In this instalment of our lockdown related blogs, we spoke to Rachael Gent who recently started her own firm called Gent Law. They specialise in conveyancing and offer an outstanding service and a fresh modern approach to all your property law needs.

linkedin.com/in/rachaelgentconveyancingexpert

Can you tell us a bit about your background, and your role at Gent Law?

I am the Managing Director at Gent Law. We opened our first office on 2nd March 2020.

I am a Solicitor with over 15 years experience in the Conveyancing industry. Starting as an office junior and working my way up and studying at the same time has given me a wealth of experience at every level.

If you hadn’t been a Lawyer, what would you have done?

I would have loved to have been a Doctor if not a Lawyer ( my sister is one) but my brain is not wired that way- I attempted a Biology A Level and although I did pass, my talents clearly were in other areas!

How’s business at the moment?

It’s strange being such a new firm of Solicitors we are almost in a little bubble and haven’t had a lot of the upheaval that other firms have experienced with lots of staff members and logistically a lot to get organised in a short space of time. We have managed to keep on top of our case load and continue to take on new instructions but it would be nice to have some level of normality, whatever that is going to be very soon.

In the Covid19 era, what is the main challenge in residential property?

Understandably, everyone has reacted to Covid in their own way and some estate agents/solicitors have taken a view not to progress matters until it has blown over. Those transactions are tough because being the other side, we cannot do anything at all other than wait. It’s hard to not have a timescale and give your clients some assurance of when they will be able to move.

What opportunities can you see? 

It has been a great opportunity to really work on the small things that often get lost when you start a business. I have really taken some time to get to grips with our system to make sure it operates how we want it to but also really strengthen our social media and website content for clients.

How have you found lockdown?

As the firms SRO I am continuing to come to the office to take delivery of post and ensure files and accounts are up to date. So currently typing in a very empty office solo! In the afternoon I go home and set up in my dining room whilst juggling a baby and a 5 year old.

How have you kept in touch with colleagues?

Yes I speak to my fabulous colleague Clare Sheldon on the phone on an almost a daily basis. It doesn’t have to be about work, but its nice to check in and see what they are up to!

What about clients?

Yes I speak to clients daily, they can call the office and will come through to my mobile phone or they can email at anytime.

What are the three things you miss most from your pre lockdown life?

Seeing our wider family for sure, the freedom to just have a day out or go for a spot of lunch and definitely the day to day in the office.

What do you think the biggest change will be working life post lockdown?

I think it will be for a period of time a very chicken and egg scenario. But most businesses in this industry will be geared up for working from home so its going to be a change to the 9-5 we are all used to…. It may not be a bad thing!

What’s the first thing you’ll do when lockdown is lifted?

We have a few family celebrations that we have had to miss due to Covid and my brother’s wedding is planned later this year. I would love a nice get together with our family as soon as we are allowed.

What restaurant you will visit?

I have been making a list of events for myself and my partner once lockdown is over! We figure that the grandparents have some babysitting to do! We will be going to Fazenda in Birmingham as our first stop as we had planned to do this prior to lockdown!