Winkworth Estate Agents - www.winkworth.co.uk

One word … APPALLING … Would never recommend or use again.

I had the misfortune of dealing with Winkworth Southbourne Estate Agents recently, and I must say it was a really disappointing experience from start to finish.

I know it's a franchise, but the members of this specific agency seem to operate with a complete disregard for their clients' best interests, resorting to dishonesty, price inflation and unethical practices in the hope they can line their pockets with hefty commissions.

It's no secret that the housing market in Bournemouth can be competitive, but Winkworth Southbourne takes advantage of this by artificially inflating property prices. They lure unsuspecting sellers with promises of unrealistic valuations, only to later pressure them into accepting lower offers once the property fails to attract genuine interest.

Furthermore, their agents seem to have a blatant disregard for honesty. During my interactions with them, I caught them in multiple lies and half-truths. It became evident that their primary goal was not to provide accurate information but to try and manipulate me into making decisions that benefited the agency, rather than myself, or the sellers.

Since my interaction, I've heard numerous accounts from other people who have also fallen foul to their underhand tactics.

This agency seemingly stops at nothing to try and secure a sale.

Steer clear of Winkworth Southbourne unless you're prepared to be taken advantage of and left with a bitter taste of regret.

I called the Dartmouth Winkworth branch to ask about a property we are interested in. We’re cash buyers. I was polite and had some very normal (basic) questions about the property before booking a visit as we don’t live near - my husband and I are experienced in this area. I didn’t mind so much that he wasn’t much help, but I do object to his aggressive and condescending manner. He objected to questions about how long the property had been on the market and how much interest there had been, giving me dismissive, unhelpful responses. He asked if I had “ever bought a property before” and if I knew anything about the market. Every reasonable question I asked about the property was turned by him into a personal attack on me to suggest that I didn’t know what I was doing! I wondered if he was a complete misogynist and could hardly believe the conversation I was having. He told me to put my questions in an email and said that he had never had a conversation like that one before! Then he hung up. I suppose he might be new to being an estate agent, although he didn’t sound like that was the case - regardless, that’s no excuse! I’ve had plenty of business dealing with estate agents and asking questions and I’ve never encountered anyone so rude and patronising. If I were the person paying Winkworths to sell that property I would be very displeased.

Family of 4, boiler not working. They are the property managment the landlord selected. Called on Saturday morning, they wasted our time with information downloaded from the Internet I looked up myself too. Eventually they claimed I had no gas when I mentioned the hobs were working. So they decided to call on Monday to see if they could send someone to take a look. It was forecasted to be -5 degress during the night and it was like that. I had to call myself an emergency service, pay it, and of course it wasn't the gas. Totally careless people as humans and business. Cannot say as a landlord but if you are renting best to stay away from them. Reading office

Dear potential clients of Winkworth Estate Agents,

I would like to make you all aware before you think of signing a contract with this incapable organisation.

Firstly a viewing took place at my property, which I later found footprints all over my brand new cream carpets, on another occasion my wall got damaged by a client that viewed my property so I made contact with the Director regarding costs to fix this, but was told it’s not their responsibility to supervise your property during viewings.

Secondly, the communication and lies regarding clients positions and the ongoing lack of support quickly come to light that we had chosen the wrong agent.

Lastly, my advice to you, would be to never to go with Winkworth as the whole experience was something I wouldn’t want anyone else to go through. We have wasted an entire 4 months with this agent, with much regret!

DISAPPOINTING overall!

I have to say, always had a pleasant experience with the agents, they do take their time for you and they are committed to their work.

Unfortunately I can't say the same about the propriety management team whom I have struggled with since the beginning, they mostly act in behalf of the landlord and they would trick you whenever they can.

I left my old propriety (rented through WW) on the 31st of May 2022 and legally they have 14 days to agree on your deposit refund. We are now 25 days later and I have to chase them so they can chase the landlord.

My fault is that I am unable to obtain a council tax bill online so H&F have sent me one by post which should be received within the next 10 working days. Even if I have provided bank receipts (actual invoices where you can see all the details), they are refusing to accept this, perhaps a way to buy even more time with the deposit.

From my very own experience and with this honest review, I am asking you to avoid renting via Winkworth if your propriety will be managed by their team, it's a STRUGGLE!

Winkworth's Southbourne team have managed the letting of my property in Southbourne for more than ten years. As an overseas based landlord I have really appreciated their professionalism and efficient service.

Turn around times are quick, queries are usually responded to within 24 hours. Information is clear and well communicated. Statements arrive timeously and are always accurate. The team is approachable and very effective. My experience is that they have always been prepared to go the extra mile for me as a landlord.

I appreciate their expertise and exceptional service.

Winkworths were very supportive and helpful in my selling and buying. The purchase of house was very complicated and a complete rollercoaster ride from start to finish and they were there to reassure me when I needed it.

I have used Winkworth New Cross branch in London for a couple of years now to market, rent out and manage one of my properties. Overall I have found their service to be excellent.

There have been issues with the property (which is normal), but they have been resolved well and amicably.

Their processes are very efficient, always reply promptly to emails and keep me updated regarding the condition of the property.

They are probably not the cheapest Estate Agent offering this service. However I have experience of a few others and would rather pay a little bit more, and receive a service that ensures the property maintained well.

Having one of the worat experience with Winkworth Reading. The most rude, blunt, unprofessional and money grabbing agency I have ever come across with. Don't fall in trap!!