Leading our new patch around St Albans and Welwyn, meet Richard Warwick...
In the first of a series of introductions to the team at Nash, we asked Richard to reveal more about the unique service he now offers to buyers and sellers in the St. Albans and Welwyn area.
We hear you have some unusually impressive links to the area…
I was born and bred in St Albans, and have lived and worked locally for almost all of my life. I went to junior school in Welwyn; then to secondary next to the Abbey in St Albans; and my mum still lives in St Michael’s. Our family connection goes back even further though – my grandfather used to own a shop in town, and my great grandfather was the mayor! I’ve seen the city grow and change over the years, and I reckon it would be difficult to find an agent who knows it better.
How long have you been in the business?
I began my career in banking in London, but I didn’t suit sitting at a desk – I’m a people person and love getting out and about. I kind of fell into estate agency in 1999, and over the past 27 years, I’ve worked for various independent and larger agencies in the villages to the north of St Albans; the city itself, Luton and Harpenden among them. I was Head of Office for Nash in Tring before taking this role.
What excites you about taking on the St Albans and Welwyn patch – what can you offer that others can’t?
I’m excited to be able to offer a really personal service. Whereas with other agencies, you’ll get passed around several different people, I will be your one single point of contact, sharing my experience every step of the way, from valuation to completion. It’s about continuity; and quality rather than quantity – looking after only a select few special properties means I can be incredibly flexible. Viewings out of office hours are no problem; and clients have my mobile number to call any time. It means a much better result – for both buyers and sellers.
What’s your favourite type of property to sell?
I particularly love quality homes – those with character and something unique – whether it’s a pretty little townhouse, a sprawling estate in the countryside, or a Victorian or Georgian property with a wow-factor extension. I’m slightly less of a fan of tiny cottages… but only because I’m 6ft 5in!
For those new to the area, what have St Albans and Welwyn got to offer buyers?
St Albans is a beautiful city, and is very attractive to London or family buyers, thanks to the station – perfect for commuting – and excellent schools (both state and private). There are some particularly lovely older parts, such as St Michael’s and the Abbey Conservation area.
Welwyn has an entirely different, village vibe. The schooling is good, you’ve got great transport links (it’s just 1.5 miles from Welwyn North train station, and there’s easy access to the A1), plus the countryside is on your doorstep. The people are really friendly, and you can pop to Welywn Garden City, Hertford or Harpenden when you need something bigger.
Where do you recommend to eat and drink locally?
St Albans used to be renowned for having 50 pubs in a square mile, and while that’s no longer true, it’s still a real hub for food and drink and there are so many great foodie options. Personally, I like Prime Steakhouse for delicious steaks, Little Marrakech for a nice Moroccan, or Tabure for a Turkish feast.
And for entertainment – any must-sees?
The Alban Arena theatre often has good shows; and there are fun events in Verulamium Park, including the new Sound Bites Festival in September, mixing food, drink and live music; and Comedy Garden in July, with top comedians, street food and more.
Where would we find you on a Sunday morning?
Probably tucking into a lazy breakfast at The Waffle House in St Michaels; followed by a walk around the Albans Lakes (to work off all those waffles!).
To get in touch with Richard, call 01727 855 855 or drop him an email at richard.warwick@nashpartnership.co.uk