Lisney’s own Lloyd Hannigan has proved he is one of Northern Ireland’s most talented young property professionals by making the shortlist of the 2017 RICS Matrics Young Surveyor of the Year (YSOYA) Awards.

Lloyd, a chartered surveyor at Lisney Belfast who now lives in the city but hails from Omagh, has been shortlisted in the Property Agency (Residential and Commercial) category of the awards and will also compete with other finalists from across Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales for the overall title of ‘UK Young Surveyor of the Year’.

Surveyors are essential in key areas such as housing, commercial property and our road and rail systems, and the YSOYA was launched four years ago to raise awareness of the diverse range of young talented surveyors, trainees and apprentices working in such areas – aged 35 and under – who are helping to shape and improve the communities we live in.

Ninety young surveyors from all over the UK made this year’s shortlist, including five from Northern Ireland, and each entrant will be considered for the overall ‘UK Young Surveyor of the Year’ accolade, awarded to the professional who has not only achieved great success in their respective role and sector, but also demonstrates an unwavering commitment to improving the industry and the wider profession.

Lloyd commented: “I am delighted to have been shortlisted for this prestigious accolade and even more so to have been put forward for nomination by my peers. The property industry is fast moving, ever changing and presents challenges on a daily basis. It is these facets of the industry, along with the requirement to think on your feet, which are appealing. The opportunity to deal with people from all walks of life is an added bonus.

“I have been fortunate enough to have worked on behalf of quality clients through a number of redevelopment projects which have led to the betterment of the built environment. The opportunity for property professionals to get involved in redevelopment projects, which often act as a catalyst for urban regeneration is intriguing and it is this input and guidance from the surveying sector which is often overlooked.

“Having worked in a general practice environment has enabled me to garner a well-rounded skill set and I am grateful for the time which employers and peers have invested in me.”

For the first time in the history of the awards, the winner of this prestigious title will gain a new Volvo V40 D2 car on a 23-month lease to further aid their career, courtesy of principal sponsors of the YSOYA awards, Santander Consumer Finance.

Commenting on the announced shortlist, David Keddie MRICS, Chair of the RICS UK Matrics Board – a networking and support group for young surveyors – and head of this year’s judging panel said: “Northern Ireland’s property industry has some of the brightest and most ambitious talent, and these exceptional shortlisted individuals are testament to this high calibre of professionals, who are enjoying hugely rewarding and varied careers in the industry. Some of the built projects and initiatives these nominees have helped to develop and deliver have made a remarkable contribution to their local property markets and wider communities.

“I wish them the very best of luck in raising awareness of their achievements which have helped ensure the region remains a fantastic place to live, work and visit. I’m sure the bonus of winning a car will certainly be a boost to the overall Young Surveyor of the Year winner and their career too.”

The winners will be announced at a black-tie ceremony on 17 November in London and will be hosted by TV presenter and motivational speaker, Saira Khan.