead up to next spring's general election.
I hope to improve recognition of NAEA as the industry's leading voice at Westminster with the intention to shape legislation that will help improve professional standards and licensing across the whole property industry says Gerrard.
Gerrard has been in estate agency for 25 years, starting at Conrad Riblat's retail department before moving to Druce & Co. He joined his father's firm, Martyn Gerrard Estate Agents in 1991, initially running the commercial department before becoming managing director in 2000 and expanding the business from five branches to 11.
Gerrard's father set up Martyn Gerrard estate agency in 1964 and Martyn visited the office from the age of eight - I helped with the photo-copying he says.
Comments
Thanks for that 'Guest (MCS)' - you might want to enquire if they do spelling courses........
TPOS does not offer training to a basic standard for the profession - it is a different animal allthogether.
Is there any requirement for NAEA TPOS do a fantastic job in my opinion and the NAEA is so far behind their position is unrecoverable. Customers do not care if you are a member of NAEA/NFOPP or anyone, they are looking for quick, efficient good value service. The world has changed and NAEA have been left behind.
Let us hope so, but it will take more than just a new president.
For over 30 years the NAEA has been a nonentity to the general public. The whole organization needs changing and a real qualified marketing man fully involved in the top three of the administration. Does one not think that, if asked, many would think Rightmove ran the profession Long way to go!
Rob, a new President is elected every year!
I know Simon and he will be a good front man.
We could do with some help photocopying at our office, any chance Simon :p
Every profession needs a strong organisation as a figurehead, to speak for the industry as a whole. Up until now, that hasnt really been the case with the NAEA. Hopefully, electing a new president can change things for the better. Simon Gerrards been making all the right noises so far, but ultimately, the proof will be in the pudding. Ill reserve judgement for now.