THEPRO BUSINESS
B
ased in Marbella, the firm acts very much as a bespoke property finder for its clients, drawing both Europeans and buyers from markets such as Dubai because of the cultural and linguistic adaptability of the team. “We are made up of a variety of nationalities ourselves, so we find it easier to relate to people from diverse regions and walks of life,” says founder Frederic Bentz, an experienced real estate professional and developer who operates five agencies in and around Nancy, in northeast France. Having founded his real estate brand over a decade ago, he gravitated towards the Marbella area both on a personal and professional level. “It’s been said many times before but Marbella really does offer a rather unique combination of climate, lifestyle and location within the European boundaries. This is why more and more French people are buying properties here, even though France is endowed with iconic coastal regions such as Languedoc
and the Côte d’Azur.” Splitting his time between Marbella and Nancy, he delegates the daily running of the operation to Evelin Ortega. Swiss-born of Spanish origin, the multilingual Evelin has a corporate background with the likes of Goldmann Sachs and Warner Music, to which has been added almost ten years in real estate. “I like to think I combine Swiss efficiency with a rather less typical sense of fun,” says the stylish professional who forms a powerful team with Stephanie Thonnard. “Between them they bring property and local experience to the table as well as a natural flair for making people feel at home, and they do it with a sense of style,” says Frederic.
A relationship
In a world of ‘unique selling points’ and ‘competitive advantage’ his ethos is a simple one: “We provide a very personal, bespoke service aimed very much at the needs of the individual rather than the necessity or commitment
BOUTIQUE AGENTS on our part to sell a particular property. To do this effectively you have to remain small, focused and ‘boutique’, so rather than grow into a big organisation it is our ambition to create a five-star brand known for its five-star service.” Although the company specialises in more luxurious properties in and around Marbella, it doesn’t necessarily mean they focus on the most expensive real estate. “Our primary client is the buyer, not the vendor, so we are committed to find the best value property that suits the needs and desires of our clients, and we do it in a pleasant and efficient way,” says Evelin. “Doing this well is what creates a good name, brings
us word of mouth referrals and ultimately ensures our company’s success far more than any amount of marketing could do.” The relationship with clients therefore doesn’t end when the sale is concluded, but continues long afterwards. “Even more than a formal ‘after sales’ service, we really consider a transaction successful when the client sees us as a friend and knows we’re there for them long after they have bought the house,” adds Stephanie, “and I’m happy to say that in the two years we have been operating in Marbella we are still in touch with most of our clients.” Working with the support of a serious company adds a certain stability in a market known for its real estate oscillations. “We know we have the backing of a professional outfit in France,” says Evelin, “it just adds a sense of confidence and shows that although we take a fun approach to our work we are serious about what we do and the commitments we make to our clients.” e
MARBELLA HILLS HOMES WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KH PHOTOGRAPHY
Built around an international team, Marbella Hills Homes services a sophisticated multinational clientele in what can best be described as a ‘boutique’ approach.
g C/ Calderon de la Barca, s/n. Urb. Magna Marbella, 29660 Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. 114 / ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE JULY 2011
146BP.indd 114
Tel: +34 666 647 430. info@marbella-hills-homes.com / www.marbella-hills-homes.com 21/6/11 16:37:45