Andrew Coulson – Estate Agent

Andrew Coulson is a long-established, independent estate agency based in Hexham, Northumberland. In 2013, following the recession, the business underwent a rebrand, including a complete overhaul of their high street branch. It was at this point that they decided to install two intouch screens; one through-glass display screen in the shop window and one internal screen.

“When we rebranded, we also changed the name of the business to ‘Andrew Coulson’,” said Director and Relocation Manager, Ailsa Mather. “And since we changed our name, instructions have gone through the roof. Andrew is really well known and well respected, and people buy the name.”

STAYING AHEAD OF THE COMPETITION

It’s a competitive area; there are no less than 7 property agents in this market town, however Ailsa knows that they get the lion’s share of the market.

“It’s a hugely challenging area, but we work hard to stay ahead of the competition and deliver an outstanding service to our customers. We were the first agent in Hexham high street to have back-lit displays in the window, the first to create a buyers’ lounge. We always want to stand out, and the intouch through-glass touch screen helps us to do exactly that.”

Ailsa first read about the intouch through-glass touch screens in the trade press and then saw a demonstration at a networking event. That is what made her decide to buy one.

PEOPLE ARE IMPRESSED

“We have one screen in our window and one inside the shop. Buyers can view property and email their enquiry, and I get back to them immediately – even if it is out of hours – which they are impressed by.

“We are the only agent offering 24/7 exposure for vendors, in effect we are still actively marketing their property even when the premises are closed. Vendors can also request a valuation at any time of day or night, and I will respond immediately.

“We went for the advertising route because we see it as a way of giving back to valued suppliers. It also helps cover the monthly fee.

“We receive great support from the team at intouch. Once we had a ‘blip’ on the inside screen, no fault of the screen, a thunderstorm took the computer out! They sorted it out straight away. Fantastic support.

“The screens are an important part of our marketing mix – they are our USP. In fact, we were surprised others have not followed suit yet – especially as some have taken photos!”