New branches in Manchester and London as agencies defy market

A first-time agent who has previously owned a retail franchise and some buy to let units, has bought the Century 21 franchise for the Salford suburb of Manchester.

Abubakr Sehri has lived in Manchester for the last 17 years after moving to the UK in 2001.

“I’ve owned a franchise of the convenience retailer Londis for the past 13 years, but decided to venture into property five or six years ago. I went into buy to let and I now own four properties” he says.  

“After working in retail for many years I wanted a change, and Century 21 UK was the best fit for me. Everything just fell into place.

“My aim is to bring the area of Salford together and offer my business expertise to local residents. I enjoy providing excellent service, so the concept of becoming a franchisee really attracted me as I will be able to focus all my attention and dedication into one branch.”

Meanwhile at the other end of the market and in London, high end operator Quintessentially Estates is opening its first bricks and mortar shop in London’s Belgravia. 

The branch, its first, will predominantly serve as a buying agent outlet, sourcing London property to rent and buy for clients.

A statement from the company says: “With an ambitious expansion plan and the opening of new offices over the next quarter, Quintessentially’s offer will become more varied as new offices open globally.”

Quintessentially also offers a home management service to its clients - it calls the offer a ‘virtual housekeeper’ that will keep an eye on a property, stock the fridge and arrange any repairs or work required to the property.