Michael graduated from Commerce in UCC in 1992 and majored in Marketing and Management. Prior to that Michael had gained a Diploma in Business Studies from CIT/MTU in 1990. He subsequently worked in the mortgage broking and financial services sector for 11 years, acting as an agent for Hibernian Life/Aviva. Michael gained valuable experience in the property sales business before opening his own business with Sean McCarthy in 2003.

He is a QFA (Qualified Financial Advisor), and a professional auctioneer and valuer with over 30 years’ experience. Michael is a registered licence holder with the PSRA (Property Services Regulatory Authority) since it was established in 2012, and a member of IPAV ( Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers in Ireland) for the last 5 years. He is also a member of the Institute of Bankers, as well as the LIA (Life Insurance Association) for over 25 years, and regularly undergoes Continuous Professional Development.

Michael has helped ERA Downey McCarthy to grow from a 5 person organisation in 2011 to 25 people (and growing) at present time. In the meantime the company has broadened their services from Property Sales and Financial Services to include Lettings and Property Management as well as Block Property Management. ERA Downey McCarthy are now one of the biggest estate agents in Cork (No. 1 in second hand residential sales in Cork City in 2023)

Michael has helped thousands of people to purchase and sell their homes in Cork City and surrounding areas over the last 30 years.