Introducing Marie Cook
4th March 2022
In this article we introduce you to Marie Cook, Senior Negotiator in GSB’s Property Team, and based in our North Berwick office.
What is your role in Garden Stirling Burnet and have you always worked in Property?
My role with GSB is as a Senior Negotiator, advising, communicating and supporting clients during the marketing process of their property and hopefully helping to ensure that they have as stress-free an experience as possible.
I have always had an involvement with property in some form and have worked with both Surveyors and Estate Agents over the years. I’m married to a Surveyor, so you can imagine what our dinner table conversations are like.
How long have you been with the firm?
Since September 2014 – almost eight years – how time flies!
How long have you lived in East Lothian?
I have lived in East Lothian for over 25 years and in North Berwick for 18 of these years.
What is the best thing about living/working in East Lothian?
There’s a wealth of reasons why I love East Lothian. It’s such a beautiful and inspirational part of Scotland to live, with its beautiful coastline and history, places of interest to visit, golf courses and fabulous restaurants – and not forgetting the friendly and welcoming people I’ve had the pleasure of associating with. My two daughters had a wonderful childhood growing up in North Berwick and they share that affection with me.
I love working in North Berwick as I have the opportunity to speak to people about my favourite place and subject – North Berwick and property! It’s difficult not to be enthusiastic about working here and I really enjoy sharing that with people.
What are your main hobbies/interests outside of work?
I love to travel when I can and spend time with family and socialising with friends outside of work.
What tips would you give to someone who is selling a house?
Present your property and garden in the best way possible and make sure that any outstanding repair works are taken care of – first impressions are everything.
Have a valuation of your property undertaken by GSB Properties. This will provide you with a good indication of value prior to having the Home Report prepared. We will also explain the marketing process and associated Legal and Estate Agency costs prior to placing your property on the market.
What tips would you give to someone buying a house?
Employ the services of a solicitor as you will require him/her to submit an offer on your behalf and who will also provide you with invaluable advice.
Speak to a Financial Advisor to establish how much you can borrow if you require a mortgage and obtain a decision in principle from a lender.
For someone who has not bought or sold property in some time, what are the main changes in legislation or the market that you should be aware of?
The Home Report has been a legal requirement since 2008 and provides information about the condition of a property to both purchasers and sellers. It is the responsibility of the seller to have this undertaken.
Following the Grenfell fire disaster in 2017, the Scottish Government have introduced new legislation this year requiring every home in Scotland to have interlinked fire alarms. This applies to all Scottish homes regardless of building type. It is the property owner’s responsibility for meeting this new standard.
What is the most commonly asked property related question that you get?
How much will I have to pay over Home Report valuation to secure a property? Impossible to answer.
And strictly from a personal point of view, do you prefer old properties or new properties?
I have a passion for property regardless of age.
Why should clients choose GSB Properties and what benefits can you bring? What sets you apart?
GSB Properties are a small, friendly and focussed team of people who will go that extra mile to make a client(s) experience that little more special.
Is there anything else that you would like us to convey to clients and potential clients?
Garden Stirling Burnet are always on hand to offer assistance in both a Legal and Estate Agency capacity. We are a long-standing company who provide a caring, personal and professional service, tailored to meet individual needs.
How can you be contacted?
At our North Berwick office on 01620 892307
Marie Cook
Senior Sales Negotiator
GSB PROPERTIES
North Berwick Office
8 Westgate
North Berwick
EH39 4AF
Categorised in: Estate Agency, Our Team
