For many, the idea of juggling a farm with a thriving estate agency might seem overwhelming. But for Libby Clarke, it’s just another day in paradise! She gives her all to everything she takes on, tackling every challenge that comes her way with determination and focus. Libby doesn’t believe in cutting corners; she’s fully committed, no matter the task at hand.
Growing up on Springfield Farm in Magheralin, Libby is the fifth-generation farmer in her family. From a young age, the Portadown businesswoman demonstrated a keen interest in sales. At just 15 years old, it was clear that this was the path she wanted to pursue.
Speaking to UrbanABC, Libby fondly recalls the thrill of making her first sale at such a young age, a moment that would set the stage for her future endeavours.
“I went to school in Belfast, and honestly, I was eager to leave,” Libby shared. “At 16, I enrolled in Greenmount Agricultural College. I spent three years there, and I absolutely loved every moment of it.”
“My dad Tom, was a livestock and property auctioneer in Portadown and owned Automart Livestock and Property Sales, which was located just past the Annagh Bridge. It really was my home away from home; I was always there running around the yard and the offices as a young child. I was probably more in the way at the beginning.
“As time went on, I got interested in sales, with Dad as my mentor. I sold my first property at fifteen years old and remember being very proud, but I remember even more how proud my dad was.”
In 2002, following her father’s retirement, Libby found herself working full-time on the family farm. Although she loved farming, she admits she craved something more challenging.
“I loved every minute of working on the farm, but it just wasn’t pushing me, I missed the satisfaction of sales and doing deals.”
“I saw a job advert in the local paper for a sales negotiator position at an estate agency in Portadown and landed the job. Within three months in the role, I was overseeing their new developments and within a year I was managing the five branches”
This role allowed Libby to merge her love for sales with her agricultural roots as she began to navigate the complex world of real estate while continuing to manage the family farm. Her unique combination of skills has not only helped her thrive in both industries but has also made her a respected figure in her community.
“Farming is one of those things that, if you’ve been raised in it, you can’t really picture yourself leaving it behind. It’s a complete calling. If you choose that path, it’s something you’ll always be committed to.”
Within eight years of managing Joyce Estate Agents, a significant milestone was reached with the birth of Joyce Clarke, a company that emerged following a successful buyout of the existing business. This transition marked a new chapter in the real estate landscape, bringing fresh energy and vision to the industry.
The establishment of Joyce Clarke in 2010 not only highlights the evolution of the business but also underscores a commitment to providing exceptional service in the real estate market.
“I’ve got a small but dedicated team here, and we really put in the effort together. Honestly, we have a blast in the office! There’s such great craic among us, and we’re always on the lookout for ways to improve and push the boundaries in the sales and lettings market, ever day is a school day!
“We definitely put in the long hours since estate agency isn’t your typical nine to five. I start my days early with calls from builders from 7am and farmers the other end of the day until late.”
However, it hasn’t always been an easy road for the female entrepreneur. In 2012, Libby was the subject of a horrific attack during a burglary at her farm, where she was assaulted, leaving her with significant injuries.
“I was a complete mess physically, I was left with a kicked-in face, broken teeth, and a smashed eye socket. My injuries ultimately led to having two hip replacements” she recalled.
“I’ve always been a positive person, and I refuse to let negativity define me. You have to stay in control and push things forward, even when faced with challenges,” she stated.
Showing immense courage and strength, Libby decided to speak out publicly, recognising that rural crime is often overlooked.
“I collaborated with various people to explore how networks like the police could offer more support. A group of us initiated an alert system among local neighbours, similar to a rural neighborhood watch, as funding for such initiatives has been significantly reduced.”
With Libby’s rural farming background, she recognises the vital importance of pre-hospital critical care in emergency situations. It was this understanding that drove her commitment to supporting Air Ambulance NI in 2022 at the Mash Direct Belfast City Marathon just 10 weeks after having her hip replaced.
Libby saw an opportunity to make a difference. She expressed her enthusiasm for the mammoth task, stating, “For a farmer, ‘marathon’ and ‘Belfast’ are two words that aren’t used too frequently, but it seemed like the ideal event to push myself out of my comfort zone and raise £10,000 for Air Ambulance NI.”
Libby’s dedication not only highlights the importance of critical care services but also showcases how individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together to support essential causes.
With the Marathon behind her, Libby’s personal and professional lives merge seamlessly. Libby is a familiar face and voice at Balmoral Show and Royal Ulster Beef and Lamb Championships where she commentates on a voluntary basis, and is an active member of council at the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society which is a charitable organisation promoting all aspects of agricultural life.
Her days often start at 6am tending to the farm, and after a quick spruce-up, she finds herself on the road across the country valuing properties—and of course, the odd farm!
“There are definitely nights in the winter, whether it be rain or snow, when I’m out on the farm, and maybe my mobile goes off with a live chat message from the website. It’s at those moments that I think there’s got to be an easier way of making a living, but in reality, I wouldn’t change it a thing, I love what I do.”
“I would hate to be a nine-to-five person; I just can’t be idle. It simply wouldn’t suit my personality or my drive. Everything has to be at 100%.
With a catalogue of achievements under her belt including being a prolific fundraiser for charities, Libby’s dedication to her family is evident, as she balances her professional commitments with the joys and challenges of motherhood with her two daughters Lucy and Kate being her proudest achievement. “The girls were both brought to work with me when they were just days old and have grown up surrounded by estate agency and farming.
“If I were to give anyone advice, it would be that you are in control of your own life. You make the decisions for yourself. Life is short, and you have to enjoy it no matter what curve balls are thrown at you. Don’t coast along; embrace change, and set yourself a goal, then make it happen.”