Is this new style of agency the answer to the industry’s problems?

A former Chestertons sales director, Nick Carter has launched Harding Green, a US-style estate agency in central London which, he claims, will be unique way of selling and letting property in the UK. The business will run a central office but instead of staff, the company’s Associates will be self-employed and individually responsible for between 15 and 20 properties for sale or to let. The Associates will be able to either work alone or in pairs and manage between 30 and 40 properties, and choose between several commission structures. This includes receiving a salary and 20% of the commission or working without a salary and taking up to 75% of any commission. Harding Green says it is looking for agents who have a minimum of five years’ experience in the London market in sales or lettings. Kensington office In return, Associates will receive leads from – and be supported by – the firm’s Kensington office including the usual admin, IT and marketing services. This will include advertising and public relations campaigns. The company says each Associate or pair of Associates will remain the sole point of contact for each client from start to finish and therefore be able to dedicate…