JLL's Titi Ogunwuyi on being a mentor for women in the sector and how there is a need for more affordable homes in high value areas

From an early age, the expectation was that I would become a doctor, following the family trend. By the time I completed sixth form, I was certain that I didn’t enjoy science and that medicine was not for me.

I had always been attracted to the built environment and would find myself naturally drawn to property related documentaries. Although my father is a doctor, he invested in bricks and mortar – this gave me an initial understanding of a landlord’s role.

My property journey started after I graduated from university with a degree in Estate Management and started my career in the commercial sector. In order to gain more experience I quickly rotated to the Affordable Housing team prior to undertaking the RICS’ APC. My initial plan was to work in this team for six months and revert to the commercial sector. However, I found myself keen to learn how affordable housing was interlinked with the planning system and the vital role it played in the Government’s agenda.

I’m now a Director within the Affordable Housing team at JLL, specialising in valuations relating to development sites on behalf of RPs and local authorities to facilitate acquisitions and, where required, disposals. This has given me exposure to a diverse client base most of which have resulted in long-standing relationships.

With the ongoing shortage of housing and the issue around affordability, there is a need for the construction of more affordable housing units in high value areas. I believe that a good mix of subsidised rent and intermediate housing alongside private housing helps create well-balanced communities.

I feel an enormous sense of pride each time I go past a completed affordable housing development that I have been involved in – it feels incredibly rewarding to be part of a sector that is devoted to addressing the UK housing need. I feel like I have an opportunity to impact lives positively whilst enabling the housing provision agenda.

My role also allows me to be a mentor to those who are new to the sector and I particularly enjoy working with aspiring female colleagues.

On balance, I am grateful to be part of one of the most established Affordable Housing teams in the UK. On a personal note, I am proud to be the first person in my family to venture into this sector which has given my children vast insight into the property industry.

Get in touch

Titi Ogunwuyi, Director – Affordable Housing

T +44 (0)207 087 5975

M +44 (0)7500 104470

[email protected]

jll.co.uk/residential