International Property Awards

by Matthew Smith (Smith & Ericsson)

I have never been one to blow my own trumpet. But it has been a genuine honour to have been recognised for the hard work that Kris Ericsson and I have endeavoured since leaving Knight Frank to start Smith & Ericsson. It is not easy leaving a comfortable and lucrative position at one of the most well-known and well-regarded estate agencies in the UK and indeed the world, but it was a leap of faith that has been the best decision of our careers. Smith & Ericsson winning the super-hat trick of Best Estate Agent London, Best Estate Agent United Kingdom, Best Real Estate Agent Europe and Best International Real Estate Agent by The International Property Awards judging panel, has been more than we could ever have hoped for or expected.

I thought that in order to win such titles, that a broker must be like those seen on television in Million Dollar Listing or Selling Sunset or the more cringe worth UK equivalents, but I have been proved wrong. What has won us these accolades is our dedication to top class customer service and a refreshing brand, which demonstrates our no nonsense approach to property. Not changing the property industry to a faceless app or a prop-tech platform devoid of humanity, but the polar opposite. Human to human contact and advice, compassion and no BS. No spreadsheets and no KPIs. During our careers we learned a lot about the importance of research and information. Unbiased, but informed advice, honesty and integrity. But we also learned how making an industry that is based on trust and personal recommendations, cannot be replaced by computers and technology. No matter how good a virtual tour may be, or how easy it is to log on to a platform, nothing beats real life interaction, selling advice and the reassuring comfort of a nice long chat with an agent you like, and not one that you mistrust or must bear in order to sell or rent your property.

One of the most daunting decisions when leaving a giant global corporate company, is the feeling of isolation. While Kris and I have each other to mutually encourage, reassure, motivate and generally have fun while working hard, joining The London Broker has been an integral part of our success of winning these awards. We are in good company, as TLB is a multiple award winner. Charlie Willis, Rupert Collingwoood, David Adams have also picked up 5 awards over the last 2 years. It makes such a difference to be part of a wider collection of some of the worlds most talented brokers. The London Broker is not only an experienced London bevvy of brokers, but also covers some of the world’s most desirable locations. This is instrumental when referring business to ensure our clients are never at a disadvantage. There is very little we cannot help with when it comes to property. Being part of a collective adds strength and allows us to advise our clients not just with our own experience, but with the experience of a combined 700+ years in the industry, in over 15 locations around the world.

We are so proud to have been recognised by The International Property awards and would like to say a special thank you to Rupert Collingwood for his constant efforts and encouragement, which without a doubt, was instrumental in our success.

“No matter how good a virtual tour may be, or how easy it is to log on to a platform, nothing beats real life interaction, selling advice and the reassuring comfort of a nice long chat with an agent you like, and not one that you mistrust or must bear in order to sell or rent your property.”