One of Cumbria’s most successful businessmen is investing in Lakes Estates, the new estate agency that aims to change the way people see estate agents.
Michael Seggie, who runs the vehicle leasing business Leaseyournewcar.co.uk, has taken a substantial stake in Lakes Estates alongside Rob Anderson and Glenn Howard who founded the estate agency last year.
Michael said: “I wanted to diversify my business portfolio and I’ve always had an interest in property. I heard about the opportunity through a business associate, liked the sound of it and saw the potential.
“Once I met Glenn and Rob it was pretty much a done deal.
“Their fresh approach came across, very much sales-led and not one-size-fits-all. I can help them by taking on the day-to-day running of the business, freeing them up to source, value and sell properties.”
Lakes Estates’ flexible fee structure sets it apart. Almost all estate agents charge either a percentage fee or a flat rate. Lakes Estates does neither.
Rob explained: “Why should a vendor pay more just because their house is worth more? Before we take on a property, we sit down with the vendor, work out what we need to do to sell it and agree a fee accordingly.
“If it’s a unique property, we might ask a digital agency to create a micro-website and run a digital marketing campaign. And we use modern, visual marketing methods such as video and drone footage.
“We give the best level of service humanly possible to build a close relationship with the client. We want to change the way people see estate agents.”
Glenn said that he and Rob were thrilled to have Michael on board.
He added: “He brings business acumen. He’s a good salesman who has built a solid business in a very competitive market. He’s a bit of a visionary.
“Rob and I both come from senior positions in estate agency but we don’t have experience of running a business day to day. That’s where Michael can support us. His involvement is a positive step that opens doors for the future.”
Lakes Estates began trading from an office in Devonshire Arcade, Penrith, in summer of last year handling property sales across the county.
There are plans to expand by recruiting agents with extensive local knowledge as associates. The first, Matthew King, an experienced estate agent from Brampton near Carlisle, joined in the spring.
To find out more about Lakes Estates’ unique offer, check out the Lakes Estates website or call 01768 639300 or 01228 272838.
