20 Questions

Hellyn Fairbrother is London and South East Regional Sales Manager for The Guinness Partnership. After studying English Language and English Literature at Goldsmiths University of London, Hellyn became a teacher. She loved her work but eventually decided to have a career change and over the last 18 years she has worked for several developers and housing associations. She now looks after a host of developments across London and the South East for Guinness Homes

With Hellyn Fairbrother

What room at home is your favourite?

My kitchen! I love cooking, entertaining or hosting and the kitchen is always the central hub of the home I think.

What’s your favourite gadget or technology at home?

I’m not massively into technology but I do watch CLICK in awe every week – I’d love to go to one of those tech shows in China to see the latest gadgets. At home, I’m still fascinated by Alexa – I think that VR has a real place in people’s lives particularly if they are on their own. I often laugh to myself at some of the things she picks up on.

What colour do you think everyone should have in their home?

It’s up to each individual, but I’m into muted tones – beiges, creams, oatmeals and fawns. I love a splash of primary colour though and sometimes I accessorise it with sunny yellow and dark navy blue. Your home is an extension of yourself – so go wild if that’s you!

Who would you invite over for a housewarming party if you could have any guests?

Ohh that’s so difficult! But definitely Alan Carr, Jeremy Clarkson, Chris Martin from Coldplay and Liam Neeson – can I put a politician in there also? Now that would be very interesting!!

What’s your favourite memory from your childhood home?

Christmas!! It was a magical time of family, food and pressies – I always remember walking down the stairs when it was still dark in the morning and we had this side window with frosted glass and it used to make the coloured Christmas lights really bright.

What is your favourite song and why?

So many songs evoke memories. Dancing in the Moonlight reminds me of my two lovely daughters jumping up and down on my bed when they were young. I love ELO, I am a big Bruno Mars fan and I have a thing about Afraid to Feel by LF System.

Would you rather have a garden or a balcony?

A garden every time – the sense of freedom and contentment it can bring is awesome. But balconies can be lovely too – particularly if they have a view. A balcony can be an extension to your home and you can dress it in an attractive way (if it's OK with the landlord!).

Do you prefer modern homes or period properties?

I’m in the new homes business so although I really prefer a period property (my favourite is Georgian) and all the history and features a period property has, I can see the merits of a new build property – particularly when it is encompassed in some really well-designed placemaking. These developments have a life of their own and I love the community and the inclusivity of them. Of course, there is the low maintenance and warranty that comes with a new build.

Would you rather have a library room or media room at home?

Library room all day long!! I still have books from when I was at university and I just can’t get rid of them!

Would you prefer a luxurious bathtub or a sumptuous shower?

Depends on my mood – I like the thought of a sumptuous bath but I get too bored and my book gets wet – so I tend to prefer having a shower but it needs to be a good size shower tray.

Would you rather live in the bustling city or in the country?

City – I like visiting places and going to bars, restaurants and food markets with my friends and family. I like the country but couldn’t live there – however, I love and appreciate nature.

If you were buying a property overseas, in what country would you buy a home?

I have lived abroad and it was a great experience – but something always pulled me home – my mum and my family. If I was pushed, probably Australia – it's an awesome place, but it’s too far away!

Would you rather have a bigger property or a better location?

Location, location, location every time!

What is one thing you couldn’t live without at home?

Only one!? I guess my TV.

What’s your favourite way to unwind at home after work?

I love to read and always have two books on the go at once, and I am a Netflix fiend! I particularly like crime documentaries.

What’s your favourite thing about your home?

Its location.

Where did you buy your first home?

I did a refurb of a Victorian flat in Deptford – it was blood, sweat and tears but I love doing refurbs – breathing life back into an old property is my favourite hobby.

What advice would you give a first time buyer?

If you like it and can afford it, do it! Don’t spend hours looking for perfection because nothing is completely perfect. Decide on your location and don’t jump about everywhere. Get a good financial adviser and solicitor who work with your housing association as this will speed things up for you, causing you the least amount of stress. Listen to the sales team – a good sales team (like mine!) will be there to steer you and support you through the journey.

What are your views on shared ownership?

It is a fantastic tenure – and I am not just saying that! It has come so far over the years and as a rule the housing association and developer offerings improve all the time. Long gone (thank goodness) is the "poor door"; it’s a near tenure-blind approach and so it should be – shared ownership owners have the same aspirations, demands and expectations as a market sale buyer.

What are your views on the housing market at the moment?

The horizon has a tempest brewing. The media are good at talking up a recession, but we are seeing a concerning number of product withdrawals from the lenders and buyers who haven’t experienced 6% upwards interest rates in their lifetimes are becoming edgy.