I’m delighted to have joined the Story of Home team and I’m excited to build on the existing success of the brand, through leading on the expansion into South London. I’m a social type who thoroughly enjoys opportunities to meet new people, develop existing contacts and build strong relationships. I’ve always demonstrated a professional approach to property, I am a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS) and maintain the very highest of standards throughout all my professional endeavours.
Head of SoH south London, Alex Elsey MRICS
The allure of property
I’ve always had a passion for property; from a young age I’d frequently choose to watch Location, Location, Location or Grand Designs. In more recent years, more creative design led inspirations such as the residential apartments within the Kings Cross Gasholders, architects such as Norman Foster or the renovation of historic homes tends to be of interest. In my view, there is something quite captivating about blending the characterful old and contemporary new design elements together, carefully interweaving modern technology with the past. I’ve grown up with parents who have an enthusiasm for characterful, period homes. Each house incorporated significant renovation, sometimes across many years to carefully preserve and enhance its original period features. This thoughtful approach instilled a deep appreciation for the importance of conserving the unique character of each home, not rushing to significantly change a property, before you’ve fully lived in, appreciated or even discovered important, key features of a particular building.
Career beginnings
I fostered my interest in property by studying Real Estate at Nottingham Trent University. I then started my property career in the new-build residential development sector, across a period of 10 years in London, both at Strutt & Parker and latterly Savills. I qualified as a Chartered Surveyor in 2017 and have accrued a broad range of real estate knowledge in both residential and commercial property.
While I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the start of my property career I’ve always had an enthusiasm for beautiful, well-designed homes and the move to work at Story of Home fulfils that interest. It’s so exciting to embark upon a new challenge. There are rarely larger, or more important transactions in one’s life than the sale or purchase of a home – I’m really energised at the prospect of helping a new type of client through this process.
The love of London
In the years I’ve been working in London I’ve been lucky enough to live in some fantastic areas of this great city, all of which have their own unique attraction. Whether it be the time spent living in Islington, Bow or Greenwich I realise that London now forms many layers of my recent life. As I revisit through these places I am fondly reminded of experiences, friendships and stories enjoyed in each location. More broadly, I believe London’s biggest strength is that of its multiculturalism; it is one global cultural city with the most diverse society – something that should be more regularly celebrated. I often use two wheels to navigate the big smoke, meaning I’ve got a great understanding of how different areas of London knit together into a delicate woven tapestry of streets, crescents, alleys and terraces. I’ve always thought the juxtaposition of London’s architecture makes it rather special, particularly in areas such as the City of London. Historic relics of previous centuries can often be found nestled between the frequent new additions to the skyline. London’s architecture has never stood still and it’s a strong sign of economic strength that it continues to evolve.
Putting down roots
I am a Wandsworth resident now and the rows of Victorian and Edwardian period properties, tree-lined streets, trendy brunch spots and gastropubs in Balham are hard to beat. Clapham, on the other hand, is renowned for its lively bars, charming Old Town and vast common perfect for embracing a more active and outdoor lifestyle; something I try to maintain. Wandsworth Common, another green gem in South London, offers a peaceful escape from the City’s hustle and bustle with a range of boutique shops and cafes. There is the culinary diversity of Tooting and not to mention some of my favourite pubs are situated in South London; some of which boast the best pub gardens in London!
Having certainly committed my medium-long term future to London, I’m always enthused by the opportunities South London offers and the options available in the local property market. The varied nature of character in local areas, age and styles of homes present a multitude of opportunities to suit whichever preference. The relative strong health of many South London high streets underpins developer and investor interest to continue ongoing regeneration where required, ensuring South London retains an interesting and varied property offering.
The next chapter
Estate agency done properly, through a more personal and tailored approach is something I fully believe in. That is exactly what Story of Home offers its clients. The process of any sale or purchase of a home is incredibly emotive and my role is to facilitate as smooth a transaction as possible, providing clear and transparent pricing advice and a reliable, responsive approach to communication. It’s important I get to know my clients properly and be there for you every step of the way.
If you are thinking about moving in south London and would like some friendly advice, get in touch with Alex on 020 7867 3999 or alexander@storyofhome.co.uk