The agent, who wishes to remain anonymous, gives a detailed run-down of her treatment by managers at Spicerhaart including unexplained and significant deductions from her final payslip.

Paul Smith says his phased approach is giving his company time to train staff and install plastic screens and other equipment in branches.

Keller Williams says 45% came from outside the industry while the rest are former agents from several high profile firms including Purplebricks, Dexters, Spicerhaart and PerryPower.

Roofing firm says it is shocked that a £123m turnover firm like Spicerhaart is leaning on its suppliers to accept lower payments than original invoiced for.

Poll of agents finds that pandemic has been a game changer after many staff have realised they can do their jobs, or large parts of their daily activities, from home.

Paul Smith responds to our article in which an insider claimed the company was preparing to adopt a Purplebricks-style self-employed model at some branches.

Company insider tells The Negotiator that the agency group is looking at one of its key expenses - branches - as it tries to cut costs once the lockdown has ended.

The Negotiator talks to one estate agency boss about his experiences since Coronavirus struck in earnest, including his decision to furlough its 17 staff.