Property People: Aimee Howard

In Leeds, within the last 10 years, there have been very few city centre apartment developments and because of this, it is emerging as a key hotspot for build-to-rent developers, as investors are taking advantage of a supply and demand imbalance for good quality purpose-built apartments.

What is your favourite building in the region and why?

One of my favourite buildings in the region is Victoria Quarter in Leeds. It is home to many premium retailers within an architecturally significant building which is beautiful and iconic to the city. Of course, a personal favourite due to my love of shopping.

If you could change one thing to improve the property industry in this region, what would it be?

Prior to the current pandemic, I believe flexible working was negatively stigmatised by many in the property industry. I personally have been fortunate enough to work with managers that have understood the benefits that flexible working has on productivity and wellbeing. Following the pandemic, I hope that the key benefits of both methods of working are recognised and normalised within the industry.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

During my time at Moda Living, I was fortunate enough to be involved in the regeneration of Quarry Hill now known as SOYO Leeds. My involvement predominantly related to the development of 515 private rented sector apartments. I particularly enjoyed working on this project due to Quarry Hill’s historical significance, being the former home of the UK’s largest social housing complex, and also the prospect of being involved in the development of a new neighbourhood in Leeds city centre. I look forward to seeing this project come to fruition in the next few years.

Who do you most admire in property in Yorkshire?

Whilst I don’t have an individual that I specifically admire in property, there are a number of very successful property people that I have been fortunate enough to work alongside. My desire to work in the industry began at a young age due to my family’s involvement in renovations and self-build projects.