Pair shrug off redundancy to set up estate agency

Simon Norton-Lane and Craig Parrot

Two friends who have both taken redundancy after decades with the same insurance company are now homing in on a new business.

Simon Norton-Lane, of Mansfield Woodhouse, has teamed up with Craig Parrott, of Mansfield, to launch the estate agency Open House Mansfield, the local agent with internet prices.

Both have extensive experience in business, sales and customer care, having worked in various leadership roles throughout their 30-year careers.

Norton-Lane said: “I enjoyed my job, but I see being made redundant as an opportunity to go into business. I love talking to people and delivering excellent customer service and attention to detail, and I’m interested in property, so this seemed like the ideal move.”

Parrott added: “My background is similar to Simon’s and I know we can work well together in this new, exciting venture. We have a solid, long-term business plan with challenging targets, but I am confident that we can exceed them.”

Open House Mansfield, based in Mansfield Woodhouse, is part of the national network of Open House estate agents.

Parrott said: “The Mansfield and Ashfield areas have a busy property market, with something for everyone. There are a number of estate agents locally, but we believe we can compete on price and on customer service levels.”

The pair will also act for landlords, offering a full lettings service, and a Find a Tenant service.

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