ARNOLDS DIRECTION CLEAR IN A CONFUSED RESIDENTIAL MARKET

Never have there been so many conflicting signs about the future of residential property prices and the health of the market in general.

The Government and the Bank of England have obviously been concerned at increasing prices and, as a result, have imposed hikes in mortgage interest rates which have, admittedly, had an effect of dampening the market down and slowing the onward march of prices.  The Stock Market, too, has suffered turbulence but I believe that the underlying strengths in that Market and the residential property market means that both are able to withstand and recover from volatility, whatever the cause.
 
Some agents have reduced staffing levels, cut back on advertising and are generally grumpy about the future prospects for the market and their own businesses.  Not so Arnolds!!
 
For example our Norwich residential office is well ahead of last year’s performance and, in August, sold twice as many houses as in August 2006.  Hardly a depressed market then!!
 
Our offices at Wroxham and Eaton have also had a successful start to the year  with Wroxham sales, as an illustration, achieving record levels in July and income for this year almost 50% up on the same period last.  Eaton have also got off to a good start and, to a degree, are suffering the consequences with a comparative shortage of stock because a high proportion of their listed properties are sold!!
 
Why should it be therefore that some agents are not doing well and yet Arnolds are enjoying success, with smiles on faces…. of both clients and staff ?  The answer lies in the quality of the work undertaken, the quality and proffesionalism of the staff employed and the commitment of all in ensuring it is the client that comes first and that we all strive to achieve the best results we can on their behalf.  This is recognised by the fact that, for the last measured twelve month period, 100% of clients responding to post sale questionnaires, rated the quality of our service as good or very good (the top two levels of assessment), also confirmed by many words of praise from happy customers.
 
In today’s more complex and demanding markets vendors need the experience, skills and professionalism that Arnolds offer.  In simple terms when markets get more difficult Arnolds quality shines through like a beacon.
 
If you are thinking of selling or simply require a free valuation do please give us a call.  If you have any doubts read through the letter below which our client Sara Lock has kingly agreed we can publish.
 
 
 
David Richardson FRICS
david.richardson@arnolds.uk.com

September 2007

Easton, Norwich

July 19th 2007

The Partners of
Arnolds Chartered Surveyors
34-36 Prince of Wales Road
Norwich NR1 1LH

Dear Sirs

I am writing to express my gratitude for the wonderful service and kindness I have received during the sale of my house and my purchase of Mxxxx Road, Norwich.

Paul Rowe came out and put this house on the market at a very difficult time for me, he was efficient, good humoured and positive throughout, and made everything much easier.

Your residential sales team has been brilliant, keeping me informed all the time, and their kindness and enthusiasm has helped me enormously.

And when I rang Johanne Freedman in desperation, because I had pulled out of the purchase of a house with just a fortnight before completion on this one, she was totally brilliant.  She offered me the house in Mxxxx Road, arranged for me to view it at very short notice, and has been so kind and helpful all the way through.  Due to her, and her recommendation of a very speedy solicitor, I have already exchanged contracts and expect to complete next Monday 23rd.  (Which is just a fortnight).  Johanne has really gone ‘the extra mile’ for me, and her kindness and efficiency has made a huge difference during such a difficult time.  I really don’t know how to thank her, Paul, Michelle and all the others enough, but I would like you to know what a wonderful team you have there, and to pass on my gratitude for their help.

With best wishes to all of them,
Yours truly,

Sara Lock

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