AN INTERVIEW WITH PHIL JURGENSON & CHRIS DUFFY
CP Property, established by Phil Jurgenson & Chris Duffy, have between them amassed almost 30 years of experience in the sales, lettings and property management industry. Their combined knowledge and passion for the property sector, not to mention their desire to eradicate any stigmas associated with letting/estate agents, is their reason for establishing their company.
Both Phil & Chris finished their high schooling early to focus on their careers, and in 2017 established CP Property. With them being brothers-in-law, they soon realised they shared a common interest in property and in providing great customer service. Consequently, they decided to start their own company, which has, despite enormous competition, become a recognised and positive force within the Edinburgh & Lothians property market.
What can you tell us about the current housing market in Edinburgh?
The Edinburgh & Lothians lettings market is still very well placed in comparison to its regional competitors. While there has arguably been a slight downturn, we’re still seeing year-on-year growth in rental prices, despite the current political issues surrounding Brexit etc. The sales market is generally quite insular from the rest of the country, although, there has been a noticeable difference in the past few months. In saying that, it does tend to be more regional than in general.
Which neighbourhoods currently provide the best opportunities for investors?
This really depends on any investors specific goals i.e. yield versus return (capital gains), although, it is possible to achieve both if you follow the market trends and keep a keen eye on areas that have plans for development/regeneration. While the sales market has taken somewhat of a decline in recent months, the city’s rental market is still very buoyant, which indicates that it’s an ideal time to be investing, whatever your overall goals may be.
How does CP Property differ from other property management companies in the area?
We pride ourselves on our very personal, tailored service. Our aim is to give both landlords and tenants the highest level of service possible. CP Property’s goal is for sustainable growth, and while we’re determined to maintain that, our clients can rest assured that our service levels will never fall by the wayside in doing so.
How can your clients also benefit from your refurbishment service?
Working alongside a team of trusted and reliable tradesmen whom we work with on a daily basis, we can ensure a quick and pain free experience in what can otherwise prove to be a bit of a minefield. We’re happy to take full ownership of any works and undertake full project management, or likewise, work alongside you through to completion. As we’re a relatively small business and use our own independent contractors, we don’t have the overheads of a larger building company and can keep costs low while potentially adding significant value to clients’ investments.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Having celebrated our two year anniversary in October, and while we’ve seen very good growth in that time, we are still an emerging business. So far, we’ve loved every minute of year three and are looking forward to what 2020 brings.
We’re just two regular guys that happen to be brothers in law, who are hoping to make a positive impact on the property management, sales and letting industry in Edinburgh and its surrounding areas, in hope that it removes some of the stigma associated with our industry.