What 15 Years of Business Has Taught Me

As I reflect on the past 15 years of running Nicol & Co , I find myself looking back at the many lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the incredible support I’ve received along the way. From no stock in the window back in 2009, to being named UK Sales Agency of the Year in 2024, it has been a journey I never could have imagined when I first set out.

The Early Days

Setting up the business was a daunting challenge. I was just 25, and the banks didn’t want to know a young estate agent in the midst of the recession. But, thanks to the unwavering support of my family—especially my mum, dad & girlfriend (& now wife), I was able to launch Nicol & Co. with the goal of delivering exceptional service and being memorable for the right reasons.

In those early days, I wore all the hats: estate agent, admin, marketer, you name it. There were days when I would write up listings for large properties, only to lose everything because I forgot to hit "save" before my computer crashed. Mistakes like that shaped me, making me more meticulous and determined to improve.

The Support of Family and Mentors

Of course, none of this would have been possible without my family. My wife, Kate, and my children, Charlie and Maisie, have been my constant pillars of support, allowing me to travel abroad to learn from agents in America, attend events across the UK, and take on opportunities that required time away. They’ve always understood why I had to step away at times, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to work alongside my father, Richard Nicol , who serves as Group Finance Director for the business. Many people think he’s the boss, which always makes us laugh, but in truth, it’s a privilege to work with someone I’ve admired my whole life. His work ethic has been an inspiration, and I feel my success is, in many ways, a reflection of the lessons I’ve learned from him.

My mentors have been equally crucial to my journey. Kevin Ellis has been my go-to for all things land and new homes—his knowledge is unmatched. Tom Ferry, the leading estate agency trainer in the USA, has given me a different perspective and pushed me to think bigger. Sandra Hendrix, my weekly coach, has been a constant sounding board, helping me to clarify my personal and professional ambitions.

Challenges and Growth

The road hasn’t always been smooth. The pandemic was probably the biggest test we’ve faced. With the property market nearly at a standstill and a team of over 30 staff to support, we had to quickly adapt. Thankfully, in the weeks before the first lockdown I had been reading about and preparing a document that went on to become our Blueprint. Unlike others we had a clear vision and a plan in place. It gave our team the direction we needed during those uncertain times, and I’m proud to say that not only did we survive, but we thrived opening our third office in Malvern.

Through it all, I’ve learned to trust my team more and let them take the lead. In the early days, I knew every moving part because I was so close to the day-to-day operations. But over time, I’ve learned the value of stepping back and letting the incredible people I work with take ownership of their roles. My management style has evolved—now, I’m a "light touch," offering support and guidance, rather than micro-managing. I know that my team is as committed to delivering exceptional service as I am.

Giving Back to the Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been my involvement in the community. Years ago, I helped set up "Droitwich Means Business" with Vivian Findlay to help improve the local business landscape. Though the pandemic put an end to that initiative, my role as chairman of the Place Board for Wychavon District Council has allowed me to continue this work. We’ve already made significant improvements, including festoon lighting on the High Street, plans for health corridors, and some big exciting plans at the Lido.

I’m also proud of the work we do through Nicol & Co.'s Community Fund, where we've given away over £72,000 to support local projects. From schools to charities, we’ve had the chance to make a tangible difference, and that’s something I’m deeply passionate about. On a more personal note, I’ve been coaching the Droitwich U14s rugby team since they were under-5s, and watching them grow into young men has been a rewarding experience in itself.

Looking to the Future

As I sit here 15 years in, I never expected Nicol & Co to become the business it is today. I didn’t anticipate the size we’d grow to or the national—and now international—recognition we’ve earned. It’s been a journey full of highs and challenges, from market shifts to changing governments, and from low interest rates to high ones and back to the stable rates we see today. Through it all, our focus has remained the same: delivering remarkable service to our clients and staying true to our values.

I’m excited for what the next 15 years hold. Whether it's continuing to innovate within the business or furthering my work in the community, I know there’s plenty more to come. And to my team, my family, my mentors, and every client who has trusted us along the way—I say thank you. None of this would have been possible without you.

Here’s to the next chapter.