James Carver has been a director at Carvers since 2009, a family-run business that has provided property services since 1991. Carvers offers a wide range of services, including residential sales, lettings, property management, and commercial property consultancy. The group also includes Carver Commercial, which specialises in chartered surveying and commercial property services.
What was your first job? (and how much did it pay?) My first job was in the family estate agency around the age of 12 in the mid-90s. My brother Henry and I helped produce property sales details during school holidays - developing film, printing text, sticking on photos, stapling, and mailing to buyers. More holiday club than hard graft! My first ‘proper’ job was as a pot wash at the George and Dragon in Heighington at 14. I’d get about £30 a week in a brown envelope. It was a crash course in kitchen life - and language! I’ve also plucked turkeys, driven combines, worked in bars, been a chauffeur, model, babysitter, rugby coach, plant nursery worker, and silver service waiter. Safe to say I’m now settled in property.
What is the best advice or support you’ve been given in business? In my early days as a junior estate agent, I was told: if you’re offered a cup of tea in someone’s home, always accept. It wasn’t about the tea – it was about taking time to listen, understand, and build trust. That advice stuck with me, in business and in life. We’re all busy, but making time for others is always worthwhile.
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What are the main changes you’ve seen in your business/sector, and what challenges are you facing? There’s been a major shift in how we present and market properties. Photography is still key, which is why we have a full-time photographer and content producer, but video, social media reels and presenter-led content now play a huge role in boosting exposure. The biggest challenge we face is that estate agency remains unregulated - anyone can set up without experience or qualifications, which is a real concern. We ensure all our team are Propertymark qualified or working towards it. We’re hopeful the Regulation of Property Agents (ROPA) will soon make qualifications mandatory - it’s only right when we’re handling what’s often our clients’ biggest tax-free asset.
What would your dream job be? A fishing guide in New Zealand. I love fly fishing but don’t get to do enough of it. I’ve been lucky enough to visit three times - the fishing there is incredible. Standing in a clear river or stream, surrounded by stunning scenery, with the sole focus of presenting a fly to a monster trout… it’s just incredible.
What advice would you give to someone starting a career in your sector? Have great conversations that add value. Everyone loves talking about property and local prices – we’re all a bit nosy! When people find out what you do, they’ll likely ask about the market, especially in their area. It’s a great chance to show your local knowledge – what’s selling, what’s not. Ask plenty of questions, but also master the art of listening.
What makes the North East a great place to do business? There are many reasons, though I’m biased having only worked in the North East. The people are friendly, the location is fantastic, and start-up costs are lower than in many other regions. Darlington, where we’ve been for 34 years, has a strong, supportive business community, and we’re proud to be part of it.
How important is it for business to play a role in society? Business plays a huge role in society. As owners, we have the chance to make a real impact. As estate agents, we’re visible through sold signs, social media, and high street offices, giving us a platform to promote local events and charities. We’re strong advocates of our community, offering our team volunteering hours for causes they care about. We’re part of Darlington Cares, nominated for the Stronger Communities Awards, and host Our Darling Town, a podcast highlighting local businesses and charities. Strong community ties benefit our brand, but most importantly, giving back is the right thing to do.
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Outside of work, what are you really good at? I’m a pretty good cook and always wanted to be a chef growing up. I also enjoy messing around with a diablo or juggling balls, but I’d class myself as amateur - not quite ready to run away to the circus yet! I like to think I’m a good husband and father to my three kids, which is the most important role I have.
Who would play you in a film about your life? I’m notoriously useless when it comes to films and actors - I’m not a big TV or cinema fan. I get told I look like Louis Theroux, which I think is nonsense, and he’s not even an actor! Let’s go with Hugh Grant - a bit posh with floppy hair.
Which three people would you invite to a dinner party, and why? Louis Theroux - to finally prove to my brother I don’t look like him! I’m sure he’d have some incredible stories to tell. My late grandfather, Dr Harry Carver - a warm, funny gentleman. He passed away when I was in my early 20s, and I’d love to share a G&T with him and have him meet his great-grandchildren. Donald Trump - so Louis can give him a grilling, and I can put lots of salt in his soup.