We chat to Adam Golder, Managing Director of JW&Co Langleys, St Albans.

What’s different about your agency?

JW&Co Langleys has five West Hertfordshire branches with seasoned professionals in each office with strong local knowledge. The three Langleys offices in St Albans, Park Street and London Colney complement seamlessly the offices in Bushey Heath and Garston. We’re a friendly family business, which has new management and ownership, yet we have retained nearly all staff, which consequently provides continuity to our clients and a platform from which to grow. We are investing for the future and see many opportunities going forward, in sales, lettings, property development and investment.

Where do you live, with whom, and why did you choose your current property?

I live in Potten End, a small hamlet outside Berkhamsted with my wife and two daughters, if they’re home from work or from university. We moved to the area over 20 years ago, for schooling and for the blend of a semi-rural community, with easy access to the town centre and to London. We have a lovely cottage which reminds us of our West Country routes, albeit without any sea in sight!

If you weren’t an estate agent, what would you be?

Probably a cricket bowling coach; or I’ve always hankered after a pig farm, should the opportunity ever arise.

When did you buy your first property and what was it like?

My wife and I bought a semi in 1987 with room for a young family and a garden. It was a perfect first home, on the outskirts of a town and with good commuter links.

What’s the most shocking thing you’ve encountered in this profession?

It’s not really a shock, but unrealistic expectations regarding values and poor presentation of properties is always something to watch.

If you could have a holiday home, where would it be?

Definitely in the West Country or in the Alps.