Author: Marketing

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How Two Property Veterans Are Redefining Real Estate in Windsor: A Q&A with Sebastian and Nicholas

Since Nicholas joined us in July as the Managing Partner for Windsor, we’ve celebrated a string of successful property sales across his region. His dedication, expertise, and deep understanding of the market have been game-changers for the region.

But now, we’re taking things to the next level.

We’re thrilled to announce that Sebastian Stanford-Smith is joining Nicholas as our new Managing Partner for the Windsor region. Together, they’re bringing over 40 years of combined property expertise to the area. Think of it as having not one, but two seasoned property “dragons” on your side, working tirelessly to ensure every sale and purchase is a success.

To give you a behind-the-scenes look at how they work together and what makes them so passionate about Windsor, we sat down with Sebastian and Nicholas for a Q&A. Here’s what they had to say:

Q: What’s your background in real estate, and how did you come to work together?

Sebastian: I started my real estate journey back in 2002 with Hardings, one of the leading independent agencies at the time. After six years there, I moved to the corporate side with Hamptons, which is where Nicholas and I officially began working together in 2013. However, our story goes back further than that as we had crossed paths in the independent sector for years before joining forces.

Nicholas: That’s right! Between us, we’ve spent nearly 40 years working solely in Windsor. It’s a community we know deeply and love being part of. This year marks 21 years for me in the industry, and it’s incredible to think how much we’ve seen and done together.

Q: What keeps you passionate about the property market, especially in Windsor?

Nicholas: Windsor has a unique pull. I’ve lived, gone to school, and worked here for most of my life. The town is really special, with its historic charm, the castle and the Great Park, paired with its strategic location near London. It’s a place where you find an incredible mix of people: longtime locals and those moving in from areas like West London and Richmond. That diversity creates an energy that’s hard to replicate.

Sebastian: For me, it’s about building long-term relationships. I’ve had the privilege of helping clients move from flats to houses and then to larger homes as their lives evolve. Windsor’s a tight-knit community, so trust, integrity, and reputation are everything. The repeat business and personal connections we’ve built over the years are a testament to the service we provide.

Q: How do you differentiate yourselves from other agents?

Sebastian: It’s all about the personal touch. Unlike larger agencies where clients may deal with multiple people throughout the process, we offer a seamless, one-on-one service. The person you meet at the start is the same person who handles your viewings, negotiates offers, and progresses your sale through to completion.

Nicholas: That continuity is key. We pride ourselves on being there for our clients at every step and at any time, whether that is answering a call at 8 am or 9 pm on a Sunday. Our combined experience allows us to guide clients through the emotional and sometimes stressful journey of buying or selling a home with empathy and professionalism.

Q: What’s your approach to working together as a team?

Sebastian: Trust and communication are at the core of our partnership. Having worked together for so long, we know each other’s strengths and how to support one another. This allows us to bounce ideas off each other and tackle challenges with a balanced perspective.

Nicholas: Absolutely. We’re like a well-oiled machine! Clients often benefit from having both of us involved; two opinions, two sets of expertise, and twice the dedication. It’s a partnership that works well for us and also delivers exceptional results for our clients.

Q: What advice do you often give to clients preparing to sell their homes?

Nicholas: Preparation is everything. We always stress the importance of being ready before the property hits the market. That means instructing a solicitor early, organising paperwork and ensuring everything is in order.

Sebastian: Managing expectations is another big one. Whether it’s timelines, potential challenges or pricing, we work to make sure everyone is on the same page from the start. Every client’s journey is unique, so our approach is tailored to their needs and preferences, such as whether they prefer communication by phone calls, emails, or WhatsApp.

Q: Windsor’s property market can be challenging. How do you help clients navigate it confidently

Sebastian: It starts with experience. We’ve seen it all. The highs, the lows, and everything in between. We guide clients through the entire process and we have strong relationships with local solicitors and other professionals who share our commitment to exceptional service.

Nicholas: It’s also about efficiency. We know when to chase, when to prompt, and how to keep things moving. The process can be frustrating, but our goal is to make it as smooth as possible by staying proactive and keeping clients informed.

Q: What’s the current state of the Windsor property market?

Nicholas: Windsor is unique in that it offers a diverse range of properties. There are flats, townhouses and large family homes. It’s not a huge geographic area, but the variety is remarkable.

Sebastian: Stock levels are starting to rise, and January is a great time to get ahead of the spring rush. Sellers who list now can capture serious buyers before the market gets crowded. Windsor’s best features: its community, convenience, and connectivity, means demand remains strong across all price points.

Q: Any final thoughts?

Sebastian: I’m incredibly excited about what we’re building together. We’re doing something that no one else in the industry is offering, combining our experience, personal service, and a proper commitment to excellence.

Nicholas: Agreed. We’re not just colleagues; we are friends and that shows in how well we work together. We’re here to support our clients every step of the way, ensuring they get the best possible outcome and establishing long standing working relationships for many years to come.

If you’d like to speak with Sebastian or Nicholas about getting a personalised sales strategy for your home, or even just have a quick chat about the current market, don’t hesitate to get in touch. They’d be delighted to ensure you’re informed, supported, and confident every step of the way.

📞 Call Nicholas or Sebastian: 01753 303711
📧 Email us: windsor@fisherandpartners.com
🌐 Visit us online: www.fisherandpartners.com/windsor

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Understanding AML Checks: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Buying or selling a property is an exciting milestone, but it can also come with a few hurdles, such as navigating Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks. While it might feel like unnecessary red tape, these checks play a vital role in ensuring the security and integrity of property transactions.

Here’s everything you need to know about AML checks and why they’re essential in today’s real estate market.

What Is AML?

AML stands for Anti-Money Laundering, a set of regulations designed to prevent criminals from using property transactions to launder money. According to UK legislation:

“Money laundering is how criminals change money and other assets into clean money or assets that have no obvious link to their criminal origins.”

In the property market, this could involve:

  • Purchasing property with illegally obtained money, then selling or letting it to create legitimate funds.
  • Using complex company structures to obscure ownership or the purpose of a transaction.
  • Fraudulent transactions such as ghost lettings or staged mortgage scams.

Estate agents are legally required to carry out AML checks to validate buyers, sellers, and transactions. These checks protect the property market and give you peace of mind during your move.

What to Expect During AML Checks

For most people, AML checks are straightforward:

  • Identity Verification: You’ll need to provide a piece of photographic ID (e.g., a passport or driving licence) and a document confirming your address (e.g., a recent utility bill or bank statement).
  • Source of Funds: If paying with cash, you’ll need to show proof that the funds are in a recognised banking system.

Estate agents must also assess whether you could be vulnerable to coercion or fall under the category of a Politically Exposed Person (PEP). PEPs are individuals in positions of influence who could be at a higher risk of being targeted by criminals. If this applies to you, additional checks may be required.

Why Do AML Checks Matter?

Although it might seem like an inconvenience, AML checks are crucial. They help safeguard the property market from being exploited for illegal activities. While the likelihood of encountering money laundering in your property chain is low, these checks provide an added layer of protection for all parties involved.

What Do You Need to Do?

Every person named on the title deeds, or those who will be named if purchasing, must comply with AML regulations by providing:

  1. Photographic ID: Such as a passport or driving licence.
  2. Proof of Address: Such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.

Some estate agents conduct these checks manually, while others use digital services, which can be more convenient and may involve a small fee.

What Happens Next?

Once your AML checks are complete, you can proceed with your property transaction. However, note that your solicitor will likely repeat the checks during the legal process, even if your agent has already completed them. While this may feel redundant, it’s a necessary step to ensure compliance at every stage.

Ready to Make Your Move?

If you’re planning to buy or sell a property, understanding AML checks is just one part of the process. At Fisher and Partners, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Get a free property valuation here, or book a a personalised sales strategy that includes recommendations on how to make your next move seamless and stress-free.

Alternatively you’re welcome to contact your local managing partner to discuss your unique needs:
Ascot | Maidenhead | Sunningdale | Virginia Water| Windsor | Winkfield

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Why Selling Early in the New Year Could Be Your Best Move

It’s common for homeowners to wait until spring to put their property on the market, believing it’s the ideal time for a sale. However, this approach often misses out on a prime opportunity. Many buyers make the decision to move over the Christmas period, and their property searches ramp up as soon as January begins.

At Fisher and Partners, we frequently advise our clients to list their homes early in the New Year. This period typically sees low stock levels, meaning fewer properties are available, while buyer activity tends to peak. By launching your property during this window, you can get ahead of the competition, capture the attention of motivated buyers, and create a smoother, less pressured sales process.

The results speak for themselves. In just the first week and a half of January, across Fisher and Partners, we’ve seen offers worth over £10 million combined. Buyer activity has surged, and those clients who followed our advice are reaping the benefits of early market exposure, staying ahead of the competition.

If you’re considering selling your home, now is the time to act. Be proactive, take advantage of this seasonal uptick in activity, and give yourself the best chance of a successful sale.

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to provide a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner to arrange a time to chat. We look forward to hearing from you.

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5 Things to Do If You’re Trying to Sell an Empty Property Over Winter

Selling an empty property during the colder months can be challenging. With the shorter days, frosty weather, and a lack of warmth inside, it’s easy for a vacant house to feel unwelcoming. However, with a few strategic steps, you can protect your property and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Here are five essential tips for maintaining and showcasing an empty property during the winter season.

1. Prevent Damage from Burst Pipes

Winter temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to extensive and costly damage. Prevent this by:

  • Draining the water system to remove any water from the pipes.
  • Alternatively, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature to prevent freezing. Set the thermostat to a minimum of 10-15°C (50-59°F) if you keep the heating on.

This not only protects the property but ensures a comfortable viewing environment.

2. Keep the Property Warm

A cold, empty house is uninviting and could lead potential buyers to associate the property with discomfort.

  • Use a timer to keep the heating on during viewing times.
  • If you can’t keep it heated consistently, consider portable heaters for specific viewing appointments.

A warm property feels more welcoming and can help viewers envision living in the space.

3. Perform Regular Checks

An unoccupied property still needs attention to avoid deterioration and maintain security.

  • Arrange for someone (you, a trusted person, or a professional service) to visit weekly.
  • Pick up mail to prevent an overstuffed letterbox or piles of junk mail, which can give the impression the house is abandoned.
  • Check for maintenance issues, like leaks, dampness, or damage caused by bad weather.

Spotting problems early can save significant time and money.

4. Brighten Up the Space

Winter days are darker, making good lighting crucial during viewings.

  • Arrive early to open curtains and blinds, maximizing natural light.
  • Turn on all lights, including lamps, to make the space feel brighter and more inviting.

This simple step helps the property look more appealing, especially during evening viewings or overcast days.

5. Tidy Up and Declutter

Even though the property is empty, it’s important to keep it clean and free from clutter.

  • Remove junk mail, flyers, or debris that may have accumulated outside the door.
  • Keep any outdoor areas, such as driveways and paths, free from leaves or snow.

A tidy space creates a positive first impression, helping buyers focus on the property’s potential rather than distractions.

Final Thoughts

Selling an empty property over winter might seem challenging, but with these practical steps, you can protect it and enhance its appeal to prospective buyers. From preventing damage to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, these efforts can make all the difference.

Need help selling or renting a vacant property? Contact our team of property experts today for professional advice and support tailored to your needs.

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Should You Take Your Property Off the Market if the Market is Slowing Down?

If you’re trying to sell your property, the constant stream of alarming headlines might make you question your decision. Is the market in turmoil? Are house prices about to crash? Should you take your property off the market and wait it out? Before making any rash decisions, here’s what you need to know.

The Current Market Reality

The property market has certainly slowed from the frenzied activity of 2021 and 2022, but this doesn’t mean it’s crashing. What we’re seeing now is a market correction, a return to more normal conditions after an exceptional period.

While bidding wars and instant sales have become less common, property values and sales remain higher than pre-pandemic levels. Buyers are still looking, and properties continue to sell. However, a slower pace means sellers need to adapt their approach.

Should You Take Your Home Off the Market?

The short answer: not necessarily.

Here’s why:

  1. Your Reasons for Selling Haven’t Changed
    Why did you list your property in the first place? Whether it’s a growing family, downsizing, or a job relocation, those reasons likely still stand. Removing your property from the market won’t solve those challenges.
  2. The Market is Always Changing
    Fluctuations are a natural part of the property market. Reacting to short-term conditions by pulling your property could mean missing out on opportunities that still exist.
  3. Buyers Are Still Out There
    Even in a slower market, people still need homes. Life events, marriage, children, relocations, mean buyers are always searching. Positioning your property correctly ensures it appeals to those motivated buyers.

How to Adapt to a Changing Market

If your home isn’t selling as quickly as expected, here’s how to adjust:

  1. Reassess Pricing
    The market determines the value of your home, not past trends. If your property is priced based on the booming market of a year ago, it may not align with today’s conditions. Work with your agent to adjust your price and attract buyers.
  2. Enhance Presentation
    In a competitive market, presentation matters more than ever. Professional photography, staging, and minor improvements can make your home stand out.
  3. Work With the Right Agent
    Navigating a changing market requires expertise. Choose an agent who understands the current landscape and can tailor their strategy to your property’s unique needs.
  4. Be Flexible
    Consider alternative selling methods, such as confidential sales or off-market strategies, if traditional methods aren’t yielding results.

Remember: It’s a Buyer’s Market

With more properties available and fewer buyers, competition is higher. Sellers must be realistic and proactive, but this also means that buyers, who are likely sellers themselves, are in the same boat. Compromising on price may be offset by better deals on your next purchase.

Still Feeling Unsure? We’re Here to Help

Selling in a slower market doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our team of experienced estate agents can guide you through these challenging times, offering tailored advice and strategies to get your home sold.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s work together to achieve your property goals.

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Should You Paint Everything White and Depersonalise Your Property Before Selling?

For years, homeowners have been told to strip their homes of personality before selling, paint everything white, remove family photos, and keep the décor neutral. But times have changed. While this advice was once the go-to strategy, it may no longer be the best approach for today’s savvy and style-conscious buyers.

Here’s why embracing your home’s individuality could help you stand out in a competitive property market.

Why the Old Advice No Longer Works

The idea behind painting everything white and depersonalising your home was to present buyers with a “blank canvas” where they could imagine their own life unfolding. However, the way we search for homes has evolved.

  • Scrolling Culture: Buyers now browse online, scrolling through hundreds of properties in one sitting. A plain, neutral home may not catch their attention.
  • Increased Interest in Interior Design: Today’s buyers are inspired by bold colours, stylish interiors, and unique design choices. Homes with character stand out and create a lasting impression.

Neutral walls and empty spaces may have worked in the past, but in a sea of online listings, they can blend into the background.

Make Your Home Stand Out

If you’re planning to sell, leaning into your home’s unique style can set it apart. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

  1. Embrace Bold Choices
    A statement wallpaper, a brightly coloured kitchen, or an eye-catching light fixture can capture a buyer’s attention and pique their interest. Even if it’s not to everyone’s taste, it makes your property memorable.
  2. Highlight Your Personality
    Unique décor or quirky furniture, like a vibrant armchair or an unusual lamp, can add character to your listing. These small touches make your home feel lived-in and inviting.
  3. Get Creative with Photography
    Showcase your home’s individuality in your listing photos. Lead with a striking interior shot instead of the traditional exterior, or use a twilight image to create intrigue.
  4. Add Colour Where Needed
    If your home is very plain, consider adding pops of colour or interesting accents. A stark, all-white home can feel sterile and forgettable.

When Bold Choices Work Best

If your home already has a stylish or vibrant interior, let it shine! No need to redecorate or tone things down, your personal touches could be the exact thing that helps sell your property.

On the other hand, if your home is very plain, it might benefit from a few small updates. Adding a colourful piece of artwork, a patterned rug, or even a couple of vibrant throw pillows can make a big difference in how it’s perceived.

The Bottom Line

Selling your home is already a complex process, so don’t make it harder on yourself by thinking you need to erase its personality. A house with character not only stands out to buyers but can also help them imagine how their own style might fit within the space.

If you’d like tailored advice on how to prepare your home for sale and maximise its appeal, contact Fisher and Partners today. We’d be delighted to provide a free market appraisal and guidance on showcasing your home’s unique charm to attract the right buyers.

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Top Tips to Make the Most of the New Year Rush If You’re Planning a House Move in 2025

The festive season is always a whirlwind, school commitments, staff parties, shopping for gifts, leaving little time for anything else. For those considering a house move, it’s natural to relegate that task to the “after Christmas” list.

But here’s something to consider: what if everyone else is thinking the same thing? This could lead to a crowded housing market come January, with many properties competing for attention. Fortunately, there’s a way to avoid the post-holiday rush and set yourself up for success.

Why the Festive Period Is Key for Property Listings

Every year, property websites report a surge in traffic immediately after Christmas. In fact, Boxing Day is often the busiest day on Rightmove, as prospective buyers use the downtime to browse listings. However, if sellers wait until mid-January to prepare their properties, they miss out on these eager buyers.

By preparing your home for sale before Christmas, you can take advantage of this prime window of opportunity, ensuring your property is among the first to catch their eye.

How to Get Ahead of the Competition

Here’s how you can make the most of the festive season while still enjoying the holidays:

  1. Book a Valuation Early
    Schedule your property valuation before the Christmas rush. This gives you and your estate agent plenty of time to plan a strategy for marketing your home.
  2. Prepare the Marketing Materials
    Arrange for professional photography, videos, and brochures before putting up your decorations. This ensures your property is showcased at its best, free from the festive clutter.
  3. Launch Strategically
    With everything ready in advance, your agent can launch your property to the market during the Boxing Day surge. You can relax and enjoy Christmas while buyers are discovering your listing.
  4. Stay Ahead of January Sellers
    By having your property live on the market over the festive period, you’ll reach motivated buyers before the influx of new listings in mid-January.

Enjoy Christmas Without the Stress

Imagine this: while you’re celebrating the holidays, attending nativity plays, shopping for gifts, and sharing meals with family, your property is already online, attracting attention from serious buyers. You’ll start the new year ahead of the competition, giving yourself the best chance of a quick and successful sale.

Ready to make your move? Contact your local managing partner at Fisher and Partners today for a free property valuation. Let us help you prepare for the new year rush and ensure your home stands out in the market.

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Should You Prioritize Qualifications or Experience When Choosing an Estate Agent?

The average seller spends years deliberating about selling their home. With all of that time spent researching, many sellers will already know which estate agent they will use when ready to market their home. So, how have they made this decision?

The average seller spends years deliberating about selling their home.

And countless hours scrolling through the property websites to see what is available.

With all that time spent researching, many sellers will already know which estate agent they will use when ready to market their home. 

Studies show that most sellers have already decided who they will ask to sell their house long before arranging the valuation appointments. 

So, how have they made this decision? 

Gut instinct? 

The biggest or busiest agent is ‘probably’ the best? 

The agent with the most for-sale boards in your town seems okay, so you’ll probably just call them, right?

So you arrange for the 3 most likely candidates to visit your home and tell you what they think. 

This is the agents’ time to shine. Their opportunity to pitch you for the business. An interview or audition, if you like. 

They come to your home with the intention to wow you with their local knowledge and impressive sales figures. They tell you how many properties they’ve sold in your street over the years.

Or perhaps they show off their shiny certificate from the exams they’ve passed with flying colours. 

In the wise words of Shania Twain, “that don’t impress me much”!

It’s all a bit lacklustre. You’re not wowed or bowled over by anything you’ve been told. You’re not excited by the agents’ passion or their creative ideas about how they want to market your home.

So what should you be impressed by?

Being able to pass an exam does confirm that this agent has read up on the role they’re working in and was competent enough to pass the exams. 

Great. Doing a job for a long time does mean that you will have years of experience. 

Fabulous. But do either of those points guarantee that they will be able to sell your home? 

No, of course not. In truth, neither years of experience nor qualifications will guarantee an excellent selling experience for you when you sell your home.

So what should you look for when choosing an estate agent?

You should look for an agent with a plan!

Not just an arbitrary plan but a structured process that can be proven to get results.

Of course, experience is important. Otherwise, there won’t be any substance behind the plan and absolutely no proof that it works. 

And qualifications, whilst not essential, definitely confirm that this agent has a clue. 

But, fundamentally, it isn’t all about certificates and the number of years in the job. That is good but certainly not the be-all and end-all. 

Your agents need a plan!

It’s a way to demonstrate how they work and what they’ll do to ensure that your home sells for the highest amount of money in the shortest possible timescale. 

This is the goal of all estate agents and sellers. 

So how will they achieve this? 

Having tons of boards up in the town does not mean that the agent is the busiest seller. It actually means that they are busy marketing properties. 

You want to see how they are being marketed and how that marketing translates to viewings and offers for you.

So, to summarise, qualifications and experience are very important factors. Still, without a plan for how the task of selling your home is achieved, they’re simply ego boosters for the agent and won’t guarantee a sale for you and your home. 

When you’re ready to put your home on the market, consider your valuation appointments as interviews and ask the agents to demonstrate their proven process for selling homes. 

If you’d like to hear more about our selling process and how we help our clients secure the highest possible offers in the shortest amount of time, get in touch today!

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Take a Break This Festive Season: How to Pause Viewings on Your Property

Nativity plays, shopping, present wrapping, and staff parties. It’s all go in the run-up to Christmas. There is so much going on at this time of year. Preparing for viewings on your property, on top of everything else, could be enough to send you over the edge!

If your property is on the market for sale and you can see your diary filling up fast with the pre-Christmas festivities, you might be feeling overwhelmed, thinking that you simply couldn’t fit in any viewings from potential buyers. 

Nativity plays, shopping, present wrapping, and staff parties. It’s all go in the run-up to Christmas. 

There is so much going on at this time of year. Preparing for viewings on your property, on top of everything else, could be enough to send you over the edge! 

So what should you do? You want to sell your home and move in the new year, so you want as many viewings as possible, right? But how can you fit these viewings in?

When your diary is full of festive occasions, so is everyone else’s. Many buyers put a hold on their property search until the new year. Choosing to stop viewings and online searches until they have the bandwidth to view properties seriously and really consider their next move. 

If fewer buyers are looking for a property, then the likelihood is that there would be fewer viewing appointments anyway. So, why not take advantage of this and take a break yourself?

Many people feel they need to take their property off the market altogether to enjoy Christmas in peace. You don’t have time to clean your home and present it the way you like, and you have the tree and decorations up everywhere, which, although it makes your home lovely and cosy, will also make it feel smaller because there is extra stuff around. 

But did you know that you can ask your estate agent to place you on “do not disturb”?

This is not a withdrawal from the market, simply a pause on viewing appointments until the new year. Any viewing enquiries that come through the agents at this time can be told that the property is on hold until the new year, scheduling the viewing appointments for when things are not quite as hectic and you have the headspace to focus on selling your home.

Don’t worry that you’ll be missing out. In reality, most buyers have had their focus redirected to Christmas festivities, too, so they are not likely to be booking many viewing appointments. Serious buyers will wait until the new year and may even be relieved that you won’t be taking viewings from any other buyers.

Get in touch if you are on the market and want to take advantage of the Do not disturb marketing option. 

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Welcome Dane to Fisher & Partners: Meet Our Newest Managing Partner

We’re excited to introduce Dane Spelina, the latest managing partner to join Fisher & Partners. Dane brings a wealth of expertise and deep local insight to our Maidenhead region, marking an exciting new chapter for our team and, most importantly, for our clients.

With extensive experience at top-tier agencies and a passion for delivering exceptional service, Dane is committed to making your property journey smooth and successful.

We recently caught up with Dane to find out what inspires him, how his unique approach sets him apart, and why his local knowledge makes him the perfect partner for your property needs.

Q&A With Dane Spelina

What inspired you to join Fisher & Partners after working with leading agencies like Knight Frank and Hamptons?

Dane: My time at Knight Frank and Hamptons International taught me so much, they’re brilliant companies with excellent teams. However, I noticed a shift in what clients want. Today’s property market leans towards a more personal, bespoke approach.

At Fisher & Partners, I can provide that one-on-one service clients are looking for, without the constraints of a larger corporate structure. It’s about truly tailoring the experience to the individual, which is something I’m passionate about.

What makes you stand out as an estate agent?

Dane: Starting my career during the challenging 2007-2008 financial crisis gave me a unique perspective on navigating different markets.

Over the years, I’ve worked across Maidenhead, Cookham, Ascot, Gerrards Cross, and South Oxfordshire. This has equipped me with a deep understanding of a wide range of property types, communities, and client needs. Whether it’s a family home or a high-end property, I adapt my approach to fit each situation.

How does your local knowledge shape your work?

Dane: Growing up in Cookham and living in the area has given me invaluable insights. From knowing the best roads to understanding school catchments and local planning nuances, these details allow me to craft strategies that are perfectly suited to the area. It’s about bringing value that you can’t find online or in a brochure.

What’s your top piece of advice for someone selling their home?

Dane: Always start by meeting your agent to align on a strategy. The approach you take, whether it’s a public listing, a confidential sale, or something else, makes a huge difference. Clear expectations and a solid plan from day one are key to a smooth, successful process.

What’s one thing sellers often overlook?

Dane: Presentation is critical, especially when it comes to professional architectural photography. Many homes hit the market without considering how they’re presented, and that can significantly impact the final sale price. Investing in high-quality visuals is always worth it.

How do your professional connections benefit your clients?

Dane: Over the years, I’ve built a strong network of professionals, from lawyers and interior designers to house dressers and tradespeople. This “black book” of trusted contacts ensures my clients have access to everything they need, whether it’s preparing their home for sale or handling post-purchase details. It’s all about offering a seamless, stress-free experience.

What do sellers of high-end properties expect from their agent?

Dane: Discretion, expertise, and personal service. Sellers want a trusted advisor who is with them from start to finish—not passed between team members. At Fisher & Partners, I ensure every client receives tailored advice and continuous support throughout their journey.

How does your background in marketing enhance your work as an agent?

Dane: My studies in property, agency, and marketing allow me to think creatively about how to position and promote homes. Whether it’s crafting a compelling story for a listing or finding innovative ways to attract buyers, this expertise helps me achieve the best results for my clients.

How do you maintain balance in your life, and does it influence your work?

Dane: I believe a balanced life leads to better results. I enjoy playing squash, exploring motorsports, and walking my dog along the river. Taking time to recharge helps me stay focused and creative, which ultimately benefits my clients. Fisher & Partners’ approach allows me the flexibility to give each client my full attention.

What trends are you noticing in the local property market?

Dane: After the pandemic, buyers were prioritising space, big gardens and homes further from stations. Now, as people return to offices, proximity to transport links is regaining importance. Sellers should be aware of this shifting demand when marketing their homes.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Dane: Helping clients navigate what can be a stressful process. My role is to simplify the journey, solve challenges, and provide the reassurance that they have a trusted expert by their side. Seeing the relief and satisfaction on their faces when everything comes together is incredibly rewarding.

If you had to sum up Fisher & Partners in one sentence, what would it be?

Dane: Fisher & Partners is about delivering high-level, bespoke service, personal, independent, and focused on achieving exceptional results with one point of contact throughout.

We’re thrilled to welcome Dane to the team. His dedication to client success, combined with his deep local expertise and personal approach, embodies the values Fisher & Partners stands for.

If you’re thinking about selling your property in Maidenhead or the surrounding areas, Dane would love to help. Get in touch for a free market appraisal and discover how we can make your property journey seamless and rewarding.