The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) Propertymark national conference was held at 155 Bishopsgate in London on 14 February 2019. The conference was well attended including a good representation from the committee of the Jersey Estate Agents’ Association (see photo). NAEA Propertymark is the government’s “go to” professional body for estate agents in the UK and works closely with them with regard to Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financial Terrorism together with other initiatives such as the UK forthcoming regulation of estate agents by requiring membership of a professional body and regular training. There were a number of topical speakers, such as Jerry Walters from the Financial Crimes Service who spoke about the serious and complex fraud and money laundering cases utilising property as a means of laundering criminal proceeds and the risks faced by property agents. Clive Robins from the Competition and Markets Authority gave an insight into the illegal practices of cartels, price fixing and market sharing. Clive works closely with members of the public who wish to provide information confidentially.

Other speakers brought humour and insight to the world of business branding and business motivation. With increased legislation and continuing government scrutiny it is important that estate agents have a sound professional body to give training and guidance on the continuing evolution of the law and regulation. The Jersey Estate Agents’ Association (JEAA) works closely with the NAEA Propertymark with regard to organising training and qualifications for professional exams, for the resolution of disputes and consumer complaints, legislation updates and meetings locally to ensure continued professional development. The JEAA is aware of the increasing pressure in the UK for further regulation and professional qualification and strives to promote training and qualification for local agents. JEAA membership opens up these professional services to its members and continues to work with the Jersey government to ensure that property professionals are recognized for the services they provide to consumers.

The conference concluded with Mark Hayward – NAEA Propertymark CEO thanking the delegates for attending in increased numbers for this year’s conference and an update from Mark Bentley – NAEA Propertymark President on his presidential year to date.