This months property Q&A is with Margaret Lowry from John Hilditch & Co. estate agents in Hale

Tell us a little about yourself…

Born on the Wirral, Cheshire I started my working life at a stockbroker in Liverpool before transferring up to Edinburgh where I lived for 12 years and where my son was born. I then relocated to Alderley Edge where I decided a new career in estate agency was the perfect opportunity to build some local knowledge and interact with the community. I have always loved property and have spent a lot of time renovating and upgrading my own homes and was therefore delighted to get a part time job at a local estate agent. I love my career and I have now been in the business 24 years!

John set up John N Hilditch & Co in 1996 and I joined the company in 2001. I am extremely proud that for the second consecutive year John Hilditch & Co has won the British Property Awards for the Altrincham area. The award was independently judged on our outstanding customer service, sales and prices achieved.

What do you love most about the properties in Cheshire?

I love working in Hale as the property stock is so diverse.  One minute you will be showing a £3,000,000 new build home the next a smaller period terrace or apartment

What is your greatest achievement and what made it so special?

My greatest moment in the business must be selling a property where all the proceeds  went to the North West Air Ambulance charity. It was the biggest bequest the charity had ever received and it was such a privilege to be part of it.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing estate and lettings agents at the moment?

The current Brexit situation has created uncertainty causing paralysis by analysis. This said, the less motivated buyers have now taken a back seat however the more motivated clientele are still purchasing, and we haven’t seen a major fall off in sales.

If you became Housing Minister for a day what would you change?

Obviously stamp duty, which is a huge burden for the young.  There has been much talk about switching the burden from the purchaser to the seller and I think this is a good idea as it would free all first time buyers from any duty.  There would still need to be a tax for people with second homes and buy-to-let purchasers, though.

What makes the perfect home?

For me, it’s a happy home with lots of light and ease of maintenance.  I also love a garden and a space to relax after a hard day’s work.  

P.S.

What’s your average weekend like?

Weekends are precious. I love relaxing with friends and family over a glass of wine and enjoying the beautiful Cheshire countryside and amenities we have on our doorstep.

What’s your dream purchase?

A property, of course! My dream buy would be a beach front house or chalet in Abersoch. 

John N Hilditch & Co 162/164 Ashley Road, Hale, Cheshire, WA15 9SF

Sales - t: 0161 929 6363 e: sales@jhilditch.com
Lettings - t: 0161 928 3773 e: lettings@jhilditch.com