Former BBC Look North presenter Christa Ackroyd is making waves in West Yorkshire's property scene with her new video production venture. The 69-year-old media personality has been creating engaging social media content for Hunters estate agency in Otley, showcasing local properties to potential buyers.
Ackroyd has already produced two videos for the agency and expressed interest in collaborating with other estate agents in the future. Speaking about her new role, she said: "I love houses and renovations, so it's a perfect fit for me. At 69, I'm thrilled that people may still feel I have something to offer."
This move comes after Ackroyd's departure from the BBC in 2013, following an HMRC investigation into her tax arrangements. She was found liable for up to £420,000 in tax and National Insurance contributions, having been misclassified as self-employed under IR35 rules. The case highlights the complexities of IR35 regulations, which have affected numerous media professionals across the UK.
Hunters Otley approached Ackroyd after discovering her passion for property, with agency director Lester Hurst commenting: "We've all watched Christa on TV for years. When we found out about her love of houses, we thought it'd be a great idea to showcase our properties in video form." The videos have reportedly generated significant interest, although the agency has not disclosed specific metrics on property viewings or sales conversions.
Ackroyd's move into property video production reflects a growing trend within the sector, with agencies investing in video content and social media strategies to market properties. As larger agencies navigate complex regulatory landscapes, smaller regional firms are exploring innovative marketing approaches to stand out in a competitive market.