Get to know our Lettings Manager: Meet Julie McNaughton | Tenant news

Find out what Lettings Manager Julie McNaughton does day-to-day in her role, where she likes to holiday (clue: it’s in the UK and has lakes) and which Habinteg scheme she’d like to live on.

How would you describe your job?

I manage the team that registers the applications for people applying to join the housing waiting list. I also review people’s applications for properties and complete their reference checks.

How long have you worked in the lettings industry?

I’ve worked in housing since I was 17, so that’s 36 years in total. I started my career working in housing for a local authority, which involved gving support with homelessness and housing. 

What’s the best thing about your job?

It’s really rewarding helping people with housing needs into a home that meets their household requirements. 

When are you most busy?

Our Lettings Team are a small team, and we’re busy most of the time dealing with new applications, allocating properties and working with our local authority partners.

How many homes do you visit on average per week?

I don’t get to visit many people in their homes, but I do travel to different Habinteg offices, as well as attend local authority meetings and visit empty properties awaiting tenants, on occasions.

How many tenants do you help on average per week?

The team gets around 65 applications from new people applying for housing per week. 

Which scheme in your region would you like to live on and why?

I’d love to live in the North Shields scheme because it’s close to the sea and I love the beach. 

You’ve got a bonus holiday for being a great Lettings Manager – how do you spend it?

It would be at Malham Cove - a large, curved limestone formation in North Yorkshire - as it’s one of my favourite places.

Are you a dog, cat or a rabbit person?

This is a difficult one as I would like all of them as pets. If I had to choose, it would be a cat because I already have two and they’re characters.

What’s your favourite Friday night takeaway?

I like a nice curry.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I’m a morning person; I get up really early, not sure if that’s my age, but it sounds better if I say I like to see the sunrise!

Where is your favourite place to go on holiday?

The Lake District as I love to walk, and the views are amazing.

What’s your idea of a good neighbour?

Being kind and considerate and treating people how you’d like to be treated.

If you could choose, who would you most like to live next door to, and why?

It would be Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds because he’s good looking and funny!