From Redundancy to Reinvention in Estate Agency

In our Life of a Self-Employed Estate Agent series, we explore the personal journeys of individuals who’ve taken the leap into self-employment in Estate Agency and built fulfilling careers on their own terms. This week, we’re introducing Sinead, a dedicated estate agent working across Great Barr and surrounding areas of Birmingham.

Sinead’s story is one of resilience, local pride, and the pursuit of balance between work and family life.

From Redundancy to Reinvention

Sinead’s career began in a corporate estate agency setting, where she spent several years learning the ropes of the property industry. But when her branch was shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, she was faced with a pivotal choice. Rather than retreat, she saw an opportunity.

“I got made redundant at the end of Covid… so I decided to take the leap and become self-employed.”

That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter, one where she now oversees every aspect of her business, from valuations and marketing to sales progression and conveyancing. With over seven years in the industry and a deep understanding of the local market, Sinead has built something truly her own.

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Deep Roots in Great Barr

What sets Sinead apart is her connection to the community she serves. Great Barr isn’t just her patch, it’s home.

“My children went to school here. I went to school here. I know to keep it local.”

Having worked in the area for five years (after starting out in Walsall), she knows the people, the streets, the schools, and the sense of community that ties it all together. Whether it’s the local football clubs, theatre groups, or the friendly faces you bump into at the shops, Great Barr is a place where people look out for one another—and Sinead embodies that spirit in her work.

Balancing Business and Family

As a mum of four, three girls and a boy, ranging in age from 23 down to 2, Sinead’s days are always full. But, being self-employed has allowed her to take control of her schedule in ways she never could before.

“My 16-year-old plays football Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and I haven’t missed a game in three years.”

From school runs to match days, Sinead structures her work around her children, not the other way around. Instead of sitting in an office for hours on end, often with little to do, she’s now able to manage her time more efficiently and be truly present, both for her clients and her family.

A Passion Shared with Her Children

Outside of work, Sinead is a passionate football fan. A proud Aston Villa season ticket holder, she often takes her older children to Villa Park or Bescot Stadium to support the teams.

“We also support Tamworth, my daughter plays for them, and they’ve just been promoted, which is brilliant.”

It’s this blend of professional drive and personal connection that defines Sinead’s approach to life. Whether she’s showing homes or cheering from the sidelines, she’s all in.

Why Self-Employment Works for Sinead

Looking back, Sinead knows she made the right decision by going self-employed. The flexibility has transformed her day-to-day life, offering a healthier work-life balance and more meaningful time with her children.

“Now, if I need to finish work at 4:00 to make sure everyone’s fed and get over to football training – I can. Before, I’d be stuck in the office until half five with no real flexibility.”

She admits that the shift was an adjustment at first, no longer having that rigid routine or corporate structure. But in the end, she found that freedom far outweighed the familiarity.

Her Advice: Just Go For It

Sinead’s message for anyone considering self-employment is simple but powerful:

“Believe in yourself. You’ve got to take that leap of faith.”

Her story is proof that when you back yourself and stay connected to what matters most – family, community, and purpose. You really can shape a career that fits your life.

Thinking about making the leap to self-employment in estate agency? Take a page from Anna’s book and embrace flexibility, prioritise service, and make your business work for you.