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

May 31, 2025 • 8min
My Lister Nearly Died - Ep. 2220
A Near Death Experience That Almost Took Down an Estate Agency, But Here's the Lesson!"
In this episode, estate agent Adam Mackay, owner of Mackay Property, opens up about an incredibly challenging moment in his business when a near fatal accident almost derailed everything. A key team member’s life threatening injury forced Adam to confront some hard truths about running an estate agency and the risks of relying too heavily on just a few people.
Adam shares how this tragic event not only impacted his team but also highlighted the importance of having a robust and adaptable business structure. He discusses the lessons he learned, including the need to build a team that can step up in times of crisis and the crucial role of resilience in keeping a business afloat.
This story is not just about overcoming adversity, but about the strength that comes from a well supported team, and how even in the darkest times, there is always hope for growth and recovery. It’s an invaluable lesson for any estate agent looking to build a sustainable business.
Listen now, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to share with your colleagues!

May 30, 2025 • 52min
UK Property Market Stats Show - Week 20 2025 - Ep.2219
UK PROPERTY MARKET WEEKLY UPDATE
Welcome to the 20th 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 Iain McKenzie, as we delve into the key property market headlines for 20th week of 2025 ending on the 25th May 2025.
The YouTube Show
https://youtu.be/lDlSupQsKdk
✅ Listings (New Properties on the Market)
41.3k new listings this week (last week 40.6k)
YTD 6% higher than Week 20 of 2024 YTD and 9% higher YTD compared to 2017/18/19.
✅ Price Reductions (% of Resi Stock)
27.2k Price Reductions this week - Monthly Run Rate in reductions - 1 in 7.5 of Resi Sales stock per month is being reduced (which represents 13.4%).
For comparison, 12.1% average in 2024, though the long-term 5-year average is 10.6%.
✅ Total Gross Sales (Agreed Sales)
28.9k UK homes sold STC this week (last week 28.8k)
YTD - The number of Sold STC Resi homes are 9% higher compared to 2024 (527k Sales agreed YTD 2025 vs 484k YTD 2024) and 17% higher than 2017/18/19 YTD levels (399k).
✅ Sell-Through Rate (Monthly in Arrears)
April’s sale run rate of 15.36% of Resi stock sold stc (ie 15.36% of Estate Agents properties on the market went sale agreed). March’s was 16.3%. 2024 monthly average: 15.3%. Long-term 8-year average: 17.9%.
✅ Sale Fall-Throughs
6,618 Sale fall-thrus last week from Resi Sale Sales Pipeline of 453k 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 22.9% (last week 22.7%). That is below the 7-year average of 24.2%, and well below the 40%+ levels post-Truss Budget (Autumn 2022).
In April, as a whole, 5.51% of sales in the UK agents pipelines fell thru. For comparison, 2024 average: 5.36%.
✅ Net Sales (Gross sales for the week less Sale Fall Thrus for the week)
22.2k net sales this week (22.2k last week), compared 2025 weekly average of 20k.
2025 YTD is 6% higher than compared to 2024 YTD and 11.5% higher than YTD 2017/18/19.
Local Focus this week
Canterbury
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-nCHRQepW3h

May 29, 2025 • 6min
Could Blended Fees Save Estate Agency? - Ep. 2218
Could Blended Fees Save UK Estate Agencies?
In this episode, estate agency coach Iain White explores how blended fees could be the solution to the challenges faced by UK estate agents. Are you struggling with 'no sale, no fee' listings and rising costs? Blended fees could be the answer you’ve been waiting for.
Iain explains how blended fees allow homeowners to contribute towards marketing costs upfront, reducing their success fee later. This model offers cash flow benefits for estate agents, minimising risk while boosting income. Iain also discusses how offering blended fees as an option can result in more committed sellers, with success rates reaching over 90 per cent for transactions that involve upfront contributions. Plus, he shares practical advice on how to introduce this model into your business without disrupting conversion rates or alienating clients.
If you’re ready to discover how blended fees can transform your agency’s business model and improve your cash flow, hit play now! Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or subscribe for more tips on growing your property business.

May 28, 2025 • 6min
Should you instruct a lawyer when you list a home? - Ep. 2217
Should You Instruct a Lawyer on Day One of Listing? Here’s Why It Could Be a Game Changer!
In the current UK property market, staying ahead of the curve is essential. But have you thought about instructing a lawyer right from day one of listing a property? Sally Holdway, LawTech strategist, shares her expertise on how involving a lawyer early on can help streamline the process and give you a competitive edge.
Sally explains how technology has made it easier to gather material information, why providing this upfront can speed up transactions, and how the latest regulatory changes are shifting the way estate agents should approach the sales process. With lawyers now better equipped to handle preemptive enquiries, getting them on board earlier can save valuable time and prevent costly delays later.
If you’re looking to optimise your approach, improve client satisfaction, and stay ahead of the competition, this episode is a must listen.

May 27, 2025 • 6min
From gobby agent to Z-list celeb - Ep. 2216
From Gobby Estate Agent to TV Minor Superstar! Russell Quirk’s Journey.
How does an outspoken estate agent become a regular on national television? In this insightful episode, we sit down with Russell Quirk, co-founder of ProperPR and property pundit on TalkTV, to explore his unexpected rise to TV stardom.
Russell reveals how his deep knowledge of the property market, combined with a bold approach to media, led him from the world of estate agency to becoming a recognised TV personality. From navigating the challenges of live TV to understanding the power of media PR, he shares how pushing himself outside his comfort zone unlocked new opportunities both in business and on screen.
Russell’s story isn’t just about TV appearances, it’s about the impact media exposure can have on your business. He also touches on how his broadcasting work has directly resulted in new clients, proving that building a public profile can be a powerful business tool.
If you’re an estate agent looking to stand out in a crowded market, you won’t want to miss this. Listen now, and share your thoughts in the comments. How could stepping into the media spotlight boost your property career?

May 26, 2025 • 6min
The Power Of Humour In Estate Agency - Ep. 2215
The Power of Humour in Estate Agency: Boost Your Business and Build Stronger Connections!
In today’s competitive property market, connecting with clients is key to winning business. But what if you could do more than just present your expertise? What if you could entertain too? In this episode, we’re joined by Toby Martin, an estate agency guru known for his fun approach to the business. He’s here to share why embracing humour in your interactions can be a game changer!
Key Takeaways:
🏠 Humour Builds Trust: A light-hearted touch helps you stand out and make a personal connection with clients.
🏠 Higher Fees Through Laughter: Research shows including humour in your sales pitch could help you secure a 20% higher fee.
🏠 Motivate Your Team: Managers with a good sense of humour are proven to be 27% more motivating, creating a more engaged team.
🏠 Everyday Humour: From PS lines in emails to funny 'out of office' replies, small moments of humour can have a big impact on relationships.
🏠 Be Authentic: Use humour in a way that feels natural to you. No need to force it!
Ready to see how a bit of fun can boost your business? Listen now, and let us know in the comments how you’ve used humour in your estate agency.

May 25, 2025 • 9min
Is it worth giving 30% of your fee to self employed brokerage? - Ep. 2214
Is Giving Away 30% of Your Fee to a Self Employed Brokerage Worth It?
As an estate agent, the thought of giving away 30% of your fee to a self employed brokerage can seem daunting. But is it really a bad deal? In this episode, Adam Mackay, an experienced estate agent who recently joined the self employed model, breaks down the pros and cons from his own experience.
Adam dives into the details of how self employed brokerages, like EXP, work, and why he made the shift. He discusses how the fee structure isn’t as simple as it seems, and how the costs are offset by access to a full range of services, including Rightmove, Zoopla, a powerful CRM, training, and strong compliance support. For Adam, it’s not just about the financials, but the added flexibility, support, and the sense of community that comes with being part of a bigger network.
If you’ve ever wondered whether self employed models can actually help you grow your business and reduce the stress of running an agency, this episode will give you the insights you need.
Tune in to hear Adam’s full experience, and share your thoughts in the comments. Could this model work for you?

May 24, 2025 • 4min
How good is your Google Business Listing? - Ep. 2213
Is Your Google Business Listing Working Hard Enough for You?
In the fast paced UK property market, standing out online is crucial. But how much attention have you paid to your Google Business listing? Join marketing expert Reena Patel as she explains why this often overlooked tool could be the key to boosting your visibility and attracting more clients.
In this episode, we explore how your Google Business listing can give you a competitive edge. Reena shares how you can update your profile with photos, posts, and relevant information that will encourage potential clients to click through to your website. She also reveals how engaging with your listing, whether through reviews, Q&As, or updates, can help you rank higher in search results.
You’ll also learn how easy it is to claim and manage your business profile, ensuring you’re in control of your online presence. Plus, discover why this free tool from Google should be a core part of your ongoing marketing strategy to stay ahead of the competition.
Don’t miss out, listen now, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!

May 22, 2025 • 4min
Could Fractional Recruitment Save Your Estate Agency Staffing Problems? - Ep. 2211
Could Fractional Recruitment Solve Your Estate Agency’s Staffing Problems?
Are staffing issues slowing down your estate agency? In the ever evolving property market, hiring full time staff can be expensive and restrictive. But what if there was a smarter way? Fractional recruitment could be the answer, offering the flexibility and top tier talent your business needs.
In this episode, I’m joined by Iain White and Myles White from Crux Careers, who share their insights on fractional recruitment and how it can benefit estate agents across the UK in 2025.
Fractional recruitment lets you hire experts on a part time basis for key roles like marketing, HR, software development and business develoment. It’s an efficient way to access top talent without the financial burden of full time contracts. Plus, it offers a level of flexibility that traditional recruitment can’t match, allowing you to adjust your team as market conditions change.
Listen to this episode to learn how fractional recruitment can help your estate agency thrive, whether you’re looking to save costs or find specialised expertise. Don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments below!

May 21, 2025 • 5min
3 ways to get your sale through quicker - Ep. 2210
3 Key Ways Estate Agents Can Speed Up Property Exchanges.
Are you an estate agent looking to speed up property exchanges and close deals faster? In this episode, we’re joined by Sally Holdway, LawTech strategist and co founder of the Home Owner's Passport, who shares three essential strategies to help you streamline the process.
First up, Sally discusses preemptive sales progression, which involves getting key documents like title deeds and property forms ready early. By tackling material information up front, you can prevent delays and avoid unnecessary back and forth later on. Sally explains how taking a proactive approach can put you in the driving seat, helping you stay ahead of potential issues.
Next, we dive into the question of whether to go for fixed fee conveyancing or chase higher referral fees. Sally walks through the trade offs between the two options, helping you decide what’s best for you in terms of speed, cost, and service.
Finally, Sally highlights the importance of building strong relationships with conveyancers. Traditionally, estate agents and solicitors have had a bit of a strained relationship, but with the right approach, you can work together from the outset to ensure smoother, faster transactions.
Don’t miss out on these practical tips to boost your efficiency and win more business. Listen to the full episode now, share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s get those exchanges moving!


