Jaime Kozey-Volkman

Why this persona fits the audience

He co-owns a 3-person estate agency in Leeds and personally handles listing imagery, neighborhood promos, and staff headshots using Canva templates, phone photos, and manual editing.

• Age: 38
• Location: Leeds, UK
• Occupation: estate agency co-owner
• Income: £35k-£55k plus commissions
• Education: College diploma in Business
• Company size: 3
• Years in role: 10

“You've got to make things look good, of course, but it's got to be honest and it's got to be practical. That's what people want when they're buying a home.”

Jaime Kozey-Volkman, 38, is a co-owner of Westwood & Finch Estate Agents, a small but reputable three-person firm based in Leeds. He earned a college diploma in Business, which provided a solid foundation for his entrepreneurial journey. After a few years working for larger agencies, he and his friend Mark decided to strike out on their own, focusing on a more personal, community-oriented approach to property sales and lettings. Jaime’s specific niche within the business involves managing the visual marketing aspects. He’s developed a system for creating listing imagery, neighbourhood promotional materials, and even staff headshots, primarily using Canva templates and photos taken with his smartphone, followed by manual editing. This hands-on approach stems from a desire for control over quality and a pragmatic understanding of their limited budget. He believes that strong visuals are crucial for attracting buyers and sellers, but he’s always looking for the most efficient and cost-effective way to achieve professional results. His income fluctuates between a base salary of £35k-£55k and commissions, which he reinvests heavily back into the business or saves for his family. Recently, Jaime has been exploring ways to elevate the visual quality of their listings without drastically increasing costs. He’s been experimenting with different lighting techniques for interior shots and looking into more advanced Canva features, but he feels he’s hitting a ceiling with the current tools. He’s also been considering how to better showcase the unique character of Leeds neighbourhoods, often spending his own time walking around areas they are trying to market, taking candid shots of local landmarks and community hubs. His decision to personally handle much of the visual content is driven by a strong sense of responsibility and a desire to maintain consistency and reputation, values he holds dear. He sees his role as ensuring the agency presents itself professionally and authentically, reflecting the quality of service they provide.

Background & daily life

A day in their life

Jaime's weekday typically starts around 7:00 AM with breakfast and getting his son ready for school. By 8:30 AM, he's usually at the office, responding to emails and planning the day. Mornings might involve a property photoshoot in a different part of Leeds, followed by returning to the office to upload and begin editing images using Canva. He’ll spend time designing a social media graphic for a new listing or a flyer for a local community event. Lunch is often a quick sandwich at his desk while reviewing business accounts or supplier invoices. Afternoons are a mix of administrative tasks, client calls, and coordinating with his colleagues, often ending around 6:00 PM before heading home.

Lifestyle

Jaime lives in a semi-detached house in a well-established Leeds suburb with his wife, Sarah, and their young son, Leo. Weekends are a mix of family time, often involving park visits or attending Leo's football practice, and catching up on property viewings or administrative tasks. He enjoys a round of golf with colleagues or friends when time permits, usually at a local municipal course. Money is managed carefully, with a focus on saving for Leo's future and ensuring the business remains stable. He’s not one for extravagant spending, preferring practical investments and reliable, long-lasting goods.

Work life

As co-owner of 'Westwood & Finch Estate Agents', Jaime's days are a juggling act. He's deeply involved in the visual presentation of their listings, a role he carved out due to his knack for photography and design. This involves shooting properties, editing photos in Canva, and creating simple promotional graphics for social media and local flyers. He also manages the agency's online presence and handles much of the day-to-day operational admin. The pressure comes from competing with larger agencies and the constant need to secure new instructions in a competitive market. His two colleagues handle sales and lettings negotiations, freeing him up for the creative and operational side.

Relationships

Jaime is married to Sarah, a primary school teacher, and they are a solid team managing family life. His business partner, Mark, is a long-time friend, and their relationship is built on mutual respect and shared ambition. He has a small circle of close friends, mostly met through university or golf, with whom he shares practical advice and commiserates about business or football.

How they decide

Jaime is a cautious and research-oriented decision-maker. He weighs options carefully, considering practicality, cost-effectiveness, and long-term benefits. He'll often seek out reviews or ask for opinions from trusted peers before committing, especially if it involves a new tool or significant expenditure.

How they sound

Speaks with a clear, measured Northern English accent. Tends to be direct and practical in his language, avoiding overly technical jargon or effusive praise. Uses phrases like 'right then', 'fair enough', and 'make sense'. He’s not one for hyperbole and prefers to stick to the facts.