We help almost 10,000 customers move home every year, which makes us one of the country’s top-10 law firms.*
When you find your perfect property, our team of solicitors will take care of all the legal work. This includes local searches and surveys, contracts of purchase and leasehold agreements, if necessary. Our customers benefit from cost-effective services and, unusually for the legal profession, our fees are fixed and offered to you on a 'No Sale, No Fee' basis. Request a FREE quote and further information today.
...an introduction to The Robinson Jackson Group, the services we provide and a snapshot of the type of properties we market for our customers. In the latest edition, you will also find advice to help you buy, sell or let a property.
The decision to move is a big one, with many influencing factors. With the abundance of news channels across TV, print, radio and social media, you'd expect crisis-led headlines to be the most significant factor. However, this doesn't seem to be the case.
Having worked in the property sector for nearly 15 years, it amazes me how news coverage has minimal effect on an individual’s decision-making process. Yes, there are periods of subdued activity, but people only hold off on their plans for a short time. Nine times out of ten, our offices will report their customers are ploughing on regardless. Even finding fresh opportunities presented by changes in the market.
By all means, digest the news headlines, but you might be pleasantly surprised when
you hear what's happening on the ground. Indeed, only be put off pressing ahead once you've spoken to a local estate agent and their associated Financial Advisers. After all, whether for life stage or lifestyle reasons, when it's your time to move, it's your time to move. (Turn to page 8 to discover how the experience offered by our staff will help you navigate the moving process.)
Changes in the housing market do not just affect homeowners but also people that have investments. Namely, buy-to-let properties used to top up your income or as part of your pension plans. Traditionally if residential sales slow slightly, the lettings market picks up. Rental properties can be in high demand, which may present tenants challenges and landlords opportunities. Although investors are increasingly discerning these days, seeking longevity rather than quick wins. If you own one or more investment properties and markets are changing, we'd urge you to speak with a few local lettings agents to see how it will affect you.
For more information about the topics covered in our Moving Magazine, we are available 7 days a week. Find all our contact details on page 64.
Sales - 01322 441010
Lettings - 01322 292805
Sales - 01322 559900
Lettings - 01322 292805
Sales - 020 8298 7000
Lettings - 020 3409 4255
Sales - 020 8698 1234
Lettings - 020 3084 0000
Sales - 01322 281281
Lettings - 01322 292805
Sales - 020 8859 9600 Lettings - 020 3084 0000
Ebbsfleet Garden City 22 Sales - 01322 941333 Lettings - 01474 333111
Sales - 01474 333111 Lettings - 01474 333111
Sales - 020 8297 8777 Lettings - 020 3084 0000
Sales - 01622 476666 Lettings - 01622 476666
Sales - 01322 340000 Lettings - 01322 292805
Orpington & Bromley South
Plumstead & Woolwich Rainham & Gillingham
Sales - 01689 833322 Lettings - 020 3409 4255
Sales - 020 8317 4111 Lettings - 020 3409 4255
Sales - 01634 263000 Lettings - 01634 565888
Rochester & Chatham Sales - 01634 880888 Lettings - 01634 565888
Sidcup & Blackfen
Sittingbourne & Isle of Sheppey
Strood & Hoo
Swanley & West Kingsdown
Swanscombe & Greenhithe
Sydenham
Sales - 020 8298 0500 Lettings - 020 3409 4255
Sales - 01795 479999 Lettings - 01634 565888
Sales - 01634 722777 Lettings - 01634 565888
Sales - 01322 666444 Lettings - 01322 292805
Sales - 01322 624440
Lettings - 01474 333111
Sales - 020 8776 6660
Lettings - 020 3084 0000
Sales - 01634 868000
Lettings - 01634 565888
Welling
Sales - 020 8303 5213
Lettings - 020 3409 4255
Thank you to all our customers. robinson-jackson.com
We’d like to thank Fat Crow Photography for their photos within this edition of our Moving magazine. Fat Crow supply our professional photography for properties, staff pictures and marketing materials. They also offer our customers video tours and, where permissible, drone footage. When booking a professional photographer, sellers benefit from lighting, composition and editing expertise that ensures your home stands out from the crowd – especially useful when it comes to catching the eye of buyers who are browsing online property listings, window displays and brochures.
For over 30 years The Robinson Jackson Group has had a reputation as a leading sales agency so it may be a surprise to some readers to know we also offer awardwinning lettings services.
Lettings is the fastest growing part of our business having doubled in size in only the last five years.
The rapid growth has been bolstered by our investment into an expanding team of lettings professionals, staff training and the latest technology the industry has to offer. This means both landlords and tenants
For the third year running, we are honoured to receive the highest accolade, winning gold at this years Best Estate Agency Awards.
We are proud to display our award at every branch in London & Kent. Thus, aiding customers when seeking an estate agent with credentials they can trust.
Indeed, the number one reason for choosing an agent is ‘trust’.
In the recent Home Mover survey, which
receive the personal assistance they need alongside mobile-friendly software designed to save time and simplify admin.
Dominic Kleywegt, RJ Group Lettings Partner explains, “This has been a very exciting period with new services introduced to make the whole lettings process smoother for our customers. We’re all aware of the compliance, paperwork and general faff when letting a property. Our objective is to minimise this hassle. Being the size of business we now are, it opens the doors to opportunities for efficiency that smaller letting agents are not able to access.
With every month that passes my team is identifying the pain points and introducing solutions that make our customers' lives easier. The services we provide are radically different to those offered historically. And the experience we offer customers just keeps getting better and better."
If you thought The Robinson Jackson Group is solely a sales agency, think again. Whether you are a seasoned investment landlord or thinking of letting a property for the first time, please contact a member of the team. Telephone numbers are at the back of the magazine.
interviewed 23,000 movers and landlords, it found the following five most influential reasons for the choice of agent. 'I trusted them', 'confident in their ability to market my property', 'the company had a good reputation', 'pleased with their valuation', 'they had good market knowledge'.
For all the five reasons why an agent was chosen, The Robinson Jackson Group scored higher than the industry average. Demonstrating how highly our customers rate our services. For more information, contact us today.
The Home Mover survey and Best Estate Agency Guide are provided by industry body The Property Academy
Whether it’s your time to sell, buy or let a property there’s no avoiding the contact necessary with real people. Whilst other sectors, such as retail have moved online, 93% of property transactions are undertaken by estate agents based on the High Street. Furthermore, the telephone remains the preferred method of communication for much of the sales and lettings process.
Overwhelmingly, favoured services remain personal when it comes to the public’s greatest assets.
We are grateful to so many talented individuals who choose to dedicate their careers to helping our customers. It is always a delight to recognise the recently promoted staff, and future stars.
In a recent buyer survey*, 71% of our customers specified that they relied on a mortgage to buy their home. Among this group, the majority (67%) said they sought financial advice before finding the property they were buying.
Ben Griffin, Financial Adviser comments, "The survey findings echo the advice we always give our customers. Speak to an IFA at the earliest opportunity! There are many reasons for this advice, not least to establish your budget. Sometimes this might exceed your expectations, and you could afford more than you originally thought. Conversely, there's little point wasting time searching for properties in a price bracket that are outside of your affordability."
Buying a new home is one of the most significant financial commitments you will ever make. We want to help you find the perfect new home, but we also want you
to be financially secure. Especially when interest rates are fluctuating. This is why our experienced Independent Financial Advisors are constantly researching the best deals for our customers. They help you explore all your options and work out what you can comfortably commit to before you step past that enticing ‘For Sale’ sign.
Many estate agents also insist you have mortgage pre-approval, known as an 'Agreement in Principle', before they allow you to view properties. This policy is understandable; a seller wants the assurance people viewing their property are in a financial position to buy it. Not securing an Agreement in Principle will be a barrier, and you could miss out on your ideal home.
Thankfully, with the guidance from our Financial Advisers, we can provide the correct proof of your financial position. Thus, allowing you to enquire with any estate agent and fill your diary with property viewings.
Our expert support doesn’t stop there. Instead, if you use a Financial Adviser situated within the estate agent, they will monitor your plan and your sale or purchase progression. If they anticipate a change
to the amount you need to borrow, the repayment terms or interest rates, they will contact you to advise you of your options. Likewise, suppose your circumstances change, or the sales process deviates. They will work closely with you and their estate agency colleagues.
Please call or drop into any of our branches to organise an appointment with a Financial Adviser. It's a relaxed environment (which many customers prefer), and the advice comes from an independent adviser with access to thousands of mortgage products, including all the major lenders.
Every month there are around 100,000 property transactions across the UK.
This number rises and falls. However, there's always a significant amount of people that feel it's their time to move. Some homeowners are influenced by house prices or interest rates. Still, for most, life stage and lifestyle are the overriding factors.
As families grow, it is natural to want additional bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen, and a lovely garden. Ultimately, your life stage dictates the need for more space. Conversely, the extra rooms and the associated running costs are unnecessary when children fly the nest. In such cases, couples take the lifestyle decision to buy a smaller home, bank the equity or even use it to help their offspring (the next generation of first-time buyers) get on the property ladder.
Divorce, death and relocation span all life
stages and lifestyles. If you have to relocate for your job, be within a school’s catchment area or be closer to loved ones, the decision to move is primarily out of your hands. Regardless of whether property prices are rising or falling.
Most of our readers will appreciate that once the decision is made, it can only be put off for so long. The urge is too overwhelming; it's your time to move! At this stage, the state of the housing and mortgage market comes into play. Whether they are going up or down, they are now unlikely to make you change your mind. Instead, it's how you navigate them that matters. So, on the first stage your journey, turn to an experienced estate agent or financial adviser. I'd suggest both.
For movers like yourselves, there's an incredible resource waiting for you on the High Street. Yes, there are facts and figures online, but ultimately these are historical and based on national or regional averages. To gain insights, you need to know what's
happening to similar properties in your postcode area.
If you still need to do it, speak to the local estate agent at your earliest convenience. They are the ones with their fingers on the pulse. If you choose wisely, you will benefit from their experience of the buying and selling conditions. The longer-established agents are an excellent place to start.
However, be careful, it's the individual sat in front of you that holds the experience rather than the company. An estate agent with the most ‘for sale’ and ‘sold’ boards in your area is traditionally a decent barometer for the depth of experience you can expect.
How long are properties taking to sell? Are the prices currently being achieved? These are two standard questions sellers ask. First, always insist the estate agent shows you proof and check when the transactions took place. The market moves weekly; a property that sold 6 months prior is of little use.
Secondly, if a few properties have already taken your fancy as potential homes to
buy. In this case, ask what's happening in that market. 74% of our customers move within 25 miles, so with a network of offices in London & Kent, we cover the area you might wish to move to. The Robinson Jackson Group also have great connections with other estate agents around the country.
In a recent buyer survey*, 71% of our customers specified that they relied on a mortgage to buy their home. This means the advice given by a Financial Adviser needs to stack up with the moving advice offered by the estate agent. The sale price of your existing property, plus any borrowing required, has to equate to the home you wish to buy. A few thousand pounds out on one or more of the three factors can make a huge difference. In the extreme, a dream home will become financially unobtainable.
The mortgage market has been constant in the last decade. Still, as we sometimes witness, it only takes a minor change to make it less predictable. Changes to interest rates can be viewed in two ways. The effect
it has on your monthly repayments or the amount you can actually borrow and, therefore, the budget you have to spend on a property. Establishing your budget is essential when searching for a new home.
A further ingredient to the mortgage market is the volume and type of mortgage products made available by lenders. At times, there are thousands of products, all with different terms. The right product for you will depend on the deposit size vs the amount you wish to borrow and over what period, and most critically, how much you can afford each month.
An Independent Finance Adviser (IFA) has access to a broad selection of mortgage products from High Street lenders and lesser-known companies specialising in the mortgage sector. Customers who meet our IFAs, appreciate the convenience of an appointment at our offices within a relaxed atmosphere.
Wouldn't it be fantastic if you could get all the advice you need under one roof? We are delighted to offer such a service to all
our customers. Please drop in to see us or call today. You can expect dedicated time with our most experienced Sales Managers plus Financial Advisers. Additionally, we have Lettings Specialists available if renting a property is an option worth considering. Whomever you meet, they will offer you frank, honest advice. Sharing the opportunities within the market and any pitfalls you should be aware of.
When you choose to use our services, the advice is ongoing. This is again offered by the local team. Including our legendary Sales Progressors who guide thousands of movers through the legal stages of their sale and/or purchase. I will sound biased; the support our customers get is first-class. Indeed, receiving the 'Best Estate Agency Award' year after year speaks volumes for the personal service our customers receive.
When it’s your time to move, benefit from the experience you need all under one roof. Contact us today.
Maintaining a positive mindset is key when juggling work with a busy family life. Here’s our suggestions to help you feel refreshed, healthy and ready to face your day.
Get on your bike - With over 20,000 5* reviews, the Peloton bike remains a popular choice for home-based exercise. Taking up less space than a yoga mat, One Peloton gives you access to live strength, yoga, cardio and cycling classes, as well as an ‘on demand’ library. It also keeps track of your workout metrics, links to your favourite music and allows you to exercise no matter what the weather’s like. onepeloton.co.uk
Rest easy - If you frequently wake up tired and grumpy because you’ve been fighting with your pillow all night – it’s time to get a new one. Ergonomically contoured to give back and side sleepers head and shoulder support, this multi-award-winning ‘Groove Pillow’ may be what your dreams are made of. groovepillows.co.uk
Science to make you sleep - Do you or your teenager find it difficult to sleep or need a break from life’s overwhelm? Then take a look at the Headspace app. It’s packed with science-backed meditation and mindfulness tools that are proven to help you sleep and reduce stress by 14% in just 10 days. headspace.com
Feeding the family - Finding nutritious, minimal faff recipes the whole family loves can be challenging, especially if you all like different things. A new cookery book from Kent-based food writer and mum of 3, Anna Stanford, maybe the helping hand you need. Anna shares lots of recipes via her Instagram page - @annasfamilykitchen and with over 117k followers, they must be tasty!
Keeping fit with Fitbit - One of the best ways to keep yourself motivated to exercise or create healthier habits is to track your progress. There are so many fitness trackers to choose from, but the 2022 Which ‘Best Buy’ award went to the Fitbit Charge 4 for its accuracy, comfort and usability. It also has GPS and Fitbit Pay, so you can grab a pint of milk on your way home. Nifty! fitbit.com
If you are new to the selling process it will take around 3-4 months from start to finish. If you have moved before you will know that the process can be challenging but using an effective local estate agent can make all the difference.
Insist on local agents when it comes to an accurate valuation for your property. As the leading agent we will have the most up-to-date information about the market.
Select an agent based on their local reputation, sales track record and availability to offer guidance throughout the sales process. Avoid committing to upfront or deferred selling fees. These are most common amongst online-only agents, who will expect payment even if they do not sell your property. Seek an agent, like ourselves that offer a ‘No sale, No fee’ policy.
Appoint a solicitor who specialises in conveyancing. They will research the property, transfer legal ownership, coordinate contracts plus deposits and any mortgage funds.
A tidy, clutter-free property will make the best impression for marketing and viewings. Don’t forget to pay attention to your outside spaces.
Enquiries should happen as soon as your agent launches your property to the market, with internet listings, calls made to hot buyers and a slot in the agent’s window display.
The secret is to be flexible. Leave us a set of keys and we can conduct viewings during the day, evenings and weekends. Our branches are also open Sundays because it is so popular with busy buyers.
Carefully consider whether the amount offered helps you with your plans. When negotiations are needed, we will liaise with buyers on your behalf. We will also check their financial position to buy your property and ability to proceed.
The seller and your buyer will receive a ‘memorandum of sale’ once the offer is agreed. Ensure your agent has Sales Progressors; they will now effectively coordinate all parties.
This is the most significant event when selling. Once the contracts are signed and exchanged via the solicitors, and the deposit is paid, the buyer and seller are now legally bound to proceed through to completion.
Outstanding funds are released from the buyer’s to the seller’s solicitor. When all the monies have cleared, the new owner will normally collect the keys. If this is carried out via a local agent, the logistics tend to run much more smoothly.
If you are thinking of selling or curious about the current value of your property, our branch contact details are at the back of the magazine.
Landlords have benefitted for some time from a buoyant rental market, which is set to continue.
Recent surveys suggest 20% more tenants chasing 9% fewer available properties*. With demand outstripping supply, the economics are working in landlords' favour – however landlords, please watch out.
Suppose the cost of borrowing increases, plus the prices for maintenance and other charges rise? Your investment income could be quickly wiped out by your expenses if you don't plan your finances accurately. Here are my top 3 tips to maximise your return and avoid disappointment.
Whether you are purchasing an investment property or approaching the re-financing, the amount you outlay on mortgage repayments will significantly impact your return.
Landlords should seek independent financial advice before and indeed throughout the lifespan of their investment. Our Financial Advisers have specialised knowledge of the buy-to-let mortgage market. Plus, because they are an integral part of our lettings team, advisers are familiar with the costs associated with the upkeep of rental properties and work closely with Lettings Managers who identify what landlords can charge locally.
A further consideration for long-term planning is to consider most tenancy
agreements are now two years. So, you need to ensure the rent collected will cover likely charges for the 24 months and beyond. For example, planning might include your mortgage term, projecting the monthly rental income and estimates for future maintenance.
The longer tenancy, coupled with the rising cost of living, could adversely affect your buffer between the rental income and the expenses relating to your investment. Therefore, the tenancy agreement should include an annual rent review clause. Otherwise, the money received from your tenant will stay the same. Consequently, the income won't keep up with the outgoings, thus leaving you without a profit.
It is generally accepted that if people find it harder to buy a property, the lettings market's demand increases. An abundance of tenants per available rental property can lead some landlords to assume it's easy to find a tenant. If it doesn't work out, rip up the agreement and replace the old tenants with new ones. This is a cavalier approach that could land you in trouble.
Due diligence is the key to a successful tenancy. The days of relying on a face-value, gut feeling for a potential tenant is long gone. Mainly due to the improvements in the referencing procedures available to lettings agents. The lettings centres across the Robinson Jackson Group go much further to tick more boxes to introduce a high-quality tenant.
Sadly, we are called upon by landlords who personally undertake finding tenants and use tenancy agreements that they’ve downloaded online. Then run into trouble.
We recently helped a distressed landlord who hadn't used a letting agent, only to find his tenant fell behind on their rent. He didn't know how to rectify the situation.
On his behalf, we gained vacant possession and then found him a new, thoroughly vetted tenant who is now under an upto-date, legally compliant two-year rental agreement.
We are also called upon when landlords have yet to review their rents and find it awkward to approach the subject with their valued tenants. In such instances, it has become stressful with the gap between incoming and outgoing money at a crisis point. Stepping in as a neutral, I can liaise between both parties to establish rent increases without causing friction with the current tenant.
A tenancy doesn't always go smoothly. Either due to damage to the property or a change in the tenant's financial position. As part of our property management package, we regularly inspect landlord’s properties which will reveal any damage. Plus, we regularly check in with tenants to establish a relationship and see if there have been significant changes in their financial position.
In a 2022 industry report, almost half (46.5%) of tenants surveyed were concerned that changes in the economic climate could impact their ability to pay rent**. This is why our landlords are listening to our advice to take out Rent Insurance. Although it’s not a legal requirement, the policy will protect you against non-payment for up to 15 months, plus cover legal expenses. Even if a landlord opts for a ‘let only’ service, they can still benefit from the insurance product. For more information and to protect your rent, contact us today.
**Source: Goodlord - State of the Lettings
When letting out a property, you need to view it as a business. The property is not your home. It's a financial asset with governing rules, regulations, and expenses. Your tenants are your customers paying for your property's services. Like all businesses, give your customers a good experience whilst keeping your costs in check, and you will enjoy the profits.
Staying profitable is a delicate balance. Not least because lettings compliance and regulations are ever-changing. There are literally hundreds of rules related to tenancy agreements, health and safety, insurance, property maintenance etc., and every year presents new challenges.
A considerable amount of my team’s time is spent keeping abreast of changes to advise our landlords accordingly. This task can be overwhelming for independent landlords, and things get missed unless you have time at your disposal. It’s why nearly 70% of our clients choose a full management service. When your property is let and managed through the Robinson Jackson Group, the responsibility and time-consuming hassle falls to us.
Preparation and proactive management are essential. I see landlords losing money because they ignore regular maintenance of their properties. It’s easy to think, ”Oh, my property is in a habitable condition, and my tenant is paying the rent. What do I have to worry about?” However, you need to keep a constant eye on the condition of your property so what starts as a simple repair doesn't quickly turn into a costly issue. Some issues can even slip you behind the latest compliance, making the property illegal to let. A simple example is that rentals assessed under an 'E' Energy Rating cannot legally be marketed. (This is expected to be increased to a 'C' Energy Rating in 2025).
Refraining from regularly maintaining a property and a lack of communication with tenants are two of the biggest mistakes. We employ ten very busy, full-time Property Managers plus, twenty Lettings Agents and Financial Advisers. Who, by working collaboratively, provide professionally managed properties for content tenants and profitable landlords. Our supportive team is why we can proudly present an awardwinning lettings agency to the public.
We have the experience and expertise to help landlords plan for success. Contact us today for more information about our lettings services.
Whether it's early days, or your property has been on the market for an extended period, it is simple to switch agents and benefit from our services.
There are normally tell-tale signs when an agent is struggling to deliver results and it’s time for you to switch agents.
Things to watch out for 1. Requests to lower the asking price but subsequently no increase in the number of viewings for your property.
2. Lots of viewings but no offers being made by buyers.
3. Offers agreed but later withdrawn by buyers for no obvious reason.
If you have not yet sold your home, please do not get frustrated or give up. Time and time again we have been able to sell a property that has been on the market with another agent.
Once appointed, we will make the switching process straightforward and as speedy as possible. You will feel a sense of urgency once the team puts its energy into the sales and marketing behind your property.
The sales team makes hundreds of calls a day to prospective buyers. Our unique success is often due to the number of ‘hot buyers’ they are constantly talking to, compared with other agents. This is
particularly the case with online-only agents, who rely solely on responses from their property adverts on the internet – not the best way to get the best price in the quickest time.
The appointment of a high street estate agent like Robinson Jackson should instantly lead to a flow of fresh viewings.
The services we provide are backed by our transparent ‘No sale, No fee’ policy. This means switching to our services present zero financial risk to you.
Switching agents is simple – speak to us today. Contact details can be found at the back of the magazine.
If you have instructed another agent on a Sole Agency basis, the terms of these instructions must be considered.
“Introducing a selection of properties from each of our branches. They are perfect examples of the type of homes you can expect for sale across South East London & Kent.”
Village is arguably the Bexley Borough’s most aspirational residential address, characterised by its buzzing village centre and well-presented houses. Sometimes referred to as 'Old Bexley', the friendly, close-knit community of locals are loyal patrons of the independent shops that give this area unique charm and widespread appeal. I have been an estate agent in the area for more than 20 years and I’d be delighted to share my local property knowledge with you. ”
“Catford is one cool cat and not just because of the unmistakable feline sculpture that watches over the town. SE6 is an up-and-coming London neighbourhood with a refreshingly downto-earth feel. Vintage Fairs, an Art Deco
a film club and even its own gin festival are helping Catford reinvent itself on a fashionably regular basis, supported by a regeneration masterplan that is delivering a reimagined town centre. ”
“Dartford is a bustling commuter town that combines stunning Kentish countryside with great London connections. Buyers wanting bright lights and late nights can live in the centre of Dartford itself – while semi-rural villages, including Hartley, Horton Kirby, Longfield and Wilmington provide greener, more tranquil settings. I have covered the Dartford area for 12 years & lived here with my family for over 13 years. My children go to local schools, so I can share a lot of first hand local knowledge to any potential buyers & parents.
“It’s all change in Eltham as a £6.5-million revitalisation continues to deliver an improved high street. A multi-screen cinema and sky-bar complex adds a new leisure dimension, enhancing an already buzzy bar and restaurant scene. Eltham’s past, however, is just as bright as its future, spearheaded by Eltham Palace and the Tudor Barn. I have been working within Robinson Jackson for more than 15 years and was naturally delighted to lead the team at this terrific office.
“Vibrant, multicultural and with an exciting food scene, Lewisham represents fresh urban living. The town is emerging from a 15-year, £375-million regeneration that’s enhancing its Zone 2 status and residential credentials. Although the existing DLR station and 10-minute journey to London Bridge by mainline rail tick the travel boxes, it’s the proposed Bakerloo line extension that’s the talk of the town. I know the area intimately having worked here for over 20 years. Drop me a line if you ever require any help.”
is basking in the glory of a recent towncentre regeneration, with residents enjoying a new Odeon cinema, improved retail facilities and a glut of new restaurants. The town sits within the greenest borough in Greater London –Bromley – with over 160 parks to explore. I’ve been in charge at Orpington for many years, having worked across the Robinson Jackson Group since 1999. If you need any advice or local area information, myself or my team are on hand to help.
and Woolwich
at the forefront of South East London’s revival, with ongoing regeneration, the Elizabeth Line and a strong community spirit creating an unmistakable buzz. What’s more, there’s a collective determination to revitalise the social scene,
markets, independent
and quirky chains moving in. Having been an estate agent for over 20 years, I’m delighted to offer my property experience to clients who need any property advice. ”
flock to Rainham and Gillingham. Several sprawling country parks, riverside views and a super-fast train service to St Pancras in one direction and to the Kent coast in the other are joined by grammar schools and extensive shopping facilities. I have lived in the Medway area all my life and it is a pleasure to help people move into their dream home within my own community. If you need any help or advice, give me a call today. ”
as 41 minutes. I grew up in the area and I’d be delighted to share my local property knowledge with you. ”
“Sidcup is settling in to its new style, following an extensive town centre regeneration, and what better way to celebrate than with the opening of a number of micro breweries. But with real ale comes real life and Sidcup, together with its neighbour Blackfen, offers family-friendly living with a quick commute into London and an excellent choice of schools. My career began in 1994 and I’ve spent most of my two decades helping clients in the local market. ”
“Sittingbourne has recently stepped up its image by embracing a £46-million regeneration scheme, designed to create a ‘destination town’. The Spirit of Sittingbourne contained new apartments, an eight-screen cinema, new restaurants and an improved public realm – a vision already turning heads. I have been working in finance and estate agency for over 10 years now, and have built a very dedicated team to help you progress your move.”
“Stand by for something different in Strood, as a £1-billion, 20year redevelopment programme takes effect. The vision is for a healthy and vibrant town, with the creation of more than 16,000 new homes and 40,000 jobs. The masterplan will capitalise on Strood’s stunning waterfront location and excellent transport links. I grew up in the local area, so can provide a great insight into the local schools, and in recent years have developed a great understanding of the local property market. ”
“Swanley is a town that combines the best of urban facilities with the beauty of the Kent countryside. The bustling shopping district, with high street brands and a thriving weekly market, is set just minutes from a pick-your-own fruit field and plenty of farm shops. I have worked at Robinson Jackson for nearly 30 years and have been at the Swanley branch since the day it opened. Give me a call if you need any more information on the area, or an update on the local property market.”
corner of Kent is where exciting things happen. First came Bluewater, then Ebbsfleet International
station and now residents eagerly await a £3.5-billion theme park on the Swanscombe Peninsula. Excellent road links, leafy villages and some of Kent’s best new developments complete the picture. I have been an estate agent in and around Swanscombe & Greenhithe for more than five years, and I have lived in the local area all my life. If you have any questions, the team would be delighted to help.
fierce community spirit is what makes Sydenham so special, with the Sydenham Society ensuring the local vernacular is preserved. This is a town where artists, musicians, families and city professionals are friendly neighbours, with a thriving creative scene that includes an annual arts festival in celebration of books, theatre and music. The office was opened in 2005 especially for local people and we are proud to continue serving this community into the future. ”
its award-winning Danson Park and topperforming schools, Welling is a haven for families who need to balance a quick commute to London with a leafy suburban setting. Its bustling high street provides a community focal point, with the Cannon – a 36-pound Russian carronade – the town’s most recognisable landmark. I have worked in local area for many years, so if you have any questions about the local schools or commuting times, just ask. ”
What’s next...
“In the following section we detail the benefits our customers receive by using our services. We’d also like to introduce some of the staff who are available to share their experience with you.”
For selling turn to page 40. For lettings turn to page 52
In my experience
big plans often involve selling or buying a property, and in most cases both.
Perhaps you’d like extra space for your growing family or conversely wish to downsize now they’ve flown the nest. Or have you just been offered a new job opportunity and need to relocate, Or want to be closer to a great school in time for the new term to start?
Whatever your reason for selling, imagine if you couldn’t sell or it took too long, and consequently you missed out on a unique opportunity… it doesn’t bear thinking about.
For over 30 years our customers have put their trust in our experienced staff to guide them through the challenges of buying or selling a property, so they didn’t miss out. Take advantage of the opportunities presented to you and let's work together to make your big plans happen!
The Robinson Jackson Group has a reputation locally for effective selling. It’s the number one reason nearly 10,000 homeowners annually invite us into their properties.
The subsequent close relationship that develops between customers and ourselves regularly conclude with five-star reviews, and recommendations to friends and family.
While technology drives many changes in the property sector, the fundamentals of moving home remain constant. The process continues to be labour-intensive, timeconsuming and, due to the complexities, never guaranteed.
We currently employ over 200 fantastic staff members, many of whom have grown up in the local area and indeed around the company. This makes for a very special culture, where compassionate people are genuinely supportive towards others.
The Robinson Jackson Group's structure means we can utilise fantastic resources to promote our customers' properties, find you
the perfect home, plus guide you through the mortgage and legal processes.
We have always been customer-focused and will look after your best interests throughout. This is backed by our transparent ‘No sale, No fee’ policy – which means it’s zero financial risk to you.
In recognition of our leading results, marketing and customer care, we proudly display our ‘Best Estate Agent’ award. I hope this public survey gives you the added confidence to use our services.
The ability of an estate agent to deliver the best possible price for your property can vary greatly. Achieving the highest price starts with an accurate valuation.
When you initially request a valuation, you will benefit from our staff’s indepth knowledge of the local property marketplace and gain an insight into the prices currently being achieved.
The knowledge shared with you is gained from the superior volume of sales we are directly involved with. In addition to historical statistics, our customers gain a
greater understanding about the demand for similar properties we’ve recently sold.
Our heartland for sales has always been first-time buyers of one and two-bedroom flats, through to three and four-bedroom family houses. Increasingly, we are asked to sell much larger detached homes, so we can provide pricing advice right across the property spectrum.
When we launch your property, it will be in competition with others, so together we will establish an ‘initial marketing price’ then monitor enquiry levels. You may benefit from adjusting the price depending on buyers’ reactions. We will be honest with you from the outset and prefer not to ‘overvalue’ your property, which may lead to disappointment further down the line.
We negotiate more than 700 offers on properties we sell every month, plus negotiate on our customers' purchases –even if you are buying through another estate agent. Our customers find this an invaluable service as it can bring the sale and purchase prices closer. With the additional input from our independent mortgage advisers, this will help move your plans forward much more quickly.
Please be aware that online valuation tools should only be used for estimating a property’s value. The software used will not consider the condition of your home or current selling prices, and due to the lag in the Land Registry figures they can be out of date. Always contact a local estate agent for the most accurate valuation.
The Robinson Jackson Group is currently selling twice as many properties in half the time of the national average.
monitors Rightmove, Zoopla and our own website closely to maximise leads and build relationships with the thousands of buyers registering with us.
What makes us more effective when selling?
*
Selling a property should be a collaborative process, where we work with you on a sales proposal designed to complement your plans. The better we understand your requirements, the quicker we can start helping you achieve them.
In our experience, the quicker we can secure a quality buyer the quicker you can put forward a serious offer on a property if your plans include purchasing a new home.
With a sales force making hundreds of calls a day and arranging nearly 5,000 viewings a month, they could be speaking to your prospective buyer today. The team also
This kind of sales drive is always going to outperform the online-only approach, which relies solely upon inbound enquiries. If we are speaking to more buyers more regularly, it’s going to deliver faster, better results for you. Our continued growth in market share suggests the public appreciates this logic.
Even in today’s market, it's not uncommon for us to fully book viewings for the first available Saturday or Sunday and receive offers early the following week.
Once an offer is accepted, if you use our in-house mortgage advisers and recommended solicitors, we can normally shave additional weeks off the timings because we have greater control over the process. Details are on pages 62 and 64.
* The average time it takes for a UK property to sell is over 14 weeks. Source: Centre for Economics & Business Research (CEBR) / Post Office Money
• Open later on weekdays and all day Saturday & Sunday means we handle more leads and have the flexibility to conduct viewings at the most convenient times for busy people.
• 200 sales staff arrange 5,000 viewings a month, with local offices making hundreds of daily calls when launching new properties in order to secure immediate viewings.
• We offer accompanied viewings so you can get on with your daily life. Simply provide us with a set of keys so we can maximise more leads, create more viewings and sell your property quicker.
We guarantee that our friendly professional staff will be with you every step of the way.
It would be an exaggeration for any estate agent to suggest that their services magically remove the challenges associated with selling or make it completely stressfree. However, we can promise you the very best support from our staff.
To ensure you get professional guidance, our greatest investment is in our people –you will always have someone familiar to speak with or meet in person. Customers often comment on the quality and frequency of the team’s communication, and because they hold daily status meetings each member will know the latest information about your property and others for sale.
If you have bought or sold before you will appreciate that once an offer has been agreed, the period leading up to the
exchange of contracts can be frustrating and bewildering at times. This is where our dedicated Sales Progressors step in.
They will leave nothing to chance, providing you with regular updates so you feel comfortable that things are moving forward in line with your plans. If you don’t have much time, they will also prevent you from being drawn into coordinating other parties – something you might find unavoidable when using a smaller agent or an online company which operates remotely from a call centre.
The experience demonstrated by each Sales Progressor sets them apart. They have encountered all kinds of issues in the past and if they arise, they will help guide everyone towards an amicable solution. In fact, they are normally the glue that holds together a transaction, plus other related properties within ‘the chain’.
Don’t be surprised if you feel a special bond with your Sales Progressor; they are the most compassionate people in the industry and regularly receive thank you gifts from appreciative customers.
Between 30-40%* of properties that go under offer in the UK never actually complete. The due diligence we have in place limits the chances of this happening to our customers.
1. We will personally arrange viewings and control all sales negotiations. This ensures that all parties are clear about the price and the terms of the sale.
2. We assess a buyer’s financial position even before they book a viewing for your property. The rigour is then stepped up when they present an offer and we will insist on a formal proof of funds.
3. We also provide you with a personal Sales Progressor during the legal stages. No other agency offers such a unique service, which is invaluable if issues arise and professional advice is needed.
* One in three sellers have experienced an offer fall-through.
Source: Centre for Economics & Business Research (CEBR) / Post Office Money
Sales Progressor, Ebbsfleet
The marketing to promote your property will be designed to reach as many buyers or tenants as possible, using a combination of stunning imagery, highly targeted communications and the power of our branch network.
Even outside of business hours our marketing works hard to generate enquiries for customers’ properties. With clever technology in place our staff monitor the volume of leads generated to make strategic decisions. Particularly, across the internet and digital platforms.
Our results speak for themselves –what our customers say is equally as powerful. We are extremely proud of the feedback and we value the letters of thanks, Google reviews and even chocolates that are often given to us following a successful move.
“The process of letting my property a 2nd time through Chloe was super fast with excellent service. Had a handful of viewings arranged only after 2 days of the property being on the market with 2 offers coming in at the asking rent and then let agreed. The online viewing of the property advertisement was great with a detailed virtual video tour uploaded that nicely showcased it.”
Let through our Gravesend Branch
“The sales team did a fantastic and very professional service. I would not be able to sell my house without them. When my first buyers changed their mind and pulled out, my house was back on the market the next day, and sold again a week later. When the lender had a few issues with some works I had to have done, George got in touch with his electrician, and remedied the issues within very short time. The team always answers the phone, reply to emails, offer advice and support. Honestly, my decision to sell with Robinson Jackson was the best decision.”
Sold through our Belvedere Branch
“OMG what helpful staff at Robinson Jackson Bexley Branch. Nothing was too much for any of them and they helped me find the right buyer for my house. Cannot praise them enough :)”
Sold through our Bexley Branch
“If you have a house to sell I highly recommend RJ Blackfen. I have sold a number of houses over the years and I found Andy very honest when valuing my property. He knows the local market very well and tells you what your house will sell for, not what you might like to hear, unlike other estate agents. I found all the team from the branch were very professional during our viewings.
Once I had agreed the sale things only got better, in stepped Sam & Lauren from the progression team. They were on to both solicitors immediately with completion only taking around 8 weeks in total which is really brilliant in this climate.
As I said at the start I have bought and sold a lot of properties in the past, so I have dealt with a lot of estate agents. I have never seen such professionalism, honesty and just hard work from any estate agents before”
PAT Sold through our Blackfen Branch“I had originally purchased my flat through RMJ, so was already aware of them, however, they were also the most thorough and informative of the Estate Agents I spoke with prior to putting the flat on the market. They arranged a steady stream of viewings straight away, with an offer coming in within a few weeks. Unfortunately this offer fell through just before the UK became locked down, however, they were very quick to get the flat back on to market and I received a second offer within a couple of weeks of the market reopening. The agent kept in regular contact throughout, with updates on the sale, as well as my ongoing purchase, even though it was with a different Estate Agent. Would definitely recommend.”
Sold through our Chatham Branch
“Robinson Jackson have done an excellent job of selling my daughter's flat and supporting her through the whole process leading up to exchange of contracts yesterday. It has been fraught with difficulties largely because of the global pandemic, but all the staff have been calm and professional throughout.
A special shout-out for Carol Cope who has been absolutely fantastic. She has supported us so well, she communicates with all parties extremely professionally and effectively and she has had to demonstrate huge resilience during such a difficult time. Carol is an excellent asset and ambassador for Robinson Jackson.”
Sold through our Dartford Branch
“Rob and the team at Robinson Jackson were a pleasure to deal with throughout, from 'on sale' to completion they kept me fully informed and managed what was a difficult sale, with ease. Highly recommend this agency. A special mention to Saphire the sales progressor, very confident and reassuring.”
LILIAN MARSHALL
Sold through our Sydenham Branch
“If you want the best customer service and the best support during the whole sale & purchase process this is the agency you should sign up with. From the sales to the progression team, you just deal with committed professionals. 5 star indeed.”
PAUL EMEKWUEPurchased & sold through our Blackfen Branch
KATHRYN WAYLANDSold through our Strood Branch
“They had our house on the market within a couple of days and sold it on the first viewing! ”
Discover the benefits of property investment without the hassle. We help hundreds of ordinary people make the most of the buy-to-let property market.
Property: a familiar concept
Property investment is easier to understand than stocks, shares and pensions. A large part of our job is to provide the specialist expertise and support for anyone thinking of buying their first rental or expanding their buy-to-let portfolio.
Many people love the idea of property investment but worry that their day job, a hectic life and landlord duties may be too much to juggle – that’s where we step in. Working with our lettings specialists and property managers allows you to enjoy the benefits of buy-to-let investments without the unnecessary burden.
As your lettings partner, we take over the day-to-day running of your rented property and take care of anything that needs specific industry expertise, leaving you free to get on with life.
Our services include:
• Finding tenants & accompanied viewings
• Referencing & Right to Rent/ID checks
• Securing deposits & money handling
• Tenancy agreements
• Rent collection
• Tenant liaison
• Emergency maintenance on a 24/7 basis
• Rent guarantee insurance
• Independent financial & mortgage advice
With over 145 laws and regulations governing the private rental sector, and new rules being introduced all the time, keeping track and implementing changes is imperative. Choose full management, for complete peace of mind.
“Many landlords unwittingly break the law,” says Stuart Harris, our Lettings Manager North Kent. “We take over the legal
responsibility for every let we manage, making sure each one is compliant for our landlords. We also handle the more challenging aspects, such as debt control and the serving of legal notices.”
So why invest in property over stocks, shares or traditional pensions? The number of private renters has doubled in the last 20 years and demand remains extremely high, with almost one in five households in England renting privately.* These figures offer property investors encouragement that bricks and mortar remain a sound, long-term prospect.
Our professional team are available to discuss your investment options. We have a portfolio of properties, suitable for the rental market (see page 54) and regularly accompany landlords on viewings to assess the yield potential. If you already own a buy-to-let property, please take advantage of a free rental appraisal.
It’s our job to demystify the lettings process so you can enjoy your investment. To make life easier, our service covers the 10 steps below – don’t struggle to do it yourself, we can take care of everything for you.
1 Secure a buy-to-let mortgage
You’ll need proof of a deposit and be able to demonstrate the property you intend to buy will deliver a suitable yield. Speak to one of our Financial Advisers for the latest buy-tolet mortgage products.
2 Book a rental income appraisal
Find out how much rent your property could achieve in the current market. If you don't already own a buy-to-let, contact us for a great selection of investment properties.
3 Prepare your property for tenants
Carry out safety checks, arrange for the right certificates to be in place, take out landlord-specific insurances and undertake necessary maintenance.
4 Market your property
You’ll want to get a quality tenant moved in as quickly as possible to minimise void periods. Insist on high quality marketing across the best property websites. A good agent will also have pre-qualified tenants waiting to view your property.
5 Complete pre-tenancy administration
Undertake referencing, draw up a tenancy agreement and place a tenant’s deposit in a government-backed scheme.
6 Conduct an inventory Organise for the condition of your property and its contents to be independently recorded to safeguard against any potential damages caused by the tenant.
7 Maintain relationships during the tenancy Be available to tenants 24/7, should there be a query, an emergency or just a trivial question.
8 Carry out property inspections
Visit your property during the tenancy to establish its condition, and to check for signs of misuse or sub-letting.
9 Renegotiate tenancy renewals
Agree with the tenant to extend their stay or start the process to find replacement tenants.
10 Check-out and deposit recovery
If your tenant wishes to move out, conduct a final inspection and return the deposit, minus any damage deductions.
If you are thinking about investments or curious about the current rental income of a property, our letting contact details are at the back of the magazine.
Stuart Harris
Lettings Manager, Bexleyheath
As a group we employ more than 200 brilliant people in sales, lettings and customer services. They all have one thing that unites them – a passion for helping people to realise their dreams.
If you think you’ve got talent, enjoy speaking with people and feel that a role in an award-winning estate agency sounds interesting, then we’d love to hear from you.
Visit our careers section at robinson-jackson.com.
Even if you have been given a quote by a lender it is always worth meeting our advisers, as they may be able to save you money.
A mortgage decision needs to be quick if you’re searching for your next home – that’s why an independent mortgage adviser is available in all our offices. They can meet you in person and help establish a budget depending on your income and other financial commitments.
Our advisers may even be able to secure a mortgage agreement in principle for you during the appointment. This will give you the confidence to start looking for a property and demonstrate that you are a serious buyer.
Our financial services are open to everyone, whether you intend to use our estate agency or not.
Our customers include:
• First-time buyers
• Second-steppers
• Downsizers
• Those wishing to free equity
• Buy-to-let investors
• Owners remortgaging
Why do people use our advisers?
1. 'Independent' means customers have access to the whole of the mortgage market – apply for exclusive deals in addition to the products high street banks can offer. You get the best rate and conditions available.
2 Quick appointments, quick decisions. Request a same-day appointment and arrange an agreement in principle by the end of the meeting.
3. Meet a mortgage adviser face to face at a convenient location, rather than be directed to an impersonal call centre or a frustrating online application.
4. To save money, current borrowers look to remortgage via our advisers to take advantage of lower interest rates and fix their terms.
In addition to helping find you the best mortgage products, our advisers provide guidance on protection policies, such as life assurance, critical illness cover, income protection and property insurances.
Advisers also act as a safety net for both the estate agency and the seller. They pre-qualify buyers for us, making sure they have the finances to make a purchase. We may even seek advice before a buyer views a property. This identifies the best prospects, deters those not financially in a position to buy and shortens the selling process. The extra due diligence should provide you with greater peace of mind.
If you are a property owner, it is likely your current mortgage arrangements need to be renewed every 2-5 years. Speak to a Finance Adviser six months before your current mortgage deal expires. This will give you plenty of time to assess your options and choose the best product for you.
Call or meet a Financial Adviser within the convenience of a local branch. They will explain the remortgage process, present the available borrowing options, and help secure a mortgage product that meets your requirements.
Our Independent Financial Advisers have access to the widest selection of products from the leading lenders, plus mortgage providers not on the high street. Book an appointment today with your local branch.
After overseeing thousands of moves, I can honestly say that having an experienced solicitor in your corner is essential for a successful sale or purchase.
The solicitors at Cook Taylor Woodhouse (CTW) have one common goal – to get clients through exchange and completion as smoothly as possible. It’s a goal we share with the Robinson Jackson Group, having enjoyed a working relationship for more than a decade.
The Robinson Jackson Group stands out for its Sales Progression service (read more about this on page 50) and this makes
life easier for our solicitors and customers alike. Their Sales Progressors work closely with our team to monitor progress, ensure all paperwork is supplied, and coordinate everyone in the chain. It’s this dedicated single point of contact that has the potential to shave weeks off the process, resulting in a quicker completion and moving date.
If you have bought or sold a property in the past, you will appreciate that legal issues can arise. CTW’s vast experience means that we can quickly and professionally resolve any issues before they have a chance to escalate. Our team will try and keep things as straightforward as possible and you can be confident that the contracts you sign will be in order.
We are one of the country’s top-10 law firms (based on conveyancing transactions) and
we have three regional offices covering South East London and Kent. With roots going back 100 years, and a staff force of over 150 staff we currently assist almost 10,000 customers to move home annually. CTW offers a cost-effective service and, unusually for the legal profession, our fees are fixed and offered to you on a ‘No Sale, No Fee’ basis.
Ask a member of the sales staff in your local branch for a FREE quote and CTW will send you an information pack. This includes a quote for fees and stamp duty, if relevant.
• Lease Extensions
• Shared Ownership/New Build
• Wills
• Probate
• Commercial Conveyancing
We help almost 10,000 customers move home every year, which makes us one of the country’s top-10 law firms.*
When you find your perfect property, our team of solicitors will take care of all the legal work. This includes local searches and surveys, contracts of purchase and leasehold agreements, if necessary. Our customers benefit from cost-effective services and, unusually for the legal profession, our fees are fixed and offered to you on a 'No Sale, No Fee' basis. Request a FREE quote and further information today.
Sales - 01322 340000
Sales - 01322 441010 Lettings - 01322 292805 belvedere@robinson-jackson.com 61 Nuxley Road, Belvedere, Kent, DA17 5JN
Sales - 01322 559900
Lettings - 01322 292805 bexley@robinson-jackson.com 77 Bexley High Street, Bexley, Kent, DA5 1JX
Sales - 020 8298 7000 Lettings - 020 3409 4255 bexleyheath@robinson-jackson.com 124 Broadway, Bexleyheath, Kent, DA6 7DQ
Sales - 020 8698 1234
Dartford
Sales - 01322 281281 Lettings - 01322 292805 dartford@robinson-jackson.com 22 Market Street, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1EZ
Sales - 020 8859 9600 Lettings - 020 3084 0000 eltham@robinson-jackson.com 2-4 Court Yard, Eltham, London, SE9 5PZ
Sales - 01474 333111
Lettings - 01474 333111
gravesend@robinson-jackson.com
21A & B King Street, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 2EB
Sales - 020 8297 8777 Lettings - 020 3084 0000
lewisham@robinson-jackson.com
27 Lewis Grove, Lewisham, London, SE13 6BG
Sales - 01622 476666 Lettings - 01622 476666 maidstone@robinson-jackson.com 15A King Street; Maidstone Kent ME14 1BA
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