The UK residential property sector is undergoing a significant transformation as top professionals abandon traditional agency roles in favour of innovative brokerage and franchise models. At the forefront of this shift are experienced agents seeking greater control, flexibility, and autonomy in their work, often backed by national brands and cutting-edge technology.
Andrew Farmer, a veteran estate agent with over 25 years' experience, has joined Moveli after nearly two decades as a director at Hamptons. His expertise in the Kent property market reflects a growing trend among senior agents opting for brokerage models that balance independence with robust national support. Ben Littlewood, co-founder of Moveli, explained that the firm attracts professionals seeking to run their own businesses while leveraging a recognised brand and operational infrastructure.
Sourced Living, a lettings franchise network, has bolstered its support team with Nicola Edwards as Business Development Manager. This follows a period of rapid expansion for the network, which has welcomed 16 new franchisees this year. Edwards' role will focus on business development and compliance assistance, particularly through the company's Assisted Acquisition Programme, which aids in purchasing existing lettings agencies and property portfolios.
Meanwhile, Principle has expanded its presence in the North West by opening a Manchester office, with Matt Kirk appointed as Property Director for the region. A seasoned professional with approximately 20 years of experience in residential property management, Kirk previously spearheaded Rendall & Rittner's Northern operations expansion. Principle aims to manage over 5,000 homes across the North West by 2028 and has secured an initial instruction for Urban Splash’s Albert Mill conversion in central Manchester.
These strategic moves underscore a sector in flux as professionals respond to changing market conditions and personal preferences. The rise of self-employed models among seasoned agents, coupled with franchise network expansion into regional markets, suggests a re-evaluation of traditional high-street operations in favour of more agile and supported independent structures.