16/09/2026
One of the nicest things about my job is that I'm invited into people's homes every day.
After nearly 35 years, I've drunk an awful lot of tea. Most of it has been perfectly lovely.
There was the lady who proudly brought out her 'best china', which, by the look of it, hadn't seen the light of day for many years. My colleague only realised halfway through his tea that it appeared to have been filtered through a cobweb!
Then there was the memorable cup of Lapsang Souchong.
I was proudly told it was a particular favourite. Not wanting to be rude, I smiled politely and took a sip.
It tasted exactly how I imagine the bottom of a damp old barbecue would taste.
Determined to be appreciative, I drank it.
All of it.
And smiled.
Which was a mistake, because she promptly refilled my cup and I was suddenly struggling my way through a second one!
Estate agency has taken me into hundreds of homes over the years, and while I may remember the houses, very often it's the people, the conversations and little moments like these that stay with me.
It's one of the reasons I still love what I do.
Although if you're thinking of inviting me round to value your house, ordinary tea is absolutely fine.