Sue Ellis
Property Manager

What are your main duties and responsibilities?

My main role is to conduct rent reviews so that I can advise landlords on the current market rates. If adjustments are required, I’ll help to negotiate terms between landlords and tenants, acting as a mediator to preserve a positive and professional relationship between the parties.

When there is a change of tenants, I will vet applicants before booking them in for viewings. This involves conducting background checks to assess their financial situation and rental history.  At the start of the tenancy, I’ll complete the necessary legal documentation to keep the landlord compliant with regulations, as well as carrying out references and right to rent checks.

I am also responsible for keeping our property management software up to date with any changes to landlord and tenant information, making sure that there are reminders when work is due and there are no outstanding tasks. I also keep on top of the public insurance documents for the contractors we work with to make sure we have current copies on file.

Outside of these duties, I support the team on an ad hoc basis with our new and existing tenancies. I’ll provide any additional resources or information they may need and will step in when required if they are out on appointments.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I start my day by checking the emails for replies from landlord and tenants regarding renewal and rent reviews that are ongoing. I then look ahead at what tenancies are coming up for renewal and require rent reviews to allow sufficient time to complete these new tasks, avoiding any last-minute complications. By starting my day in this way, I can then prioritise what needs to be done. I then engage with landlords and current tenants to explore renewal options, negotiate tenancy terms and review the rent so that all parties can make an informed decision based on the current market value of the property. During the day, I will also carry out housekeeping on our management software to ensure that it is kept up to date and assist the team with ad hoc duties so that we’re working as efficiently and effectively as we can.

How long have you worked for Pure Lettings?

I joined the Pure Lettings team in 2021.

What do you love about your job?

Pure Lettings is a close-knit team, giving us the opportunity to build strong relationships and create a supportive and collaborative work environment. Everyone has a chance to contribute and make a real impact. We work together closely, bouncing ideas off each other and combining our strengths to achieve success. Learning from one another allows us to expand our skills and knowledge; it’s fun as well!

What do you enjoy about working with clients?

I really enjoy working with landlords and tenants, as it gives me a chance to make a difference in their lives. The daily variety also adds lots of excitement to the role. I find it satisfying to encounter new challenges and find new solutions to resolve them. It keeps me motivated!

How did you get into the industry?

I’ve lived between Spain and the UK for the past 20 years. In 2002, I joined my brother’s estate agency in Spain, and it was this experience that sparked my interest in the property industry. In 2008, I returned to the UK and joined a sales-only estate agency. They launched a lettings department during my time there and this quickly grew into a success. More than 90 properties ended up on our books, driven by referrals and recommendations from our landlords!

I moved back to Spain for a few years but returned to the UK in 2021 where I was given the opportunity to work flexible hours for Pure Lettings. I’m lucky that, because we have great remote working systems in place, I am still able to visit Spain on a regular basis.

What are the most important skills for your role?

• Attention to detail

This is crucial to ensure accurate documentation, thorough market analysis, successful negotiations, and compliance with legal requirements. Attention to detail is key to achieving fair and mutually beneficial outcomes for all parties involved.

• Commitment and dedication

These skills contribute to client satisfaction, proactive problem-solving, continuous learning, and building trust and credibility. They also ensure that close attention is paid to timelines.

Tell us a ‘fun fact’ that people won’t necessarily know about your role.

I’ve been a landlord and a tenant. Having been on both sides of the situations I deal with on a daily basis gives me some much-needed perspective. It lets me approach my work with a deeper understanding, fairness, and consideration for the needs of everyone involved.

Where do you live?

I live in Longfield where I’m surrounded by beautiful green spaces, nature reserves, and historical sites such as Cobham Hall and Lullingstone Castle. During the summer there is a fantastic agricultural and country fair – The Longfield Show. This has a range of activities and entertainment to enjoy, as well as brilliant showcases of local produce and crafts.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love to indulge in my passion for travel. I find it exhilarating to explore new destinations, immerse myself in different cultures, and create unforgettable memories along the way. I also like to socialise with friends and family, to keep active by heading out on walks, and to cook. It’s fun to experiment with different ingredients, flavours, and recipes to create different meals.