Why I Am Standing for NAEA Propertymark Vice President
Over the past few months, many clients, colleagues, friends and fellow agents have asked me the same question:
“Why are you standing for NAEA Propertymark Vice President?”
The answer is actually quite simple.
I genuinely believe that our profession has given me opportunities that I could never have imagined when I first entered the property industry, and I feel the time is right to give something back.
A Career Built Through Property
My career in property started in a very different market to the one we operate in today.
Since founding Tiger Sales & Lettings in 2008, I have been fortunate to work alongside some fantastic colleagues, clients, landlords, investors and homeowners. Together we have grown the business from a small local agency into an established property company serving Blackpool, the Fylde Coast, Preston and the wider North West.
During that time, I have seen the industry evolve significantly.
Technology has transformed the way we operate. Consumer expectations have changed. Compliance obligations have increased. Legislation continues to evolve at pace.
Yet despite all these changes, one thing remains constant:
Property remains a people business.
The role of a professional property agent is still to guide, advise, problem-solve and help people navigate some of the biggest financial and personal decisions they will ever make.
Why Propertymark Matters
Throughout my career, Propertymark has played an important role in my professional development.
As a qualified member, I strongly believe that professionalism, education and continuous learning help improve standards across our industry.
Propertymark provides agents with training, qualifications, guidance, representation and support at a time when the property sector is becoming increasingly regulated and complex.
Importantly, it also gives members a voice.
Unlike many professional bodies, Propertymark members directly elect many of their representatives. That means members have a genuine opportunity to influence the future direction of the organisation and the profession it represents.
Listening to Members
One of the most enjoyable aspects of standing for Vice President has been speaking with members from across the country.
Agents in different regions often face different challenges, but many of the themes are remarkably consistent.
Transaction times remain a concern.
Regulation and compliance continue to increase.
Recruitment and retention remain difficult.
Technology is creating both opportunities and challenges.
Many agents are also concerned about how future regulation of property agents may be implemented.
What has been encouraging is the passion members continue to have for the profession and their desire to see standards continue to improve.
Supporting Agents Through Change
If there is one message I have heard repeatedly during conversations with members, it is this:
Change itself is not the problem.
The challenge is ensuring that change is implemented in a practical way and that agents are properly supported through it.
The property industry is undoubtedly moving towards greater regulation, higher standards and increased professional accountability.
In my view, that is ultimately a positive direction of travel.
However, it is vital that agents are given the guidance, support and realistic implementation frameworks needed to adapt successfully.
Professional standards matter.
Qualifications matter.
Consumer confidence matters.
But practical support for members matters just as much.
Looking Ahead
Whether it is embracing technology, preparing for future regulation, improving transaction times or promoting the value of professional property agents, our industry faces both challenges and opportunities in equal measure.
I believe Propertymark has a vital role to play in supporting members through that journey.
Standing for NAEA Propertymark Vice President has already been a hugely rewarding experience. It has allowed me to engage with agents from across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and beyond, learn from their experiences and gain an even greater appreciation of the professionalism that exists throughout our sector.
Regardless of the outcome, I remain committed to supporting the profession, engaging with fellow members and helping raise standards across the industry.
I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to speak with me, share their views and support my campaign.
The conversations have been invaluable and I look forward to continuing them in the months and years ahead.
Craig Webster MNAEA MNAVA MARLA
Managing Director, Tiger Sales & Lettings
Candidate for NAEA Propertymark Vice President
If you are a Propertymark member and eligible to vote – your support is much appreciated and you can vote by following the link;
