The Associate Scheme is designed to ensure that across the national network of more than 700 carefully selected independent estate agents, Guild Members and their employees can demonstrate a thorough understanding of the law and give appropriate advice and guidance to the public.
Lee Cooper, of Hove-based Estate Agents Sawyer & Co, is the 2,000th candidate to become an Associate and to mark the milestone he was presented with a free place on The Guild's Enhanced Training Programme, together with a certificate and a membership badge.
By regularly retaking the modulated exam, Guild agents and their teams can make certain that high standards are maintained and all Associates stay abreast of any changes in legislation, ensuring a trustworthy and professional service.
To pass the exam, candidates are required to have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of estate agency law and good practice including The Estate Agency Act 1979, The Property Misdescriptions Act 1991, The Property Ombudsman Scheme, Money Laundering, Data Protection, Cooling Off, EPC legislation, and Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations.
Marcus Whewell - CEO of The Guild of Professional Estate Agents - said:
"I am delighted that this important milestone in training has been reached. It is our aim to increase the confidence of the public in our Member Agents and the industry generally. My congratulations go to Lee and to all of our qualified Associates."
Since its inception in 1993, The Guild has expressed a clear and unwavering commitment to 'promoting trust and confidence' in estate agency, and the Associate Scheme is one way that our Members can demonstrate to the public their commitment to high standards of professionalism and expertise.
The training programme is constantly being reviewed and updated - for instance we are currently in the process of adding a new dedicated Lettings section to the scheme."
Commenting on his achievement, Lee said:
"It was a great honour to find out I was the 2,000th member to have passed The Guild Associate Scheme - not only because it proves I am up to date with current legislation - but because of what it means to be part of a national network, and the confidence I have in myself and referring business to other members.
I have worked for Sawyer and Co since 2005 and we have been Members of The Guild for two years. Looking ahead to the future of our company, it is exciting that together with the rest of The Guild network, we can create the way forward for our industry, and give the public the assurance they seek from experts in our field.
On a final note I think it's great for a growing network like ours that the Associate Scheme is constantly reviewed and provides examinations for members not only to keep experienced negotiators up to date but also to help new employees when they embark on a career within the industry."
