Moving home can feel like a whirlwind - viewings, valuations, negotiations and endless decisions… But behind every smooth sale is a team of people who know the market inside out and genuinely care about getting the best result for you.
At Niksen Property in Stockbridge, the focus isn’t just on bricks and mortar, it’s on people. Relationships come first. Every client is carefully guided through what can be one of life’s biggest transitions. They take on the hard work so you can focus on the next chapter.
We caught up with two of the women who make it happen every day: Claire Barrett and Rebecca Booth.
Claire Barrett, Valuation Specialist
With over 20 years in the property world, Claire has pretty much seen it all, from luxury London homes to rural Scottish hideaways. She grew up near Perth and, after living in several places, put down roots in Portobello, where she’s enjoyed seaside living for the past 14 years. Part of Niksen Property since day one, Claire works closely with sellers to help them understand the value of their home and how to present it at its very best.
What’s your role at Niksen?
"I visit potential sellers to advise on their property’s value, explain the selling process, and share why Niksen might be the right choice for them. Because we’re a small team, I also conduct viewings, prepare sales documents, take calls, and do plenty of networking around Edinburgh. No two days are ever the same."
How long have you been with Niksen Property?
"Since the very beginning! I met the owner Ben Di Rollo early in the planning process and our vision for what an estate agency could be was perfectly aligned."
Your career journey in a nutshell?
"I began in London estate agency (lured by the offer of a company car!) and worked in Mayfair, where I saw some truly incredible homes. I then sidestepped into property renovations and working on some fabulous homes including one particularly unique project for a client with two wives - the goal was to make both feel equally valued, and we succeeded!
When I returned to Scotland in 2005, I worked as a property buyer for overseas investors, dealing with a very different style of property to the Mayfair market. Since then, I’ve worked as an estate agent in both city and rural areas, continuing to take on renovation projects for clients and myself."
What makes Niksen Property different?
"We treat every sale as unique and tailor our approach to each client. For us, it’s about people first, the relationships we build are just as important as the homes we sell."
Where do you live and what do you love about it?
"Portobello. We moved into our current home two years ago when it could only be described as a wreck! We knew the location would make it worthwhile, so we got stuck in and have renovated most of it. The kitchen is still on our to-do list. My bedroom has amazing views of the beach and is the perfect spot for a morning coffee, people-watching, or just taking in the drama of the sea."
Your dream home?
"I love my current home and have plans to make it even better. That said, I can imagine one day moving to the countryside - somewhere like Dunkeld, with its beautiful woodland walks and serenity. I’m aware the grass often seems greener, but daily life there would likely feel quite different from a holiday."
Best thing about Edinburgh?
"There is so much to love about Edinburgh. I live by the seaside, but a 20-minute bus journey takes me into the heart of the capital and the world’s largest arts festival during the summer months. And the architecture never gets old."
Top tip for sellers?
"Listen to your agent and don’t be offended by honest feedback. Small tweaks in presentation can make a huge difference. Remember, buyers want to like your home; your job is to help them by showing it at its best. And one extra tip I love - make sure your home smells pleasant! As a fellow egg once told me, you can fancy someone from across the room, but if you get close and they don’t smell nice, the attraction fades quickly. The same applies to houses."
Rebecca Booth, Sales Specialist
Originally from Huddersfield in Yorkshire, Rebecca now happily calls Leith home. “I love the location. It’s close to The Shore, where there are plenty of cafés and restaurants. It feels like its own little hub, with everything you need and a real community feel,” she says.
With 14 years’ experience in property, Rebecca joined Niksen Property when it first opened, drawn to its client-first ethos. She handles everything from arranging valuations and viewings to creating listings and negotiating offers, always aiming to make the selling process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Why did you choose to work with Niksen Property?
"I loved that they put clients first and take away the stress by handling everything for them."
If you could live anywhere else in the city, where would it be?
"Stockbridge. It has a great community feel and lots going on, from restaurants and cafés to the Sunday market. Inverleith Park is perfect for dog walks and offers an amazing view over the city."
Your dream home?
"A barn conversion with character, exposed beams and an open fire for cosy winter nights. Equestrian facilities nearby and surrounded by countryside!"
What do you love most about the Scottish capital?
"The architecture and grand buildings, plus the fact you can walk almost anywhere."
Where do you spend your free time?
"I like heading to Portobello to grab a coffee and walk along the beach with the dogs."
Top tip for sellers?
"Make sure your property is tidy and clutter-free for photos — even small details can distract from your home’s best features."
You’ll find egg business partner Niksen Property at 32 North West Circus Place, Stockbridge. Contact them at [email protected] or follow on Instagram @niksenproperty. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just figuring out your next move, they’re ready to help - no pressure, no stress, just sound advice and a friendly face.
*egg members get 15% off estate agency fees at Niksen Property this September 2025! If you’ve been considering a move, now’s the perfect time. Simply book a free valuation this month, and Niksen will lock in your discount.*
