We’re delighted to welcome new Associate, Tom Bevan, to our valuation team in Southampton.
Tom specialises in residential valuation and spent the last 8 years honing his trade with Gerald Eve LLP, during which time, he progressed from Graduate to Associate.
He has undertaken a number of high value property valuations throughout his career, including one for a £40 million flat in one of London’s most high-profile developments.
We spoke to him to find out a bit more about his career and why he wanted to join our ranks.
So, Tom, tell us a bit about your first ever job.
I was ‘compost boy’ at the local garden centre. I would carry bags of the stuff to people’s cars. Although in December, I was promoted to Christmas tree boy!
And what was it about Vail Williams that made you want to join the firm?
The company has an excellent reputation, on the south coast especially. I have friends who recommended Vail Williams, and when I read more about their ambitious growth in recent years, I knew it was a company I would be proud to work for.
What would you like to achieve in your new role?
I’m excited to help drive the firm’s valuation services forward and further enhance the company’s reputation, both locally and nationally.
What would you say is the best thing about working in property?
It’s a cliché but it’s the variety of the job. In valuation especially, there’s a great balance between being in and out of the office. Whether you’re out meeting clients, inspecting properties or doing research in the office. It’s always struck me as a very social industry too; I do love a charity bike ride!
If you could work in any other profession, what would it be and why?
I wanted to be a marine biologist when I was very young but never pursued it. It would be amazing to travel the oceans or be a part of a production like Blue Planet.
And what is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
There’s a positive side to any situation, even if you don’t see it right away.
We like our clients and staff to get to know the ‘real’ people who join our firm, so we asked Tom to tell us a bit more about what makes him tick outside work.
What is your favourite book?
Touching the Void by Joe Simpson. A harrowing tale of sheer grit and survival.
Tell us a surprising fact about yourself
I’m learning Japanese. My fiancé is half Japanese so I want to be able to include some Japanese in my groom’s speech next year. I can confirm that it’s a very difficult language!
Have you ever had a hair-raising moment, if so, what was it?
Sky-diving in Taupo, New Zealand. Self-inflicted, frightening and the most incredible thing I’ve ever done.
What’s your favourite band, and why?
I have quite an eclectic music taste; I still listen to a lot of Queen but for something more contemporary I’ll go to Alt-J or Muse, both incredible live.
Which living person do you most admire, and why?
My dad. He worked tirelessly to support my family and is now enjoying a well-earned retirement with grandchildren (and a ride-on mower!).
Do you have a party trick, and if so, what is it?
Juggling. I’m completely self-taught but can only do three balls or clubs.
Name three new things/skills/sports you’d love to learn this year
Climbing, sailing and to improve my cooking skills!
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
My fiancé; she’s an early riser!
What are you most proud of in life?
I’m the first person in my family to get a Master’s degree.
If you had to cook dinner for any 3 people in the world, who would they be, and why?
David Attenborough for the intellectual insight, David Beckham because I genuinely think we could be friends, and Delia Smith, maybe she could help me in the kitchen!
To find out more about Tom’s expertise or to speak with a member of the Valuation team, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
