For most of our clients, being a landlord is not their main area of focus or expertise.  Often a by-product of an impressive career in something else, an investment for future generations or a diversification of a pension. 

Few have the time or willpower to apply themselves fully to understanding the world of property rentals in detail (that is what we are here for, after all).  Mary-Ann Wingfield, however, is one such person, relentlessly overseeing a portfolio of at times up to 35 properties in Central London and 7 in the north of England, she has unparalleled in-depth knowledge and a systematic, service driven method for managing her own portfolio.

Opening her first business offering a “subscription property maintenance service” (nowadays called property management!) in 1962 on fashionable Beauchamp Place, SW3, Mary-Ann was already breaking the mould for women in business at a time when such a term would be met with derision.  The company was called London Household Services and was an idea that Mary Ann brought back from a trip to the States.  The business trundled along for a few months until a big freeze in the winter of 62/63 sent the phones ringing off the hook.  The rest was history.

Since then, a phenomenal career spanning sixty years and several industries has been masterfully navigated, with many a hiccup along the way.

Mary Ann is an entrepreneur, multiple business owner, author, jewellery expert, sports art curator, prolific London landlord, wife, mother, granny, and cherished client.

We asked a few questions to better understand one of our most successful and experienced employers;

What made you become a landlord?

After the 1985 Landlord and Tenant Act, which gave fairer terms to both landlord and tenant.  I saw an opportunity to obtain better access to finance and to diversify my investment portfolio.

When did you buy your first property?

I bought my first rental invest in 1985 in an auction in Somerset.  It was a studio flat!  I bought it because I saw a huge demand from tenants, and it was the only thing I could afford.  It was in Bruton, which many people know is a now a foodie’s paradise and creative hub.  At the time, I felt that in this area there was real opportunity for growth.

What did you learn from opening your first business in 1962?

To find the humour in every situation however dark and remain positive.  In the winter of 62/63, I experienced a lack of tradesmen that made today’s challenges in London laughable.  With humour and a positive attitude, we always found a way through.

What has been your most successful venture over the last 60 years?

I don’t really see life like that, with 280 successful property deals under my belt I tend to take every day as it comes.  There have been so many successes and a few failures, but I find it more important to stay grounded and live in the moment as much as I can.  I do love pulling off deals against huge odds though!

And your least successful…..

I lost a huge amount of money on the sale of a house called the Borogove, which probably speaks volumes since the Borogove appears in the nonsense poem, “Jabberwocky” by Lewis Carroll.  I fell in love with the name and the overall idea of the house and thought it would be a good fit for an elderly family member but didn’t research it enough in detail.  I overpaid, it was ugly to most people, and it really didn’t fit aesthetically in the area and my relative hated it!  Note to self, always keep the brain engaged.

How have you remained so driven with all the challenges that life can throw up?

Fortunately, I was born with determination and energy and always must be working on a project which drives me forward.

Have you ever been a tenant?

Yes, between 2012 & 2015.  It was in Chelsea, while we waited for our new home overlooking the Thames to be refurbished.  We had the toughest landlord!  He went to town with the inventory clerk on the check-out – far worse than I have ever been, and I take pride in being meticulous.  But some people are just like that…  It was a very good experience to be on the other side of things for a change to see what tenants go through.

What made you decide to invest in London property?

I felt I could make a difference to the London tenant experience and provide a good service as a landlord.  I also saw an opportunity to make some great money…and I love London.

What are your top tips for landlords?

Read everything and make sure you take full responsibility as a landlord.  Don’t take anything personally and most importantly be a professional.

What are your top tips for life?

Keep smiling, keep positive. No. matter. What.  Negativity is a killer.

How long would you advise that an investor hold their rental property for?

I usually hold each of my investment properties for about 10 years.

What are your tips for managing a property well?

Meticulous attention to detail.  Build a positive and professional rapport with your tenants without being too matey.  You’ve got to put the work in.