If you're receiving this, you'll know me well enough to know that I'm no Shy Guy! Just look at that big smile.

And I'm not talking about those happy people moving into their new homes this month.

Stepping into the movie business

Let's rewind to Lockdown 1.0 a whole year ago. Normality was ripped from under our feet, property viewings banned and we had to all stay home!

I was stumped.

How could I grow my new estate agent business when I couldn't be out and about? Mixing with people, chatting down the local pu... - ahem - networking in my local area. It was how I'd always worked!

I had to find another way to get my message out to the general public. And so, I made my first property video. I didn't have a clue what I was doing but I just had fun with it. Why not hey?

My debut was a roaring success (11 views on YouTube, thank you, Mum!)

Advice from an expert

But I realised that I could keep communicating with the market. People in the process still wanted advice from a market expert, and that is a big part of my daily job. Answering questions, managing expectations and ensuring the process be as seamless as possible for my wonderful customers and friends. Questions that have regularly popped up over the last year:

Should I expect a lower offer because we are in a pandemic? No way!

Should I wait until lockdown is over to sell or buy? Nope!

Are properties taking longer to find a buyer? Absolutely not.

Are processes beyond the offer stage affected? Yes, please be patient whilst all parties go through the paperwork.

Through the keyhole

And now, each time I list a new property, I release a video. I get to walk you through the rooms, the view from the windows and the small but significant features that might sometimes get missed on a regular written listing. And you can watch it from the comfort of your own sofa, cuppa in hand.

I don't have Hollywood calling, but this method must be paying off because our sales success is through the roof!

With almost all homes selling within 21 days, I'm proud as punch.

And one thing that certainly hasn't changed is the genuine joy I get from handing over those keys, usually with your favourite tipple and a moving In pressie of course!

If you or someone you know is looking for a refreshing and proactive approach to selling or buying your property, then please get in touch. I'd love to hear from you.

Stay safe everyone,

Darren

[i]Get in touch with Darren by calling 020 3879 1239/ 07792 254 016 or emailing [email protected].

Alternatively, you can reach him on Facebook or Twitter.

Darren is the sponsor of Twickenham Nub News' property section - filled with listings for local houses and flats available to buy or rent.