Stornoway-born Debbie McCathie moved to the Scottish capital for work over 20 years ago and she’s never looked back. As Head of Residential Conveyancing at Gilson Gray, she now manages one of the largest residential conveyancing departments in the country. Here she talks about her motivation, inspiration and favourite places in Edinburgh.
What attracted to you to the legal process of purchasing or selling a property? Residential conveyancing was my main focus throughout the course of my legal traineeship which was with a small firm in Ayr. I assigned the last six months of my traineeship to a firm in Edinburgh where I carried on specialising in it. I love it. I am motivated by the buzz and fast pace of conveyancing but, more than anything, it’s great working with clients and building relationships.
How do you make a difference? I understand the importance of speaking to people and making time for them. At work, I will pick up the phone to clients in order to build a relationship with them as opposed to relying on emails. I pride myself in making the client journey a personal one. I also endeavour to speak with various members of my team, regardless of where they are based, as often as possible to check in on them and to ensure they feel engaged and valued.
Is it a good time to buy a property? Potentially, yes, as we are seeing generally less fierce competition in the Edinburgh market. There are, however, some properties still attracting quite a lot of interest and going to closing dates.
I also think it remains a good time to sell. There’s been a lot of pent-up demand in the property market with buyers struggling to buy due to a lack of stock. If more properties come on the market, then I do believe there are still buyers who are keen to buy despite the hike in interest rates, but sellers will need to have realistic expectations when it comes to a potential sale price. Prices have definitely dropped across the country over the past few months.
Who inspires you? My dad. He had a very successful career in Senior Management having left school very young with few qualifications. His success was simply down to hard work. He was an honest, fair and inspiring boss to many people.
What are you most proud about? Truthfully, my family. My husband and our two sons. We have great fun together and that is special. I am also very proud of my team at Gilson Gray. They all work very hard to support me and each other in delivering our best service to clients.
Your top tip for working mums and/or ladies looking to run their own business? Be resilient, be honest, be a good communicator, always have a laugh with your colleagues and “just keep swimming”!
Fun fact? I met my husband on holiday in Faliraki and we got engaged four months later on Hogmanay outside a pub in Ballachulish, just a few minutes before the Millennium!
Favourite place for drinks? Pickles on Broughton Street. Amazing wine - and nibbles!
Best restaurant in Edinburgh? I love The Ivy. The food is always amazing, as is the atmosphere and location too!
Where you’ll find me at the weekend? In my garage on my spin bike, visiting my mum and dad or enjoying a nice glass of white wine or two with family and friends!
Debbie McCathie is Head of Residential Conveyancing at egg partner Gilson Gray. She assists in advising on properties people are interested in offering on and with any legal questions regarding the conveyancing process. If you’d like to get in touch with Debbie, email [email protected] or visit their website. To find out who you can redeem exclusive egg offers, including a £400 saving when you sell with Gilson Gray, click here.
