We often say we do estate agency differently.
But what does that actually mean in practice?
As founding members of the Ethical Agent Network, and part of its advisory panel, it’s not just a badge we carry. It’s a set of standards we’re held to, and more importantly, a set of promises we make to you.
And these aren’t marketing lines or nice words for a website. They shape how we work, every single day.
What is the Ethical Agent Network?
The Ethical Agent Network is a national group of independent estate and letting agents who are assessed against strict professional and ethical standards.
It isn’t something you can simply join.
Membership has to be earned, proven and maintained. And it can be taken away.
Only one agent per area is accepted, and every member has to demonstrate that they are already operating at a consistently high standard before being invited in.
At the heart of the network are seven promises. Not to each other. To you.
The seven promises that guide everything we do
We will always act in your best interests
Not when it suits us. Not when it’s convenient. Always. Every decision flows from this principle.
We will be honest, even when it’s difficult
You deserve clear, straightforward advice, even if it’s not what you were hoping to hear. Overpromising is easy. Honesty builds trust and better outcomes.
We will do the right thing, even when it costs us
Ethical decisions are not always the most profitable in the short term. That doesn’t change the fact they’re the right ones to make.
We will never publicly criticise other agents
Standards aren’t raised by talking others down. They’re raised by consistently doing better work.
We will work collaboratively
As part of the network, we share knowledge, ideas and best practice. A stronger industry benefits everyone, especially our clients.
We will commit to continuous improvement
The market evolves, and so should we. That means constantly learning, refining and improving the service we offer.
We will support our local community
This isn’t a tick-box exercise. It’s a genuine, ongoing commitment to the people and places we work within.
What it takes to be part of it
Making those promises is one thing. Proving them is another.
To become a member, agents must show a consistent track record of excellent service, including a strong base of verified client reviews.
They must demonstrate real involvement in their local community.
And they must pass a detailed interview process with an independent advisory panel made up of some of the most respected agents in the country.
Not everyone makes it through.
Why this matters when you’re choosing an agent
When you sell or let a property, you’re placing a significant amount of trust in the person representing you.
You’re trusting them with your finances, your time and often a major life decision.
That’s why standards matter.
For us, being part of the Ethical Agent Network isn’t something we mention at the end of a conversation. It sits at the centre of how we operate.
It’s why we give honest advice on pricing, even when it’s not the easiest option.
It’s why we focus on finding the right buyer or tenant, not just the quickest one.
And it’s why many of our clients come back to us or recommend us to others.
Because in the end, estate agency isn’t just about property.
It’s about people, trust and doing the right thing when it matters most.
If you’re considering a move and want to work with an agent who is held to a higher standard, we’re always here for a straightforward, no-pressure conversation.
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
