In Conversation with

Be yourself - says Steph Hilton-Turvey, Associate Director at HM Referencing. Steph was promoted to her current role in November 2020 and has shone at the local firm since joining them in March 2018. HM Referencing offer a first class tenant referencing service. The peace of mind to know that your tenants have been thoroughly screened. Steph continues: Your alarm goes off… I’m up early because I prefer not to rush in the morning. I drink coffee, pray, eat, and start to think about what the day might hold. These habits, along with walking to the office rather than driving, set me up for a good day. How did you start doing what you’re doing? Though I only started in a temporary interim role, it wasn’t long until I accepted a permanent position at Hazelton Mountford to manage the team of referencing account handlers and day-to-day business. The values and culture of Hazelton Mountford line up with my own, so it was an easy transition. Your typical day… The answer to this question would vary depending on the season.

I catch up with our agents and keep up to date with the lettings industry and changes in the market. Processes are reviewed regularly, and we work with our software developer friends at bluebox to enhance the platform and continue innovating. 1-to-1s with each account handler are an important part of the month, giving them space to talk about how they’re doing and voice any ideas about how we can do things differently. I’m very handson and will always step in to assist with day-to-day referencing where needed. You’re responsible for … We’re responsible for making sure that the UK’s letting agents are served with the highest standard of robust tenant reference checks. Over the last 9 years, we’ve combined the benefits of digital and traditional referencing – Fully online for a streamline and efficient service, with professionals looking after each agent as their dedicated account handler. What worries you? As a company of let property insurance and referencing experts, we are concerned at the number of new companies that don’t do the thorough work that we believe is needed to best reduce risk for agents and landlords. The vetting element of the tenant find process is important and corners can’t be cut. What’s on your to do list? I’ve done a lot of live presenting on YouTube during the pandemic, and I’d now like to get involved with podcasts. If anyone is reading this and would like a guest, get in touch! Biggest bugbear? Gossip and dishonouring chat. What you wanted to be when you grew/grow up? As a child, I wanted to be an architect and still have an appreciation for design and architecture. I would draw out floorplans on squared paper, create the rooms on Paint, then select furniture from an Argos catalogue! Where can you mostly be found after work?

Depending on the season, we might be out in the countryside, having dinner with friends or crashing on the sofa in front of a good documentary. Best piece of advice you’ve received? Be yourself. What’s next? How do people find out about you? Find us at https:// hmreferencing.co.uk/ and connect with me on LinkedIn: https:// www.linkedin.com/in/ shiltonturvey.