28 Jul Avoiding the Pitfalls of Corporate Estate Agencies

A recent BBC Panorama investigation has once again brought estate agency practices into the spotlight, this time criticising well-known corporate names like Connells and Purplebricks. The programme raised serious concerns about how some large agencies prioritise internal sales targets and shareholder profits over the needs of ordinary people buying or selling their homes. You can read more about the investigation here.

For many homeowners, this has left a sour taste and prompted an important question. Who can you really trust when it comes to selling your home?

At Kelvin Francis, we understand how personal this process is. For most people, their home is not only their biggest financial asset, but also an emotional one. That’s why we’ve built our reputation over decades on transparency, experience and care. We are independent, which means we’re not driven by shareholders or pressured into meeting sales quotas. Our only aim is to help you move in a way that feels right for you.

Such is the case for many independent estate agencies.

What Makes Independent Agents Different?

Unlike many corporate agencies, independent firms like ours are not part of a national chain with fixed targets or standard procedures. We are based in the community, work within it, and have long-standing relationships with local professionals, families and homeowners. This gives us a deeper understanding of the local market and the flexibility to tailor our service to each individual client.

When we recommend a solicitor, surveyor or mortgage advisor, it is because we know from experience that they provide a reliable, high-quality service. Our advice is always based on what is right for you.

• We do not take referral fees from solicitors or surveyors.
• Any commission arrangements never influences our recommendations or advice.
• We never prioritise our own gain over your best interests.

We believe good advice should be grounded in honesty and practical judgement. That means helping clients make informed decisions based on:

• Their ability to proceed with a purchase or sale.
• Their financial position and mortgage readiness.
• The seriousness and timing of their offer.
• Their awareness of the property’s condition and any work required.

This is not just our approach. It is the way we have always worked, with care, integrity and your long-term interests at heart.

Independent agencies have to spend years earning the trust of their community. Without the backing of a national brand, reputation is everything. That means they’re far less likely to risk it all for short-term gains, short sighted decisions could undo decades of hard-earned credibility.

Keeping Sales on Track, Without the Pressure

Another reason clients trust us is our experience in managing property chains. It is not uncommon for a sale to hinge on multiple linked transactions, each with their own challenges. We do everything we can to keep things moving smoothly. If a prospective buyer has a property to sell, we may offer to help.  In doing so can, we can reduce delays, simplify the chain, and help everyone involved.

That said, there is never any pressure to use our services for a related sale. Some buyers have their own trusted solicitors or agents, and we fully respect that. Our goal is to see a transaction through to a successful completion, with as little stress for our clients as possible.

When the process is handled with care and coordination, everyone benefits.

So, Can I Trust Corporate Estate Agencies?

It’s important to say that not every large or corporate estate agency operates poorly. There are many dedicated individuals working within those firms who genuinely care about doing right by their clients. If you find an agent, corporate or otherwise, with a strong track record, clear communication, and positive reviews, that’s a great start.

That said, it’s worth being aware of how some corporate structures work. National chains often have strict sales targets, bonus systems and performance metrics that can shift the focus away from personal service. Staff turnover can also be higher, meaning you may not always deal with the same person throughout your move. These aren’t issues in every case, but they’re factors worth keeping in mind when choosing who to trust with such an important decision.

How to Find a Trusted Independent Estate Agent

Choosing the right estate agent is an important step when buying or selling a home. If you want someone who will act in your best interests, here are a few things to look out for.

• They are based in the local area and understand the property market in your community
  • They take time to listen and offer honest guidance rather than chasing sales targets
  • They are clear about their fees and explain everything upfront
  • They are happy to answer questions and guide you through the process, they also respond to queries in a timely and promptly fashion.
  • They recommend professionals based on trust and experience, not commission
  • They have a long-standing track record and a history of successful sales and positive reviews.
  • They are known locally and have strong reviews or testimonials from real clients

A Clear Difference You Can Feel

The Panorama investigation has prompted many people to take a closer look at who they trust with one of life’s biggest decisions. We welcome that. Not all estate agents are the same, and we have always believed that transparency, professionalism and genuine client care set us apart.

At Kelvin Francis, we’re proud to be independent. We don’t answer to shareholders or national directors. We answer to the homeowner, the buyer, the family making the move. That’s why we take the time to understand your situation and give honest, tailored advice with no hidden agenda.

If you are thinking of selling or simply want a conversation with someone you can trust, we’re always here to help.