Voices in Property - Orly Lehmann

Welcome to our quick-fire spotlight on industry leaders and entrepreneurs in Property.

In this edition, Orly Lehmann, Real Estate Advisor of DDRE shares his personal insights and experiences with anyone who may be currently working in or aspiring to join the London property industry.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I’m most proud of dedicating 15 years to an industry I truly love, whilst being a mum to two children. Taking the leap into self-employment was the scariest decision I’ve made, but it has also been the most rewarding one so far.

First property job and how you got it? 

I originally went into PR, but quickly realised it wasn’t for me. After quitting and facing some very disappointed parents, I applied to Foxtons the very next day and started shortly after. It turned out to be a defining moment in my career, an incredible place to learn, grow, and the perfect starting point in the property industry.

What motivates you? 

To provide the best possible life for myself and my family, while also being able to support my parents in their later years. They’ve sacrificed so much for me and my siblings, and being able to give back to them in the future is incredibly important to me.

Best advice for preparing for an interview? 

Be genuine and passionate about what you bring to the role, not just the industry. Do your research, know your strengths, and be clear on why you’re a good fit. Please don’t just say you ‘love property’ show it through your knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self? 

I’d tell my 18 year old self that I did exactly what I should have done, live life to the fullest at university, make the most of every experience, and get it all out of my system. It meant I was ready to fully commit and work hard once I finished.

Which leader, entrepreneur, founder, or CEO inspires you? 

There are many people who inspire me, but I’m especially drawn to relatable business women and mums. Listening to their journeys, how they balance ambition, resilience, and family life, is both motivating and reassuring.

Your best deal? 

There have been a handful of great deals over the years, but my most recent standout was a completely off-market house in Hampstead that every agent was circling. I managed to get access just as the tenants had moved out, quite literally sneaking in and out through the gates during the process and secured the deal before anyone else knew it was available.

What’s your favourite restaurant? 

It’s hard to choose just one, but I love Roka, and for something more local, Church Row in Hampstead is a favourite, perfect for dinner and a glass of wine.

Apple or Android? 

Apple although I am terrible with tech!

About DDRE

Find out more about DDRE here and connect with Orly Lehmann here.

Collins Property Recruitment is a business with a purpose: to enable talent and businesses to meet and do great things together. We make this happen through an unrivalled network, a values-led, consultative approach and a hard-earned reputation as the go-to recruiter in property.

Should you have any enquiries, email us at info@collinspropertyrecruitment.com or give us a call on 020 7435 0309.