You might think that in the middle of the third lockdown and with firms collapsing right, left and centre, now was not the right time to launch a new business.

But Kent entrepreneurs John-Paul Rafferty and Paul Pickard disagree.

They started their new estate agency on January 2.

Mr Pickard explained: "We were originally going to launch last January. That got pushed back until June, then pushed back again to November. Then in November we said, right, we are going to launch in January no matter what.

"Yes, it's risky to start now, but who can say when would be the right time?"

The business Rafferty and Pickard operates from an office at 27 High Street, Aylesford, but their business is all done online.

The firm specialises in selling "extraordinary homes" - which Mr Pickard said might be "anything from a characterful cottage in Yalding to a £2m mansion."

They use video to market the properties, giving potential buyers a walk-through tour of the premises and aerial footage filmed using drones.

In addition, the pair provide a ‘concierge service’ with the two directors personally handing everything from the initial appraisal, marketing, viewings and sales progressions through to the big day when they hand over the keys to the new owners.

Mr Pickard said: "Fortunately, the Government has said house sales can continue during lockdown. Of course we are taking all precautions."

The business can be found on raffertyandpickard.co.uk

Or call them on 01622 392202.

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