This week marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for Southwest estate agency network, The Experts in Property, with a change of chairmanship and new directors on the board.

Cornwall-based former estate agent, Steve Moir has stepped down as chairman of the ‘super group’ and Bristol property specialist, Andrew Simmonds has taken the reins.

The well-known network of independent estate agents was established in 1980 with member offices across Cornwall, Devon and West Dorset. In 2013, it launched its Distinctly Westcountry brand and expanded into Somerset and Bristol. Now, branches as far north as South Gloucestershire, and eastward to Ringwood and Christchurch are members, expanding the in-office and online marketing exposure for client’s properties even further.

The non-profit making organisation is run by the agents, for the agents, supported by one paid member of staff. Most offices are family-run, and each has a local reputation to protect and uphold. By working together, every agency offers property for sale throughout the region, and house-hunters in any area have a local office to visit – so, someone living in Bristol can pop to their local office to talk about homes for sale in St Ives or Bournemouth, for example.

Steve was the ‘Moir’ in Saltash estate agency Hennings Moir, which opened in 1984 and came under new ownership when Steve retired from estate agency in 2018. Chairman of the network from 2001 ‘till 2006, Steve once again took to the helm in 2009 and has remained in the post even since retiring from agency. Now, however, after 14 years in the role, he has hung up his hat and intends to enjoy full retirement.

Taking the reins from Steve is Bristol property specialist and trusted industry authority, Andrew Simmonds. A working estate agent, qualified surveyor, RICS registered valuer and member of ARLA, NAEA, NAVA and the IRPM, Andrew has spent more than two decades working in the property sector and co-hosts a monthly property podcast that serves as an industry benchmark.

Andrew, who heads up Parker’s in North Somerset and Country Property in Chipping Sodbury, said: “I’m excited to have been elected to take the role as chairman of the Experts in Property. It’s a great organisation and Steve has done a fantastic job. We’re all very sad to see him leave and wish him all the best for his retirement.

As well as the extensive marketing prowess for property, one of the most valuable benefits of membership is the network’s excellent training programme. Arranged and hosted by the Experts in Property with a wide range of courses delivered by some of the industry’s leading trainers, the programme is designed to ensure principals and their staff stay apace with ever-changing legislation and market conditions, to continue being the best in the business.

Honiton estate agent of more than 30 years, Roger Hemming has also joined highly respected, Okehampton-based James Stevens and the long-standing Andy Pounsberry on the board of directors.

To search for property for sale across the Southwest, visit www.theexpertsinproperty.co.uk. To find out how your property marketing can reach more buyers, find your nearest branch at www.theexpertsinproperty.co.uk/agents-directory.