Letting & Estate Agent Podcast
Christopher Watkin
The Letting & Estate Agents Podcast
Having worked for some of the biggest names in the industry, Christopher now offers advice, actions and opinion in helping letting and estate agents grow their lettings and estate agency's. Christopher has proven methods on how to attract landlords and house sellers and helps many agents, using a technique that is designed (if implemented correctly) to grow any agency's turnover by at least 20% to 30% year on year. Its hard work and it requires buckets loads of patience though
Having worked for some of the biggest names in the industry, Christopher now offers advice, actions and opinion in helping letting and estate agents grow their lettings and estate agency's. Christopher has proven methods on how to attract landlords and house sellers and helps many agents, using a technique that is designed (if implemented correctly) to grow any agency's turnover by at least 20% to 30% year on year. Its hard work and it requires buckets loads of patience though
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 28, 2025 • 10min
Will ROPA increase Estate Agency fees? - Ep. 2248
Will ROPA Increase Estate Agency Fees? A Must Listen Discussion with Russell Quirk.
In this episode, Russell Quirk, one of the most well known (and controversial) voices in the UK property sector, discusses the potential impact of ROPA on estate agency fees. Russell explores how the introduction of licensing and raising industry standards could lead to better services, higher fees, and improved accountability for agents.
He argues that, just like in any other industry, if you offer a higher quality service, you can charge more, and this could be the catalyst for a much needed overhaul in the UK property market. But it’s not just about passing exams; it’s about ensuring proper training, better compliance, and enforcing real accountability that could elevate the entire profession.
With outdated legislation and lower fees compared to other countries, Russell explains how licensing could be the change that leads to better outcomes for both estate agents and clients.
Listen now to hear Russell’s perspective on why licensing could not only improve standards but also help agents charge the fees they truly deserve.

Jun 27, 2025 • 1h 6min
UK Property Market Stats Show - Week 24 2025 - Ep.2247
🔥 UK PROPERTY MARKET STATS – WEEK 24 ROUND-UP 🔥
Short. Sharp. What you need to know.
📅 Week Ending: 22nd June 2025
🎙️ Guest: Ben Madden, West London Estate agent
🎥 Watch: The UK’s weekly YouTube stats show – don’t fall behind
https://youtu.be/GeaT_GocwW4
✅ Listings:
37.7k new homes listed this week (37.6k last week)
2025 YTD up 5% on 2024, 7.7% higher than 2017/18/19 average
(894k YTD listings vs 852k listings YTD in ’24)
✅ Price Reductions:
26.8k this week (27.4k last week)
14% of stock reduced monthly. That’s rising.
Long-term average? Just 10.6%.
✅ Sales Agreed:
28.3k sales agreed this week (up from 28.1k prior week)
2025 YTD sales +8.2% on 2024, +16% on pre-Covid average
✅ Sell-Through Rate (Monthly)
May 2025: 16.1% of resi stock went SSTC
Previous month: 15.36%
Still under the 8-year norm of 17.9% – but heading in the right direction
✅ Fall-Throughs:
6,570 fall-thrus last week from 479k sales pipeline
Weekly fall-thru rate: 23.2% (below 7-year average of 24.2%)
Far cry from the 40%+ chaos post-Truss
✅ Net Sales:
21.7k net sales this week (same as last week)
2025 YTD: +6% on 2024, +11.2% on 2017–19
✅ % homes that go thru to exchange:
May 2025: 51.7% of homes that left the market exchanged
The rest? Unsold & withdrawn.
✅ Stock Levels:
On the market: 756k – up 9% on last year
In Sales pipeline: 480k – up 4.35%
✅ £/sq.ft:
Sales agreed in May 2025 averaging £346.25/sqft
Up 1.5% on 2024, 1% on 2022
✅ Rentals:
May 2025: 304k UK rental homes
Average rent: £1,811
(Compared to 321k homes at £1,733 in May 2024)

Jun 26, 2025 • 6min
Does size matter in Estate Agency? - Ep. 2246
Does Size Really Matter in Estate Agency?
In the fast evolving property market, the traditional advantage of being a large agency is rapidly diminishing. Ian Preston, estate agent at Preston Baker and CRM expert, joins us to discuss how technology, particularly AI and automation, is changing the landscape for agencies of all sizes.
While large corporates have historically had the edge, especially when it comes to better deals with property portals, the game is changing. AI is now allowing agencies, no matter their size, to handle tasks like automated viewing feedback, lead management, and even prospecting with ease. But it’s not just about automation; it’s about customising your technology to reflect your brand’s voice and personality.
Ian reveals how smaller agencies can stay competitive by leveraging these tools, ensuring they don’t miss out on opportunities just because they don’t have hundreds of offices. The future of estate agency is about working smarter, not harder, and face to face interactions will remain at the heart of the business, even as technology takes over routine tasks.
Listen now to discover how embracing AI and CRM can help your agency thrive in the digital age.

Jun 25, 2025 • 4min
Are you an authentic Estate Agent? - Ep. 2245
Why Authenticity is the Key to Estate Agency Success!
In today’s property market, standing out is more important than ever. But how do you connect with clients in a way that builds lasting trust and credibility? In this episode, marketing expert Reena Patel shares why being authentic is the game changer every estate agent needs.
Reena, who previously led marketing at Belvoir before starting her own agency, discusses how transparency and honesty are at the heart of every successful marketing strategy. It’s not about looking perfect or creating polished content, it’s about sharing real insights and showing up as yourself. Reena admits that getting in front of the camera was terrifying, but it’s the best way to build that crucial rapport with your audience. People can tell when you’re being genuine, and that’s what keeps them coming back.
Throughout this episode, Reena also tackles the common fear of online trolls and negative feedback. She shares simple, effective ways to handle criticism professionally without letting it get in the way of your message.
If you're ready to step up your marketing game and show the world who you truly are, this episode is a must listen. Tune in, and let us know how you embrace authenticity in your agency's approach!

Jun 24, 2025 • 8min
Are there too many Estate Agency Gurus? - Ep. 2244
Are Estate Agency ‘Gurus’ Helping or Hindering Your Business?
In this episode, we sit down with Dan Marsden, an expert in maximising the value of unmodernised probate property sales. Together, we tackle a pressing issue in the estate agency world, whether the so called ‘gurus’ offering the latest trends and tricks are truly delivering value, or just adding to the noise.
Dan pulls no punches as he shares his experiences, highlighting how many of these so called experts fail to deliver real, measurable results. Instead of buying into the latest shiny solution, he argues, it’s essential to ask the tough questions and focus on what’s proven to work.
This is a must listen for estate agents who want to cut through the hype, stay grounded, and ensure their business is built on solid foundations. Tune in, and don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments!

Jun 23, 2025 • 29min
Getting inside Chris Watkin's head - Ep. 2243
Unlocking Team Potential: How Understanding Behaviour Can Boost Your Estate Agency!
In this episode, I’m joined by Tracey Thompson, an expert in estate agency training and talent strategy. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Tracey is a master at helping estate agents and teams unlock their full potential. Using Insights Discovery, she reveals how understanding the different ways people think and behave can dramatically improve your team’s performance.
Through this conversation, Tracey explains how a simple but powerful behavioural model can uncover key strengths and weaknesses within a team. It’s not just about sales skills; it’s about understanding the personal dynamics that make a team tick. Chris Watkins even undergoes a live analysis, giving you a real look into how the process works and how it can benefit your agency.
If you’re looking to build a high performing team or sharpen your leadership skills, this episode offers valuable insights. Understanding how your team behaves, communicates, and interacts with each other could be the key to unlocking their success.
Listen now to see how small behavioural tweaks can lead to big results for your agency. And if you’ve enjoyed this, be sure to share your thoughts in the comments or share it with others in the industry.

Jun 22, 2025 • 7min
Estate Agents shouldn't bother with a Personal Brand - Ep. 2242
Why Personal Branding Might Be a Waste of Time for Estate Agents | Rob Graves Shares His Secrets...
In this episode, estate agent coach Rob Graves reveals why personal branding might not be as crucial as many believe in the property industry. As a former estate agency director turned coach, Rob shares his experience on building a business that works for you, not the other way around.
Rob explains why focusing on growing a strong lettings book or improving your business systems could be more valuable than investing time and money into a personal brand. He talks about how personal branding can sometimes become an ego trip, rather than a practical tool to help grow your business.
If you're an estate agent looking to improve your profits and create a business that lasts, this episode is packed with essential insights. Don’t miss it, listen now and learn how to build a business that works for you!

Jun 21, 2025 • 8min
Why are Corporate CEO's so shy? - Ep. 2241
Why Are Estate Agency CEOs So Shy? Russell Quirk's Bold Take!
In this eye opening episode, Russell Quirk, one of the most talked about figures in the UK property world, tackles a question that’s been on his mind for years: Why are so many estate agency CEOs so camera shy? It’s a discussion that doesn’t hold back, as Russell explains how the lack of visibility from the leaders of major agencies is holding the sector back.
Russell argues that when CEOs shy away from the spotlight, they miss out on a chance to build their brand, engage with staff, and lead their businesses with credibility. In a market where competition is fierce, why aren’t the leaders of firms like Connells, LSL, and Savills speaking out more? And how does this silence impact not just potential customers, but the people within these companies as well?
If you’re in the property industry, you won’t want to miss this thought provoking conversation. Listen now, leave a comment with your thoughts, and join the discussion on how CEOs can help shape the future of estate agency.

Jun 20, 2025 • 54min
UK Property Market Stats Show - Week 23 2025 - Ep.2240
UK PROPERTY MARKET WEEKLY UPDATE
Welcome to the 23rd UK Property Market Stats Show of 2025, your go to weekly ‘TV show’ on the UK Property Market on YouTube
This week, I’m joined by Steph Walker-Vass, boss lady of TAUK as we delve into the key property market headlines for 23rd week of 2025 ending on the 15th June 2025.
The YouTube Show
https://youtu.be/0M9NCYaPww0
✅ Listings (New Properties on the Market)
37.6k new listings this week (last week 39.3k)
YTD 5% higher than Week 23 of 2024 YTD and 8% higher YTD compared to 2017/18/19.
✅ Price Reductions (% of Resi Stock)
27.4k Price Reductions this week (last week 27.9k)
Monthly Run Rate in reductions - 1 in 7.1 of Resi Sales stock per month is being reduced (which represents 14%)) …13.4% the month before
For comparison, 12.1% average in 2024, though the long-term 5-year average is 10.6%.
✅ Total Gross Sales (Agreed Sales)
28.1k UK homes sold STC this week (last week 28.6k)
YTD - The number of Sold STC Resi homes are 8% higher compared to 2024 (608k Sales agreed YTD 2025 vs 562k YTD 2024) and 16% higher than 2017/18/19 YTD levels (524k).
✅ Sell-Through Rate (Monthly in Arrears)
May’s sale run rate of 16.1% of Resi stock sold stc (ie 16.1% of Estate Agents properties on the market went sale agreed). 15.36% last month
2024 monthly average: 15.3%. Long term 8 yr average: 17.9%.
✅ Sale Fall-Throughs
6,421 Sale fall-thrus last week from Resi Sale Sales Pipeline of 479k UK homes sale agreed (sold stc).
Another method is that week’s sale fall thrus as a % of gross sales that week. This week, that is 22.8% (last week 23.5%). That is below the 7-year average of 24.2%, and well below the 40%+ levels post-Truss Budget (Autumn 2022).
May’s figure 5.84% of sales in the UK agents pipelines fell thru. For comparison, April ’25 - 5.51%. 2024 average: 5.36%.
✅ Net Sales (Gross sales for the week less Sale Fall Thrus for the week)
21.7k net sales this week (21.9k last week), compared 2025 weekly average of 20k.
2025 YTD is 6% higher than compared to 2024 YTD and 11.4% higher than YTD 2017/18/19.
✅ Lettings Stats
Local Focus this week
Southport
Graphs
Available for use in free valuations / internally. Please dont publish these on social media without my OK. Reason - my fee paying clients use them - so its not fair on them https://we.tl/t-Wwr5CXYQwN

Jun 19, 2025 • 11min
The secret sauce to Estate Agency success - Ep. 2239
Unlock the Power of Storytelling in Estate Agency: Boost Your Success!
In today’s competitive property market, standing out is more important than ever. So, what’s the secret to success? Storytelling! Join estate agent Adam Mackay from Mackay Property as he explains why storytelling is the key to building stronger connections and driving success in your estate agency.
In this episode, Adam shares how storytelling can transform your approach to valuations, negotiations, and client relationships. Rather than relying on dry facts and figures, storytelling taps into emotions, making your property listings memorable and relatable. By connecting with clients on a deeper level, you can build trust and influence decisions far more effectively than with logic alone.
If you’re ready to elevate your approach and create lasting impressions, this episode is a must listen. Adam offers practical insights that can help you craft powerful stories that resonate with your clients and ultimately boost your sales.
Don’t miss out! Listen now and learn how storytelling can set you apart from the competition. We’d love to hear your thoughts, so leave a comment or share your own stories in the comments section.


