The History of Estate Agents in the U.K.

[Keith Sherwood]

Hi again, Everyone,
A general query this, but does anyone know where I might find something to read about the origin of the modern day Estate Agents.  I'd always thought they were a recent phenomenon, but have recently come across a firm that reputedly originated in 1855.
Any help with this, however small, much appreciated...
Keith

[Mart 'n' Al]

What an interesting question.

Martin

[mazi]

https://www.estateagenttoday.co.uk/features/2017/8/property-natter--a-short-history-of-estate-agency

Mike

[Keith Sherwood]

Thanks, Martin and Mike...
I see that Savill and Son dates from 1855, but that's not the firm that I have been led to believe was started up the very same year.  I wonder when those boards advertising for sale/sold/to let/under offer, etc. were first allowed to be displayed outside properties...
Keith

[Mart 'n' Al]

A quick search unearthed this, a bit late, but good value AND tea and biscuits!

http://creditonhistory.org.uk/whats-on/2017/estateagents.aspx

Talk on The History of Estate Agents by David Force (A Newton St Cyres History Group event)

When:   7:30 PM to 9:30 PM Wednesday, 18th January  2017
Where:   Club Room, Newton St Cyres Village Hall, EX5 5BL
Who:   David Force
Admission £2, to include tea and biscuits.

(Why do they all dress like that...?)

Martin

[ShaunJ]

Hi Keith

What firm are you looking for?

[Keith Sherwood]

Hi again, Shaun,
It was actually Harvey and Wheeler...
Keith

[ShaunJ]

I couldn't find any mention of Harvey & Wheeler before 1919 but from their website it appears that the business was bought from a George Fitzroy-Francis at that time and renamed.

I can't find any record at all of a George Fitzroy-Francis !

http://www.harveywheeler.com/history/

[ShaunJ]

Not Fitzroy but Futvoye.

George Futvoye Francis, auctioneer & surveyor (1844-18291929). Futvoye seems to be often transcribed as Futroye.