Location is a key factor to the success of a leading Basingstoke estate agent (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Location is a key success factor for leading estate agents Sansome & George based in Basingstoke's Top of The Town

1:02pm Thursday 27th September 2012 in Business By Richard Garfield

AS ANY estate agent knows, location matters – and that is why the team at a Basingstoke business are very happy in their new home.

Sansome & George Estate Agents has relocated its head office from Tadley to Basingstoke’s Top of The Town .

Delighted with the three-storey doubled-fronted premises, in Winchester Street, managing director David Sansome said: “We wanted the best location possible and we feel we are in a fantastic spot – it’s a great spot to promote our clients’ properties.

“The amount of people who stop and look in through the windows is incredible. This office also showcases properties available through our other offices in Tadley, Bramley, Kingsclere and Mortimer, which helps with our viewing levels.”

For instance, he said, anybody walking into the Basingstoke office will be able to view the details of properties available through the Tadley office and vice-versa.

“That’s one thing that we feel makes us unique in this marketplace,” said David.

Clearly delighted with the new premises, where David expects to employ up to 12 people – most of which will be new positions – he added: “I think this shows our commitment to the Basingstoke marketplace.”

Despite the uncertainties of the property market nationally David is upbeat. “We are very busy. We’re growing and we’re looking at new offices, with new staff coming on board.”

David and his team have certainly been busy overhauling the firm’s branding and marketing material as well as its website sansomeandgeorge.co.uk. “The market is tough at the moment,” said David. “But because we have increased exposure and marketing were are finding that we are delivering results. All of the guys working in our offices are working hard and I think that has shown with our figures.

“We are still performing and looking to grow, and I think that’s only coming through hard work and persistence.

“You can’t be reactive, you have to be proactive – you can’t sit there and wait for the market to come to you. It’s about going out there and finding buyers for your vendors’ properties.”

And starting this week Sansome & George has teamed up with the Mortgage Advice Bureau, where Trevor Absolom and Jason Madge will be on hand to give sound advice.

Trevor said: “This is the first time we have branched out into Hampshire and we are very excited. Basically, we offer all- round financial advice to help clients make sure they can afford a property, find out what sort of deposit they can offer, and make sure the mortgage they take out is protected.

“I think it is imperative that people come in and actually arrange their finances before they go out and make an offer on a property. This way they put themselves in a strong position by being able to work out exactly what price range they can afford. This makes the whole process a lot smoother for the clients, Sansome & George and the seller.”