Brad Hansford joined Meyers Estate Agents as a self-employed franchisee for Shaftsbury in September 2019. He now runs the successful agency from home with his partner Tamsin Bell.

Brad explains: “Ever since I found my way into the estate agency world at the tender age of 18, I knew it was the job for me! Previously, I had been an agent in my area for nearly 10 years working as a branch manager for Connell’s plus an independent called Morton New.

“Then came the time to spread my wings and try things my own way. I had always been fond of the idea of setting up my own agency and with some guidance, Meyers gave me exactly that opportunity.

“The core values that Meyers has were the perfect replica of what I had in mind for my own business: ensuring all clients have a smooth, friendly and professional transaction with the highest levels of personal service when dealing with us. Meyers’ marketing methods and innovative style of agency – where franchised agents work from home – sets us apart from the rest. Low overheads mean we can offer better marketing and service including the 24/7 availability, a unique 21 step to sale process and flexibility to give back to the community, with charity work and contributions frequently arranged in conjunction with local businesses.

“We have been in business nearly 18 months now through what have been some of the most challenging times in recent history and business is exceptional, even amid the Covid crisis. In the first five months of 2021 alone, we agreed sales on just shy of £9 million worth of property.

“The secret to our success is simple, it’s about putting our clients first. As a family run business, we also aim to be approachable. I’m just a ‘normal’ guy with honesty, integrity and passion to sell property. I always tell my clients it’s in my interest to get the best price for their property and to sell it quickly, as unlike corporate agency personnel, I don’t earn a salary until it’s sold!

“Managing our own business means we can be flexible and the clients really appreciate this. I’m happy to answer queries at 8pm at night if that’s the best time for the client to talk. Or I can do a viewing at 7.30pm if needed. The franchise is flexible so we can take a few hours off in the day if necessary. Unlike a high street agency, we are not ‘chained to our desks’ even if there are no walk-ins! As a result of our customer focus, 75% of our clients come from recommendation.

While we are ambitious, we also believe it’s important to provide support and to give back to the community who support us and so we’ve been involved in several local charity projects too. Including

The Blackmore Vale Partnership (Local Doctor Surgery) supporting those with mental health problems; The Headstrong Project, a local group who support men’s mental health and also the Meyers’ award-winning GAP project in association with the mental health charity Mind’s Dorset branch The GAP Project Ecotherapy ⋆ Dorset Mind Mental Health.

We are part of a British estate agency landscape revolution, moving away from the high street and passing these benefits onto our clients with more investment into better marketing and helping the community at the same time. In a short time, we have been able to show how it’s possible to have a thriving estate agency business with low overheads and also an authentic interest in the wellbeing of the people of the communities in which we work and make a great living enjoying what we do.

Mark Meyer, CEO, Meyers Estate Agents: “Brad has been a great example of how to build a win, win, win, win business.

• A win for our brand – such a great brand ambassador as well as bringing in some new and fresh simple ideas to drive our brand forward.
• A win for Brad who can find a great work life balance and build the life he always wanted.
• A win for the client who has personal service and a reputable and reliable, high performing agent helping them with their move.
• A win for estate agency UK – turning the tide on low value/low quality estate agency reputation.

“Well done Brad, long may your success continue!”