Colbert & Co. property are one of East Corks fastest Growing Estate Agents and offer expert Advice on Sales, Valuations, Lettings and Management. They pride themselves on being personal and going that extra mile to ensure a seamless service. They estimate the market value of property and land for their clients. They make thorough inspections and investigations of a property and consider factors such as location and business in their valuations. After providing advice on areas such as sales, compensation claims or loans, they organise and manage auctions (even online). They embrace change and are constantly challenging tradition because they have a strong desire to improve the way the industry operates. We had a chat with Property Manager Kate Colbert.
Tell us about yourself, the company and job profile?
I have just recently turned 30 and finding it difficult to come to terms with it. I have two little boys and I enjoy a spot of showjumping when my schedule allows me. I have been working for Colbert and Co for about 4 years now. It is a family run business that has been around for as long as I can remember. It has been in the family for over 30 years, my older brother started it fado fado and now James, my other brother is the director of the company. He took it from its knees and improved it to become the company it is today. I am part of the Letting and Management Team with my colleague Niamh. I manage over 300 of the properties in the company’s portfolio and re let properties for our existing landlords when they become available.
Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My father… And Beyonce! My father was always and still is very much my hero. He was always very knowledgeable and could work out a situation within seconds, he is very quick and witty and most definitely the most intelligent person I know. I like to think I have many of his positive traits.
Beyonce because well …. Need I go on? She is a very powerful woman and made her fame herself. She doesn’t need anyone or anything to help her get to where she is going. ‘Goals’ as the young folk say! (I’m 30 now so consider me old)
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three things would you have and why?
My two kids and my partner. But if my partner couldn’t make it, I would bring my horse. Reason being, my kids would miss their mother and I would miss them, I would bring my partner because he is literally my better half. If I was allowed bring my horse, I would bring him because he grounds me and brings me back to my childhood, I would also have lots of spare time on my hands to try and force my kids to like horses!!
In a team environment, what role do you usually take on?
Team Leader. I am loud and like to be at the front, middle and centre of everything that is going on. I like giving orders, even if they are the incorrect ones.
What three things do you need to be successful in your job?
My two mobile phones and thick skin.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success to me is happiness. Being content with what you have and making the most of the hand you have been dealt. Looking around and feeling grateful for those around you and accepting the life you have and being happy with it, to me, is success. Complete happiness is one of the hardest things to come by but I feel like I do a pretty good job at reminding myself how much more well off I am than most and I am lucky to be where I am in life, I do not require more and so I am measuring up to my own definition but not quite ‘measured’ up just yet.
Success in work however, is about 20 more rental properties on our books.
Which of the two animals would you say you are most like — a sheep or a wolf — and why?
A wolf. Everyone fears how powerful a wolf can be, its strength and it’s bewildered ways frightens others but people are intrigued by a wolf, they are interested to know more about them. They are pretty to look at but fierce in their ways! I don’t think I’m fierce by any stretch of the imagination but I know one thing for sure, I’m not a sheep!!
To contact Sarah or any of the team call (021) 463 9557
