MEET OUR TEAM
Your local agents, each bringing a blend of professionalism and personality to ensure your property journey is not just successful, but enjoyable too.
Co-Founder & Managing Director / MARLA NAEA
Jonathan
Jonathan has been working in estate agency for over 17 years since launching a pioneering, forward-thinking new agency in 2007. This agency now rebranded as Southgate Estates, centres around ethical values with integrity and professionalism at the heart of the business.
Before moving into estate agency, Jonathan worked as a chartered engineer in a leading automotive research consultancy, working on projects to reduce emissions from passenger cars. However, his poor experiences in buying and selling properties inspired Jonathan to change industries and set up a truly different kind of estate agency where customers are always treated with honesty and fairness. His passion is to support and guide people through the processes involved so that their experience is as positive and stress-free as possible.
Co-Founder & Director
Laura
Laura’s career in Estate Agency started in 2007 when she left her former profession as a primary school teacher to join her husband Jonathan in setting up Southgate Estates. Laura was the company’s senior valuer for more than ten years, although she now spends most of her time at Southgate coordinating the team as well as working in her other business, www.self-worth.co.uk.
Through Southgate’s involvement with the Kira Farm Training Centre in Uganda, Laura has developed strong links with the charity Amigos and regularly takes teams from the UK to Africa on teaching trips.
Sales Progression Manager
Kate
With a decade of experience as a property lawyer, Kate has worked at Southgate Estates as our sales progressor since 2009. She works closely with solicitors to ensure that the sales process progresses smoothly and gives regular updates to our clients.
Kate’s patience, wisdom, and ability to see things from different perspectives allow her to support and care for both our vendors and buyers during what can sometimes be an uncertain and stressful time. She loves to see keys being handed over and our clients happily settled in their new homes.
Property Marketing Specialist
Jessica
As one of Southgate Estates’ longest-standing and most experienced employees, Jessica takes the lead in listing and marketing the properties entrusted to us. Her creative flair and stunning photography ensure she captures and shows off every property to its best advantage. She loves showcasing the things that make a property a home and produces quality videos guaranteeing prospective buyers and tenants see all a property has to offer before they have even walked through the door!
In addition to listing our properties, Jessica manages our social media marketing and negotiates sales.
Sales & Lettings Consultant
Josh
Josh has taken a keen interest in property from a young age and was eager to start a job in the industry as soon as he left school. His passion for property is evident in all he does, as is his knowledge and understanding of Exeter and the local market.
Josh’s main role at Southgate Estates is conducting viewings and negotiating sales. He is friendly and personable and particularly enjoys being out on appointments where he can meet new people and spend time advising them and helping them find their perfect home. Back in the office, he deals with inquiries and continues to build relationships with our clients by keeping them informed and updated.
Lettings Operations Manager
Max
Max is our Lettings Operations Manager and an integral part of the team, ensuring everything behind the scenes runs smoothly and efficiently. Drawing on his previous experience in the property industry, he plays a key role in supporting landlords, tenants, and colleagues throughout the lettings process.
Known for his organised approach, attention to detail, and willingness to help, Max oversees the day-to-day operations of the lettings department, helping to ensure tenancies progress seamlessly from start to finish. Whether coordinating important processes, managing compliance requirements, or providing support to clients, he is dedicated to delivering a professional and positive experience for everyone involved.
Max’s proactive attitude and commitment to high standards make him a valued member of the team and a trusted point of contact for both landlords and tenants.
Sales & Lettings Associate
Roseanna
Roseanna has a passion for delivering excellent customer service and enjoys helping people throughout every stage of their property journey. Friendly and approachable, she is committed to providing a positive experience for both landlords, tenants, buyers and sellers alike.
Roseanna’s main role at Southgate Estates is conducting sales and lettings viewings, assisting clients with enquiries and progressing rental applications. She enjoys meeting new people and helping them find a property that suits their needs, while ensuring the process runs as smoothly as possible. Back in the office, she works closely with applicants, landlords and tenants, keeping them informed and supported every step of the way.
Office Entertainer / BaRK Woo-F
Barney
Barney warmly welcomes visitors to our office and is always happy to share his treats with other dogs who pop in to say hello. Probably the most popular team member, he provides lots of cuddles and affection to his colleagues.
