My Weekends: Saturdays are bustling with property viewings... Sundays are for relaxation

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Hello, I’m Majella, a proud Bandon native. I have a younger sister, Caroline, who’s just a little over a year younger than me. People say we’re like chalk and cheese — total opposites!

I’ve always had a deep love for the outdoors, which complements my passion for my work as an estate agent perfectly.

Growing up, I used to join my dad, who was an estate agent, on Saturday viewings. Those were the days!

In 2010, I graduated from the University of Reading with a BSc (Hons) in Real Estate. Subsequently, I worked in Dublin, where I gained valuable experience before returning to Bandon, West Cork, to join the family business. I am currently the Director of DNG Galvin alongside my sister, Caroline.

Outside of work, I’m all about keeping busy. I serve as chair of the Society Chartered Surveyors Ireland (Southern region), secretary at Network Ireland West Cork, and president at Bandon Toastmasters. These roles are so enriching and bring me immense fulfilment.

And why do I love what I do? It’s all about the variety and getting to help people find their dream homes.

What is your ideal way to spend a Friday night?

My ideal way to spend a Friday night varies depending on the time of year. In the summer, you’ll find me out walking along the beach, soaking in the evening sun. But when winter rolls around, Friday nights tend to be quieter for me. 

I like to kick back at home, put my feet up, and prepare for Saturday viewings. 

And you know what? I might just pamper myself a bit with a nice facial, massage, or a trip to the hair salon. It’s all about relaxation and gearing up for the weekend ahead.

Lie ins or up with the lark.. which is it for you?

For me, it’s a mix of both. Weekdays have me up bright and early for work, but come the weekend, I’m all about those lie-ins. I guess you could say I’m a bit of a night owl, so catching up on sleep when I can is a must for me.

Does work tend to creep into your weekends?

Yes, Saturdays are typically bustling with property viewings, but I thrive on the energy and excitement it brings. It’s a busy day, but I genuinely enjoy it. 

As for Sundays, I try to keep them free, reserving them for relaxation and unwinding. 

Occasionally, I may need to catch up on some leftover work from the week, but for the most part, Sundays are my time to recharge and prepare for the week ahead.

If money was no object where would you head to on a weekend city break? And who would you bring with you?

If money was no object, I’d definitely jet off to New York City for a weekend city break, and I’d bring along some good friends to share the adventure with. The Big Apple offers endless excitement, from exploring iconic landmarks to indulging in world-class dining and entertainment. It would be the perfect blend of adventure and camaraderie.

Closer to home, is there some place you like to head to recharge the batteries?

For a recharge closer to home, West Cork is my go-to destination. With its abundance of beautiful beaches and captivating spots, it’s hard to beat. One of my favourites is Inchydoney, where the serene coastal views never fail to rejuvenate me. 

Additionally, I have a soft spot for Killarney, with its stunning landscapes and tranquil ambiance. 

Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the beach or a scenic hike in Killarney, these spots never disappoint when it comes to unwinding and recharging the batteries.

Do you like to catch up with family/friends at the weekend?

Absolutely, catching up with family and friends is a big part of my weekend routine. Whether it’s sharing a meal together, going for a walk, or simply relaxing and chatting at home, spending quality time with loved ones is always a priority for me. It’s these moments that make the weekends truly special.

Do you get to indulge any hobbies? Even as a spectator?

My hobbies are a central part of my life. I cherish the time I spend with my dog, Cindy, as we explore the beauty of the outdoors together during our walks. Her excitement and wagging tail are always a highlight of my day.

Recently, I’ve also taken up golf, and it has quickly become a passion of mine. Whether I’m practicing my swing or enjoying a round on the course, the challenge and relaxation that golf offers are truly fulfilling. It’s become an important part of my routine and a great way to unwind and recharge.

Entertain or be entertained?

Definitely the former for me! I love organising events and gatherings, creating memorable experiences for friends and family to enjoy. However, when it comes to cooking, I have to admit, I’m not the most skilled in the kitchen. In fact, I’d go as far as to say I’m pretty useless! But hey, everyone has their strengths, right? So while I may not have a signature dish, I’ll gladly take charge of planning and hosting the festivities instead.

We have so many places to eat out in Cork — where are your go to spots for coffee/ lunch/ special meal?

When it comes to coffee, I’m more of a tea person myself! I enjoy exploring different tea spots around Cork, so you’ll often find me trying out new places. As for lunch, since I’m constantly on the road, I tend to grab a bite at local spots in towns or villages across Cork and West Cork. It’s a great way to experience the diverse culinary scene of the region.

For a special meal, my go-to spot is Kinsale, and I absolutely love dining at The Man Friday. It’s a fantastic restaurant with a charming atmosphere and delicious food, making it the perfect choice for any special occasion.

Sunday night comes around too fast.. how do you normally spend it?

As Sunday night rolls around, I like to take a moment to unwind and prepare for the week ahead. I find it helpful to reflect on the past week’s accomplishments and challenges, allowing me to set clear goals and plans for the coming days. While I’m setting goals, I also make sure to carve out some time to relax and recharge, whether it’s by enjoying a good book, watching a movie, or simply spending time with loved ones. It’s all about finding that balance between productivity and relaxation to start the week off on the right foot.

What time does your alarm clock go off on Monday morning?

My alarm is set for an early start on Monday mornings because I prefer to get to the office ahead of schedule. This way, I can finish up a bit earlier in the evening as I lecture the estate agency students in Cork. Starting the day off early gives me the flexibility to balance my work commitments effectively and ensure I’m prepared for both my office tasks and teaching responsibilities later in the day.

Anything else you are up to right now...

Yes, I have a lot happening these days! I recently initiated property advice clinics for both buyers and sellers. These clinics are designed to educate individuals about the process of buying and selling properties. They alternate between online and in-person formats.

Follow me on social media to keep up to date! https://www.facebook.com/dnggalvin/

www.dnggalvin.ie