At Dutch & Dutch, we often meet landlords who’ve had the same experience: their property is managed, but they feel like just another name on a spreadsheet. One of our recent clients on Kingsgate Road summed it up perfectly - after several years with another agency, he was tired of being passed from person to person and only ever being offered one quote from the agent’s own contractors. He wanted something different: a fresh approach, more personal attention, and the sense that his property - and he -actually mattered.
When he first called us, we simply listened. We talked through what wasn’t working for him, what he really wanted from a managing agent and how we could help. The next morning, he rang back and said he had a good feeling about us and wanted to move forward. It’s always a big moment when a landlord puts that trust in you - you can’t just promise, you have to deliver.
So that’s exactly what we did. Bianca (Head of Residential Property Managment) and Huw (Associate Director of Lettings) went to see the flat and gave him straightforward advice about small maintenance jobs and cosmetic touches that would help the property let quickly. Nothing excessive, just the right improvements to make it stand out in a busy market. And the result spoke for itself: the flat rented fast and achieved £200 a month over the asking price.
Of course, timing helped. This summer, demand for three-bedroom flats in the area was huge. But demand alone isn’t enough- you need the right advice, pricing and presentation to get the best outcome. What really made the difference was the relationship. Instead of being “just another landlord,” he felt listened to, supported and looked after.
That’s what we believe lettings should be about. Not KPIs, not pushing one-size-fits-all solutions, but treating people like people.
For us, that’s the Dutch & Dutch difference: high-end, personalised service that adds real value - and makes landlords feel as confident as they should about who’s managing their property.
Get in touch on 020 7794 0075 for sound advice or to find out how Dutch & Dutch can help you.
