Our People

Andrew Coulson FNAEA

Managing Director & Valuer

Andrew is very much hands-on when it comes to the day-to-day running of the business. He carry out all our valuations, so will meet you in person and conduct a full marketing appraisal of your property. Ultimately, he is there to ensure that every stage of your property sale goes smoothly and efficiently. His property expertise, provides me with a comprehensive understanding of the market and helping clients find their ideal homes.

“I have a keen eye for design and attention to detail allows me to enhance spaces while maintaining their character. I have just recently completed my latest project rebuilding a property from scratch to make it our forever home. I love animals, especially dogs and cats. I have 4 dogs Chester, Monty, Lola, Mabel and two rescue cats Harry and Poppy. Ailsa and I are partners at work as well as home, so naturally the majority of our conversations are work or family related”

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Ailsa Mather FNAEA, CPEA

Director and Office Manager

Ailsa handle sales negotiations, and carry sales through from start to finish. I’m responsible for liaising with solicitors, surveyors and lenders, in order to see your sale through to completion as quickly and simply as possible. I’m in overall charge of our happy office on a day-to-day basis, and oversee the roles of the other staff. Crucially, I also deal with enquiries outside office hours: if you have any queries at any point during the sales process, you can rest assured that I am always on the end of the phone to help, even if the office is closed. I am also on the National Advisory Council for The Guild of Property Professionals.

“I am a warm-hearted and dedicated mother to three children and a proud grandmother to six grandchildren. I believe that family is everything, and our home is a reflection of that belief, where love and laughter are shared by all, including my four beloved dogs and two cats I have passion for cookery. I enjoy watching cooking programmes and trying new recipes. Above all, I embrace the saying “home is where the heart is,” and work hard to create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued and at ease. I am also on the National Advisory Council for The Guild of Property Professionals

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Claire Forster MNAEA

Senior Property Consultant

I was born in Newcastle upon Tyne into a military family and moved to Hexham in 1991. I attended Queen Elizabeth High School before going on to study Business Studies at Newcastle University. My first experience working with Andrew came during a school work placement while at QEHS, followed by Saturdays at the office. After graduating, I joined the company full-time as a sales negotiator—and apart from a short break, I’ve been with Andrew and Ailsa ever since.

I am now PA to Andrew and am passionate about my work and take great pride in the personal, high-quality service we provide. Over the years, I’ve gained extensive experience and insight into the local property market and am a qualified member of the National Association of Estate Agents (MNAEA). I also have a keen interest in home interiors, which naturally complements my role.

I’m married to Martin, a PGA golf professional who divides his time between the golf world and helping with property viewings and photography for Andrew.

We’re lucky to have two wonderful children: our son who is a retained firefighter, and our daughter, a talented cricketer who plays at county level. Unsurprisingly, they’re both skilled golfers too!

My life is complete with my French bulldog whom I adore and who’s rarely far from my side and brings joy to every day.

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Joanne Knowles

Property Consultant

Joanne has been a member of our team for four years.  Joannes role is to deal with Buyer and Vendor enquiries, negotiating on offers  support Ailsa with Sales Progression. She also creates our monthly Ezine magazine  and covers Claires role when she is not in the office.

“I’m a proud parent of three wonderful children and the owner of two lovable sausage dogs. I’ve called Hexham home for the past 16 years, where I’ve enjoyed creating lasting memories with my family. My love for adventure takes me on exciting travels, from climbing mountains to discovering new places, all while enjoying delicious meals at local restaurants. Life is all about embracing every opportunity for exploration and making the most of every moment with those I love.”

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Pamela Smith

Property Consultant

Pamela has been a member of our team for 2 years. Pamela deals with any email enquires that come into the office, arranging viewings and chase viewings up, negotiating on offers.

“I’ve called this area home for 21 years and recently ventured into the world of estate agency, embracing new challenges and opportunities. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my daughters and family, watching soaps, and pursuing my passion for decorating and interior design. Creating beautiful spaces brings me joy, and I’m always looking for new ways to make a house feel like a home

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Martin Forster

Vidoeographer, Photographer and Accompanied Viewer

I’ve worked for Andrew Coulson as an accompanied viewer since 2019. I am now responsible for producing all photographs and video footage for all properties for sale.

Following a career as a qualified PGA gold professional since 1992 I have huge experience in running my own business competitive golf, coaching and sales. Over the years this has given me great people skills attention to details and standards. Away from work I enjoy golf, snooker, darts and cricket with my son and daughter. I also love working with my wife Claire.

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Chester, Lola, Mabel, Monty (Meet and Greet team)

Their friendly nature and love for treats creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for clients. Whether they’re wagging their tails or giving gentle nudges for attention, these black labs bring joy and companionship.