Agent of the month – Graham Preston in the Quercy

What does a typical day as a Leggett agent entail?
I like an early start 05:00 to be able to start the day with all client requests answered and to match up client searches with properties in the area. After that it is viewings with clients, mandate visits and keeping in touch with the market in this area.
What is your favourite place in the area you cover? What do you like most about your area?
I have a number of favourite places but it the possibility visit the coasts (Atlantic and the med), the mountains for a day’s skiing, Bordeaux or Toulouse plus all the local beauty spots.
I like the area because I am close to 4 departments; Tarn and Garonne, Lot and Garonne, the Lot and the Gers. This gives me access to a wide range of properties from lovely stone villages built on the rolling hills, properties with large plots of land and anything from total renovation projects to quality homes.

What is the funniest / weirdest request you ever had?
Often there are homes which come on to the market that have been in a family for many generations, having done the usual measuring, calculating and evaluations I come up with a market valuation. I have been asked to put a value on the memories that the sellers have because they were so happy growing up in the property! Apart from this rather sad request I have also been asked to provide and fit a washing machine and dryer!

What were you doing before you joined Leggett?
I spent 22 years with British Airways and then had a catering business with my wife Linda.
What is the most unusual house you mandated?
I still have a garage for sale in the town of Valence d’Agen! It is a complete wreck (real challenge) but could make a nice home for a very keen DIYer.

What do you like best about your job?
When you show someone a property and they get that misty-eyed look as they fall in love with their future French home. Job done.
Please click here to see Graham’s portfolio of properties.