Andy Lay (MARLA) - Director
Email: andy@portlandestateagents.co.uk
Failure is never an option. I believe if I do a good job by other people they will automatically return. I’ve been an estate agent for over 20 years; I don’t suffer fools gladly, but know how to get the best out of people to succeed. Property is a people business; Darren and I have been very hands-on growing Portland Estate Agents, and building relationships with our clients has been a priority since day one. I’m an avid attender of 80s inspired Rewind Festivals, and also have challenged myself to climb a mountain.
Darren Somaiya (MARLA) - Director
Email: darren@portlandestateagents.co.uk
Clients are always our focus. I’ve been in estate agency for many years, the last 10 in this area. Ambition drove me to start Portland Estate Agents, and it also drives me to always want to get things right for our clients. I believe in being open and honest, and I pay a lot of attention to details in order to give each client a personal service. Andy and I complement each other well; having worked together for years prior to Portland, we know how to play to each other’s strengths. We still get excited over a deal, and that will never change. I enjoy going on holidays exploring new places and meeting new people, as well as spending time with family and friends.
Andrew Cumming - Lettings Manager
Email: andrew@portlandestateagents.co.uk
I started in lettings over 20 years ago. I’d always had an interest in property, sparked by my family’s visits to country houses and my friends’ passion for renovating medieval churches. After sending letters to every estate and letting agent in the area, a letting agent offered me a position as Junior Negotiator and I’ve worked my way up through corporate and independent agencies to Lettings Manager. My patience, diplomacy, and tenacity sit well in a lettings environment. I enjoy a game of golf when I can, but my new baby girl is where I devote my free time.
Jo Frati - Property Manager / Office Secretary
Email: jo@portlandestateagents.co.uk
I love organisation at work or at home. I like, or should I say need, to have things organised. I’m the one behind the scenes ensuring that no details are missed and keeping everything together. I’ve worked in property for 15 years, often in pressurised environments, but being the ‘central hub’ for Portland is where I’m supposed to be. I’m a mum of three and also an avid reader of the classics, and yes, one of my favourites is Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.