A WORK experience stint at an estate agents at the age of 16 turned out to be the catalyst that propelled Toby Cockcroft into a career in property.

He was so inspired by his week with Richard Waring of Thomlinsons in Wetherby, that he knew at once he had found an industry that would inspire him.

Twenty three years on the former work experience lad has lost none if his enthusiasm for the property world. In 2011 he set up his own business and Croft Residential has become synonymous with some of the most characterful and historic homes to change hands across the north of England.

The agency specialises in selling luxury properties, many of which are in rural North Yorkshire, as well as in finding suitable new homes for clients who are looking to move on.

From the urban chic of York’s first £1 million apartment in the prize-winning Bonding Warehouse riverside development, to the historic Gateforth Hall near Selby, which came with its own lord-of-the-manor title, Mr Croft says his business, based out of an office in York's Swinegate, has become the "go-to agency for well-to-do Yorkshire homeowners with an out-of-the-ordinary property to sell".


What job would you like to have other than your own and why?

"I love my job at Croft Residential but I have always had a dream of being a professional golfer. I’m not the best player in the world - which may hamper my plans for golfing world dominance slightly – but I do manage to play four or five times a year. It would be an amazing lifestyle, travelling the world and meeting interesting people."


Greatest achievement?

"I’m torn between the satisfaction of having set up my own successful business and becoming a father to three wonderful children. I’m incredibly proud of both those feats, although I think I’d be in trouble if I didn’t put my children first!"


What makes you most angry?

"Bad timekeeping and lateness does annoy me and I do always try to be on time myself. I think it’s very rude to assume someone else’s time is less important than your own."


Biggest mistake?

"As a young man I think I was probably very arrogant and I regret that now. I have definitely become more humble as I’ve got older and realised that I am not infallible."


What do you need to make life complete?

"I’m incredibly lucky that I have everything I need to feel fulfilled. Without doubt, most important to me is the unconditional love of my wonderful family - and the satisfaction of running my own business."


Why do you make a difference?

"I’ve become adept over the years at putting myself in other people’s shoes and in understanding and helping them to overcome adversities. When I’m working with clients, who are making monumental personal decisions about their homes, this is a vital attribute to have."


Epitaph

"I really do try my best at all times, so I hope that I will be remembered as someone who always did everything to the best of my abilities."