The Wharf: Home Front – March 22, 2007

Q. I recently made an offer on a property I viewed a week ago and have been told by the agent the property is now under offer. I have explained that I wish to make an offer over the asking price but the agent refuses to put the offer forward, what can I do?

A. Failure to put offers forward is a serious offence. According to the estate agents act 1979, agents are legally bound to forward all offers promptly and in writing to the seller. Failure to do so is in breach of The Estate Agents (UNDESIRABLE PRACTICES) (No.2) order 1991. Find out if your agent belongs to the OEA (Ombudsman for Estate Agents) if so follow their in house complaints procedure in the first instance, if this is not satisfactory then refer the complaint directly to the OEA who will investigate the matter further, please note however that the OEA has no power to act unless the agent is a member. In that case refer the case to The Director General of Fair Trading who can impose sanctions, they will usually ask for help from the local Trading Standards Department to investigate the breach further which can in due course result in a warning or prohibition order.

“I have known Dawn in a professional capacity for a very long time, as we used to work together for a number of years. She has a comprehensive knowledge of the Docklands real estate market, but this is not her strongest point. What makes Dawn stand out as an agent is the effort she puts into every deal, the relationships she builds with everyone and the passion she has for what she does. Dawn and Gabriella have been managing my investment property for more than 3 years. I now live overseas and I feel so comfortable knowing they are really looking after my interest, whilst at the same time always being fair and transparent with the tenants. Nothing is big enough job for those ladies and everytime I say ‘thank you – I am so grateful for what you do’, the reply is ‘It’s my job’. I really cannot recommend this wonderful team enough!”

Daniela WeatherillOverseas Landlord

“We are incredibly happy with the service that Dawn Sandoval Residential provide. They offer a personal but very professional service, and we feel secure and confident with their management which is key when letting out a property.”

Amy Facey

“Dawn Sandoval Residential and associates have managed several transactions on our behalf, and each time they have gone above and beyond our expectations. We trust the team highly, and I honestly couldn’t recommend them enough.”

Neil Chinniah

“The Dawn Sandoval Residential team took the time to properly understand what I was looking for. At every stage of the process, I knew they were doing their best for me and valued me as a customer. I have no hesitation in recommending their services in the highest possible terms.”

Andrew Simmonds – Management Consultant

“Dawn Sandoval Residential offer a real personal service. Their response rates are excellent, and we have a sense that they care about our tenants and properties. We cannot recommend them highly enough.”

Cathy & Paul Betts

“Dawn Sandoval Residential have great insights into the property market in London and especially around Canary Wharf. They work very hard to understand their clients’ requirements, and we would highly recommend them.”

David & Ginette Marks