McMillan 10 year anniversary

This March McMillan Estate Agents will be celebrating ten years of business and ten years of giving back to the community which has helped make them such a success.

Founded by Jim McMillan in 2002, McMillan Estate Agents has grown over the past decade to become one of south-east Antrim's leading estate agents. Jim already had 19 years experience in the industry in Newtownabbey but wanted to establish a company which filled a gap that he felt existed at the time. Honesty, integrity and respect aren't often words associated with estate agency and Jim believed that there was room in the market for a company which offered these qualities combined with a professional yet personal service. Ten years in business and sales have validated his vision as the company continues to thrive and expand in its Glengormley premises despite a prolonged period of difficult economic conditions.

Over the years Jim has invested heavily in his company in order to provide a professional service and keep up with changes in technology. Jim's commitment to his staff is exemplified by the low staff turnover and friendly, upbeat mood when you enter the office. This commitment was recognised in 2010 when McMillan Estate Agents gained Investors in People accreditation. Another area which has benefitted greatly from investment is technology: the world has moved on considerably since 2002 and the hefty books detailing offers, sales and viewings have been replaced with state of the art software which allows information to be recorded, stored and shared among staff leading to a smoother, more consistent service. The office walls are lined with high-gloss brochures and recent investment in the website has created a smart, user-friendly interface ideal for the modern market. McMillan's commitment to professional service and high standards is recognised and regulated by The Property Ombudsman and they are also proud to be members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

McMillan Estate Agents are acutely aware that the success of the business is down to continued support from the Newtownabbey community and Jim is always keen to show his appreciation by giving back to the local community. McMillan contribute money from each sale to their designated charities - Salvation Army, NI Hospice, St Vincent de Paul and the Simon Community - as well supporting local schools, churches, community groups and individuals. Over the past 10 years the company has donated in excess of ?50,000 to local charities. McMillan are members of the Glengormley Chamber of Commerce and Newtownabbey Business Network, and Jim is also keen to help young people starting out in their careers by offering work placements to school and college students so that they can become the business leaders of tomorrow.

These are challenging times for companies, particularly those in the housing industry, but one of McMillan's strengths is its ability to evolve and adapt to survive in a changing market. In 2008 they opened a rental department which has grown rapidly and continues to expand. Then in 2011, against the current market trend, Jim formed McMillan Blair Chartered Surveyors with Richard Blair in order to expand the range of current services available. As the 10 year anniversary approaches McMillan are looking forward to what the next decade will bring.

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