WINNER Debbie Fortune Estate Agents, Mark Hayward

Had you entered The Negotiator Awards before?
Yes we entered and won New Estate Agent of the Year 2010. We started in 2009 at the bottom of the market so were thrilled to become best new agent nationally in our second year.

What made you decide to enter?
We used our 2010 award extensively in our advertising and as a new company it really helped us to gain instructions and market share as it differentiated us from the competition.

How long did it take to complete your entry?
It took us two to three weeks on and off to get it complete, then we decided to enter two more as the deadline was extended.

Were you ‘confident’ – or even ‘sure’ that you would win – or was it a complete surprise?
We are a little single office only three years old, up against a lot of big agents with more experience and more resources so we did not think we had much of a chance. However a small office can be more flexible and in the end it is down to shear enthusiasm which we hope we put over to the judges.

“We used our 2010 Award extensively in our advertising and it really helped us gain instructions.” Mark Hayward Debbie Fortune Estate Agents

What were your feelings on the night when your name was announced as a winner?
We were the fi rst up! To beat some big boys like Marsh and Parsons felt fantastic and to be runner up on Best Agent in the 1-2 office category gives us the recognition we must be doing something right.

How did your staff react to the news?
Another award-yawn. Not exactly, we were texting them during the ceremony everyone was so excited they all want to come to London next year.

Have you issued a press release about your success this year?
Of course the same week and it has been published with photos.

Have you incorporated your ‘win’ into your marketing materials?
Yes on newspaper straplines.

What benefits do you believe the accolade will bring you?
Shows we care about our community and supporting it. We do put back what we get out.

Would you recommend other agents to enter The Negotiator Awards?
No, because we do not want any more competition.