Getting to know Matt Jacobs

Why I became an Estate Agent:

I grew up knowing Jacobs Steel as my father and Derek Steel founded the company shortly after I was born. When I first learnt to drive, I helped out as a viewings guide on Saturdays and in the summer holidays! After travelling the world in my early 20’s, I returned to Worthing realising estate agency was all I knew and it was what I enjoyed, but I had a desire to learn the profession in a faster paced market. I relocated to London and joined a large estate agent in Notting Hill. I loved the fact that no day was the same and the job offered variation whilst meeting all sorts of different people. I think I was always destined to do sales and meet new people, so combining this with my interest in property was ideal!

In 2008 I relocated to Sydney, Australia and ran a sales business which was a similar size to Jacobs Steel. In 2017 I relocated back to my hometown with my young family and spent a year in Jacobs Steel before taking over as Managing Director with Patrick Barton.

What I love to do:

Most of my spare time is spent with my two young daughters and wife, but when I do get any time to myself it’s easy for me to fill it! …. Cycling, running, gym, golfing and watching Brighton at the Amex. If the opportunity arises for a ski or surf trip, I can never say no!

One tip you would give a buyer or seller:

The buying and selling process can be stressful and emotional at times.  I am a big believer in ‘if it’s meant to be it will be’. That said, if you need to sell to buy and you’re convinced a move is the right thing to do, you’re better to source a buyer first.  This means there is less chance of you missing out on the ideal next property as you’re in a ‘proceedable’ position and it will allow you to better negotiate your purchase with real figures.  This can work smoothly when your buyer is fully aware of your situation and is told it could take time for you to find the right next home.