Jan Dexter always had a knack for finding the perfect home. As a child, she dreamt of becoming an estate agent, and loved the thrill of visiting show homes. Little did she know that years later, she’d be living that dream on the island of Mallorca, running her own successful real estate agency, Parasol Property Mallorca. Nearly 40 years after first setting foot on the island, Jan has carved out a unique place in the local property market, blending her love for the island with a sharp eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to her clients.
Where were you born?
London.
Where did you study?
I only studied up to 6th form at school. Chigwell, Essex. Then I did two years of secretarial studies.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Interestingly, I wanted to be an estate agent as I loved visiting show homes in the UK when I was young. That or to work at Woolworths on the pick and mix sweet counter!
Who are your parents?
My parents are Peter and Margaret. My mother died just 15 months ago. My disabled father is still alive and lives in the UK, cared for by carers and my siblings.
What did they give you in life. What are you grateful for?
They gave me a solid education and confidence to stand on my own two feet and to show respect.
Where do you live now and why do you like this place?
I live in Binissalem, after many years living in Pollença. Binissalem makes travelling around the island easier. The locals are very friendly – and as the center of the Mallorcan wine industry, it is a perfect home for me.
How did you choose your profession?
I don’t think I actually chose it. I sort of fell into it. I ended up coming to Mallorca almost 40 years ago, and I worked for a number of tour operators as a travel rep, then when the holiday company Travel Club of Upminster closed down, I set up my own business using the mailing list and the great contacts I had with local hoteliers. From their it grew into what it is now.
What was your first professional success?
Taking bookings, receiving great reviews and repeat clients.
How and when did you open Parasol Property Agency?
I opened it up, part time, in 2011, after being made redundant.
What challenges did you initially face?
Confidence in my ability. Many people have a lack of confidence to charge what they are worth or market value.
How did you overcome those?
It took several years and a final realization that I was short-changing myself.
Who are your clients? Who contacts you most often?
This year, British, German, American, Scandinavian, French, probably in that order. Middle-aged guests but it can be either gender.
What are people’s requests and requirements? What are they looking for? What is most important to them?
Everyone is different, fortunately. It is important not to group people into categories but listen to their personal requirements. I pride myself on doing this very professionally and I think it is why I am successful at what I do. It may be stunning sea view, it may be a great pool, it may be user friendly, great Wi-Fi, it may be total privacy. Budget is often a deciding factor too.
What are the features of real estate pricing in Mallorca?
Strangely, the owners’ circumstances play an important part in pricing. Two almost identical properties in the same area can have very different prices due to how much the owner demands for a variety of reasons (mortgage to repay, need to move on, price paid or if anxious to sell asap). The estate agents can guide and suggest the correct price per m2 and whether the property offers average or above average finishings, but the owners often have a clear price in mind which is always more than the neighbor’s house! If you do not agree with the price, then another agent will!
How much does it cost to rent the cheapest apartment in Mallorca? Where would it be and what would it be like?
This is a difficult one as cheap no longer exists. Many people are having to look at apartment share as the only way to find somewhere they can afford. The cheapest apartments are in Inca or Sa Pobla, but you will still pay around 700€ for a one-bedroom apartment with basic furnishings. Port Pollença is around 1000€.
What is the most expensive apartment in Mallorca for rent?
That I do not know, as I do not tend to offer super luxury. The property will probably be an amazing modern penthouse with jacuzzi and sea views from the rooftop terrace, but it is not the market I work with so cannot tell you.
What are you most proud of?
My two beautiful grown-up daughters who are such wonderful people inside and out. They’re confident, adventurous and loving.
What do you think about the protests against mass tourism in Mallorca?
This is a topic we could talk about for hours. The problem is that these people are manifesting their frustration at the wrong door. The tourist is an easy target, but the bigger picture needs to be looked at. The real problem is the lack of affordable housing and the low salaries that people are paid. Therefore, the protests should be at the government not the tourist. You should never bite the hand that is feeding you, directly or indirectly. Some of the protests stem from jealousy. People need to stop and think where their grandparents and parents got their wealth from. They also need to think who it is that is selling or renting to foreigners. The protests are small and do not include business owners who know the island needs tourists. Not long ago we had the slogan SOS Tourism… What a turnaround. Since COVID everyone wants to travel and popular destinations around the world are suffering from overcrowding. The government obviously do need to consider the wider picture and offer solutions. We do have a problem that needs addressing. We all suffer with the busy roads, busy beaches, inflated prices but it is the price we pay for the success of the island and the luxury of living in one of the most sought-after areas in the world.
In what ways is Mallorca better than Barcelona or Madrid?
I am not sure you can say Mallorca is better than Barcelona or Madrid. It is very different from these fabulous huge cities, and they all offer something. For a small island we have a very diverse offer. Stunning coastlines, spectacular mountain roads, history, culture, food… and of course people feel very safe here.
What plans do you have for this year?
We are approaching the end of the busiest summer season. November is when we take a look at the results and plan for an even better 2025. We look at how to make things run smoother and easier. On a personal level, I am planning and looking forward to a large family celebration next May. I also have an autumn holiday to enjoy soon.
What is your goal in life?
My goal is simple. That my family and friends remain safe and healthy and enjoy life as much as possible in the short time we are all here.
How do you see Mallorca in 2030? What changes would you like to see?
Wow, I think there definitely will be changes to how people travel and live, and we will likely see changes in the nationalities that visit the island. The expectations of our visitors will be higher. I would like to see an increase in professionally trained staff in the hospitality industry. I believe that we are at a turning point, but I would not like to guess which way things will turn.
Text by Anastasia Barysheva
