Letting & Estate Agent Podcast

Simon King, a non-executive director in the estate agency sector, discusses why many suppliers struggle with self-promotion. He contrasts those that connect effectively with clients, emphasizing the importance of ongoing engagement beyond initial sales. Simon highlights the impact of personal branding, noting how recognizable figures can humanize companies. He also points out the common mismatch between technical expertise and marketing skills, urging firms to prioritize people-first strategies to win customer loyalty.

In this insightful discussion, guests Sam Ashdown and Phil Jones, co-founders of Ashdown Jones and experts in driving agency growth, reveal key challenges faced by UK estate agents. They tackle the pitfalls of micromanagement and the necessity of transparent KPIs, emphasizing how many owners struggle with delegation. The duo explains how accepting a bit of imperfection can free up time for strategic growth. They highlight the dangers of the artisan trap, where hands-on control limits financial success, and share their journey towards data-driven management for sustainable agency development.

Oli Sherlock, an executive from Goodlord with extensive experience in proptech and tenant onboarding, shares insights on competition in the estate agency sector. He argues that embracing rivals fosters innovation and improves outcomes for landlords and tenants. The discussion highlights how unhealthy rivalries can stifle growth, while successful challengers like Goodlord push the industry to evolve. They also delve into pricing strategies and the importance of perceived value, demonstrating how competition ultimately raises service standards.

David and Grace Newton, co-founders of a new high street estate and lettings office in Grantham, share their journey of launching a successful agency. They achieved nearly 40 listings in just three months by focusing on smart branding and community engagement. Grace highlights their distinctive pink identity, while David discusses the importance of a physical office for team culture and local credibility. Their strategic local marketing tactics, including community sponsorships and creative outreach, set them apart in a competitive market.

Jamie Lester, Founder of House Properties, shares insights on transitioning to self-employment as an estate agent. He highlights the benefits of instant access to buyers through an established database, which eliminates the cold start. The supportive community and 'wolf pack' culture foster collaboration among agents. Jamie also discusses their innovative mobile-first platform, ongoing training, and in-house production to enhance branding. He provides practical local marketing tips, including engaging with community groups to boost visibility and growth.

In this conversation, Tom Panos, a seasoned real estate coach known for his insights on pricing and negotiation, shares his expertise on confidently setting fees. He discusses the common practice of fee cutting and its link to higher sales volume, emphasizing that agents shouldn't compromise their worth. Tom advises putting fees in writing to project authority and reminds agents that they earn nothing until a sale is made, allowing for effective negotiation. His insights aim to empower agents to maintain their value in the competitive UK property market.

Join Mark Newton, a UK property legend with nearly 50 years’ experience, as he shares his journey from Grantham negotiator to running one of the largest estate and letting networks. He discusses starting cold branches, building top teams, navigating corporate versus franchise models, and the values, leadership lessons, and passion that kept him successful. Practical advice and inspiration for agents and leaders alike.

Chris and property expert Simon King debate whether referral fees should be banned in estate agency. Simon calls them a red herring, arguing the real issue is how agents select partners and whether they value service over cash. He explains how referral fees can benefit agents when used responsibly. Should they stay or go?

Should people in their 20s take the leap into self employment as estate agents? In this episode, we chat with Sam Cerrone from eXp, who went from a 19 year old newcomer to a thriving self employed agent. She reveals why passion and drive can beat experience, how freedom outweighs the corporate ladder, and why self employment might be the smartest move for ambitious young professionals.

Sharon Carter, an East Anglia-based estate agent, advocates for a more compassionate approach in the real estate industry. She discusses how many agents have become too transactional, losing essential empathy for clients. Sharon highlights the importance of genuine relationships for long-term success and laments the decline in client nurturing. She criticizes ego-driven practices and emphasizes training agents in empathy. The discussion also explores how flexible PropTech can enhance client relations rather than hinder them.