Scott Fraser

by David Blythman April 2006

Since opening our new building and Residential Sales and Lettings business in Headington we have been delighted at the warm welcome we have received from residents and traders alike. Whoever said community spirit is dead has got it totally wrong.

Scottfraser sales and lettings in Headington is part of an already well established lettings and Investment Company with offices in Beaumont Street, Summertown and East Oxford. The new offices (see picture) in Headington started with the opportunity to build a landmark building “Portus House “which has won the Ibstock Downland architectural award for best commercial building in 2006, coupled with the friendship of Andrew Greenwood and David Blythman. David, who ran Chancellors for many years in Headington and was Sales Director for the Company across Oxfordshire felt there was a niche market in Headington and Oxford generally for a quality Estate Agency where the emphasis would be on client satisfaction and service. The response to date has certainly proved there was a gap in the market and we have been delighted with how quickly we have been able to establish our presence and reputation for success.

Most estate agents make claims about their ability to secure the highest possible price, in the shortest possible time, with the least possible inconvenience. These things are easy to say, although in reality many agents do not always find them easy to deliver. Indeed, such claims set a level of expectation that can sometimes be followed by disappointment.

One thing to look out for when selecting an agent is their period of sole agency. There is no doubt that a sole agency is far preferable to asking two agents to market your property, particularly in terms of accountability. But some agents insist on a sole agency tie-in period of 8, 12, 16 or even 26-weeks! Our question is….why?

In our opinion, a long period of sole agency suggests a lack of confidence on the agent’s part, and it is a way of preventing the seller from sacking them if they fail to deliver! What sort of accountability is that?! It means that the agent can say whatever the seller wants to hear in order to secure the property on their books, and then wait for the property to sell itself. Indeed, some agents take on properties under a long-term sole agency agreement, only to recommend a price reduction shortly after the initial marketing period. Sole agency periods protect agents not sellers!

We are breaking the mould in this area, as we believe property sellers deserve better. We feel that if, at any time, you no longer enjoy working with us, you should have the right to fire us! We simply ask for two weeks notice. We find that our clients really appreciate this transparent approach. It certainly keeps us on our toes, and ensures you get the commitment we promise at the outset.

Scott Fraser (Estate Agents) Limited,

77 London Road, Headington, Oxford OX3 9AA England
Tel: +44 (0) 1865 759500
Fax: +44 (0) 1865 759509
e-mail sales@scottfraser.co.uk

Web: Welcome to Scott Fraser

Company No. 3587466