Hybrid agency launches share offer for investors after rapid growth

One of the leading ‘new breed’ of hybrids relying on self-employed agents is opening a share offer to investors in a bid to accelerate future growth.

Agents & Homes, based in Notting Hill and with 30 self-employed agents specialising in prime locations across the capital as well as Essex and the Home Counties, is entering its third year of trading.

It is hoping to appeal to investors as it still qualifies for the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme - which offers attractive tax relief - despite moving beyond the start-up phase and having what it describes as a sound trading history.

Despite Brexit uncertainty and the pandemic, it reports revenue growth of more than 560 per cent in 2019/20.

Self-employed agents working for Agent & Homes have the option to work from home, its Notting Hill hub or a combination of both. They are free to negotiate fees at their own discretion.

It says startup and running costs are “minimal” with agents provided with access to all major property portals, as well as marketing, advertising and administration help.

"As we enter our third year of trading, we are extremely proud of the growth we have achieved against the backdrop of a challenging property market and now we are looking to accelerate this growth over the coming period" says Agent & Homes co-founder Rollo Miles.

"Our model really is the future of estate agency and we are sure the number of self-employed agents will rise even quicker than anticipated due to the impact of recent events. We are therefore planning to offer shares to savvy investors who want to get ahead of the curve.

"The Agent & Homes revolution means no middle management, no endless meetings and no obligation to work at the weekend if you don't want to. Instead, we provide the platform for people to offer exceptional service at great prices and enjoy being an estate agent again" explains Miles.

The agency boss says Coronavirus has both highlighted the work/life balance advantages of home working and the long-term perilousness of bricks and mortar premises of the more traditional agency model. 

"The modern agent does not need a high street presence. Instead, they should be focusing on becoming a client's agent for life, while adapting to modern ways of working and the evolving needs and expectations of consumers" Miles concludes.

Agent & Homes has also announced its latest recruit, Gideon Kaldezar, who already provides a tailored property management service with Sallie Wood Ltd. Now, linked to Agent & Homes, he has increased his portfolio of services to include sales and lettings.