Su Butcher – Notable Property Persons in their own words

My Notable Property Person today is Su Butcher, from architects firm Barefoot & Gilles, and who many people will know on twitter. Here is her story.

1. Please introduce yourself. Say a bit about yourself and your company

I’m Su Butcher, I trained in architecture and I manage a practice of no-nonsense Architects called Barefoot & Gilles. We work all over the East of England, London and the South East. Our main work is helping property owners and developers get planning permission to make the most of their assets (including open market and affordable housing), but we also do high profile projects like the Salthouse Harbour Hotel in Ipswich and the new Ipswich Children’s Hospice which is on site and fundraising (see http://barefootgilles.posterous.com for updates).

2. How did you first become involved in property?

In the 1980’s I trained in architecture at Liverpool University, and began my career in practice working for large housing associations in Liverpool which was a bit of an eyeopener. I really got into property in 2006 when I started working for Roger Gilles, because property clients are such an important part of his work.

3. What do you think is your greatest achievement so far?

Every company I have worked for since I went into management in 1997 has become larger and more profitable whilst I’ve been with them. I think I’m most proud of helping maap medical architects’ cashflow through the lean late 1990’s waiting for the PFI health projects to go ahead; it has emerged from a single office in London into an internationally renowned expert in mental health architecture. A truly successful business and proof that specialism can work.

4. Do you or your company have any exciting plans for the future?

Most definitely. The construction industry is suffering a great deal at the moment, not least architects, but Barefoot & Gilles seem to have survived thus far by being visible, being proactive and making sure we continue to deliver an excellent service. The year ahead will be tough but we’re ready for it. You’ll need to follow us on twitter for the news as it gets out! twitter.com/barefootgilles

5. What do you think are the greatest problems facing the private rented sector today?

Regulations are increasingly onerous – the new Part L which arrives in October will increase the cost of development so it is important to get your notices in quickly. Part L1B which applies to existing residential property isn’t as challenging as for new buildings, but there are some changes which will affect renovation, for example. Planning policy is also changing, though it isn’t all as bad as portrayed in the press!

6. What do you think are the greatest opportunities?

The private rented sector has grown considerably and it appears that the coalition government is in favour of private rented. What is important is getting the location and spec right. Many of our clients are looking at joint ventures to help make their sites viable.

7. We have a new government. What would you like them to do for the private rented sector?

What is missing at the moment is certainty. Development clients both public and private sector would dearly like greater certainty about the future policies of the coalition government. Making any investment is all about risk and timing. Greater certainty in government will reduce risks considerably. Not knowing is worse than knowing, definitely!

8. Do you use social media (blogs, twitter, LinkedIn etc)? What place do you think it has in the future of the property industry?

I started using online tools for professional networking about six years ago. I’m very active online and have two blogs, one about Architects and what they are (not so) good at, the other about Professional Networking online. I’m clearly an advocate of these tools for business use.

Social media is extremely important to the property industry, but only a few pioneers are using it at the moment. In essence these tools allow conversations to happen, online, in public. The conversations are searchable, so that public opinion has become much more powerful. This has disadvantages (anyone, including journalists, can find out what people are saying about you) but also advantages (for example, you can consult your customers direct and build a community of endorsement). The downside is that everyone must manage their reputation, but if you do it right, there are considerable benefits. In the coming years those who take proactive advantage of this opportunity will be streets ahead.

9. What is the most important lesson you have learned during your time in property?

I have a whole section of my Just Practising blog called ‘It’s about Money Stupid’. It really is about money for most people, and good consultants recognise that and respond to it. We make our clients money, whether it is with the right advice or the right design.

10. What advice would you have to someone thinking of entering the property industry today?

I’m not really qualified to say, but given my answer above I’d suggest: make sure you are clear what your objectives are and take decisions to bring them closer. If it is a money-making exercise don’t be tempted to treat it like a hobby – and vice versa!

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Thank you Su.  I have made a note of your blogs, and I suggest everyone else does too.  They are Just Practising (love the leaning tower in the header) and Just Professionals.  You can follow Su on twitter at @SuButcher.