Starting a new real estate business might seem like a bold move, especially in a market full of big-name agencies and fast-moving franchises. But for us, Laing & Co. was never about being bigger. It was about being better. It came from a belief that there was a kinder, more thoughtful way to do property management. One that focused on people, not just numbers.
The reality behind the industry
I spent years working in traditional real estate offices. Agencies where sales got the spotlight, and property management was seen as something to “get through.” Property managers were often overworked, expected to manage hundreds of properties at once, and constantly pressured to hit KPIs. There was little time to care, no space to pause, and rarely any understanding from leadership about what the role actually involved.
The job became reactive. You were always chasing, always putting out fires. And the clients, both tenants and landlords, felt that. It wasn’t just exhausting for staff. It impacted service, trust and long-term relationships. It started to feel like something was missing.
A different way to lead
I knew things could be done differently. I didn’t want to build just another agency. I wanted to create a place where people were treated like people. Where property management wasn’t seen as the back office function, but as the heart of the business. A space where team members felt supported and where clients felt genuinely cared for.
So I started Laing & Co. And from day one, the goal has been simple: to provide honest, high-touch, human service that makes owning an investment property feel easier, not harder.
A principal who manages
At Laing & Co., I’m not just the face of the business. I’m also the person on the phone, managing the inspections, speaking with tenants, and supporting landlords through every step. That means no handovers, no confusion, and no passing the buck. When you work with us, you’re dealing with someone who knows your property, your preferences, and your goals.
And because I’m involved in every property, our service never skips a beat. If someone from the team takes leave or moves on, there’s always continuity. You’re never left in the dark.
Building a team that cares
We’ve also built a small, loyal team who believe in doing things properly. People who genuinely care about their work, and about each other. We don’t run on fear or pressure. We don’t overload staff with unmanageable portfolios. Instead, we give our team the tools and time to do their jobs well, and that shows in the service our clients receive.
Our culture is warm, collaborative and respectful. There’s banter, there’s support, and there’s pride in what we do.
Service that adapts to you
Every client is different. Some want a quick handover, minimal emails, and total hands-off management. Others want regular updates, phone calls and help understanding the details. And that’s okay. We adapt. We take the time to listen and tailor our approach so that you get what you need, not just what’s standard.
That flexibility is a big part of what makes us different. Because we’re not trying to push everyone through the same system. We’re trying to build real relationships.
Expanding into sales with the same values
As we’ve grown, we’ve also reintroduced property sales to the business. But we’re doing it with the same intention and care that shaped our approach to management. For us, selling a home isn’t just about getting it off the market quickly. It’s about understanding the story behind the property and making sure every detail feels right, from the photography to the open home experience.
We’re not chasing numbers. We’re building trust.
Looking ahead
Laing & Co. isn’t trying to compete with the big agencies on size. We’re here to offer a boutique experience, backed by experience, systems and heart. As we grow, it will always be with intention. We only take on clients when we know we can maintain the quality and consistency that set us apart.
Our long-term goal is to stay personal, stay loyal to our values, and continue showing landlords and tenants that property management can feel different.
Final thoughts
Whether you’ve had a rough experience with a previous agency, or you’re simply looking for a more hands-on approach, Laing & Co. is here to help. We’re not flashy or fast-talking. We’re calm, consistent and committed to getting it right.
If you’re ready for a better property experience, we’d love to hear your story.
