Industry Interview: Spencer Fortag MARLA MNAEA of Dockside Property Services Kent
December 8, 2016
How important is it for estate agents to embrace innovation and technology in the industry to both find new clients and marketing their clients property?
I don’t think this is important. I believe it is essential. Clients today, of whatever age, tend to be tech savvy so agents that embrace bothÿinnovation and technology will flourish. Those that do not evolve will, like theÿdinosaurs, become extinct. Innovation and technology allows us to market to clients. we would not normally be able to, in a way that engages and excites them.
They say traditional / high street estate agents may disappear and be replaced by online and hybrid agencies – What is your opinion on that?
Personally, I welcome the challenge that online andÿhybrid agents bring. I do not believe high streetÿagents will be replaced because I feel that trad-agents can offer a better and more personalised service. Property, like car sales for example, remains one of the fewÿbusiness transactions where actual people still need/prefer to view the actual product on offer. Until weÿhave full-on, holographic, virtual reality property tours, trad-agents really do have the upper hand!
Has the choice to leave Europe, Brexit, made any effect on sales of property and consumer confidence within your area?
I operate in two very different regions; Medway and Canary Wharf. I believe the impact on Brexit in any given area isÿdirectly correlated to how that area voted. Canary Wharf, for example, with its highÿpercentage of financial services workers, voted at around 70% to stay. Medway,ÿhowever, voted at almost the same number to leave. Therefore, the result was felt more as a shock in Canary Wharf, than in Medway. Some overseas buyers haveÿexpressed concerns, but the reasons that most of them buy in theÿUK and London have not changed. We stillÿhave a safe, democratic society,ÿsteadfast land titles, low interest rates and an excellentÿcultural and educational reputation. Long may those continue!
2013 – 2016ÿARLA Regional Representative for Kent
MD Dockside Property Services Kent Limited
Regional Manager Landmark Estates
You May Also Enjoy
Different Conservatory Designs and Styles
When it comes to selecting a conservatory, the design is paramount in defining its character and functionality. There are several popular designs, each offering a unique aesthetic and purpose. The Victorian conservatory, with its ornate detailing and multi-faceted roof, evokes a sense of timeless elegance. This style often features decorative finials, intricate glazing, and a…
Read More 
Planning Bill is a huge opportunity to save British construction
The Government has finally unveiled the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, introducing a number of measures that change some fundamental elements of how planning works. Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), commented: “The Labour Government is wasting no time in proving that their manifesto pledges on planning reform are real. Planning…
Read More 
Bank of England Mortgage Lenders and Administrators Statistics showing increase in first time buyers
Mortgage Lenders and Administrators Statistics – 2024 Q4 The Mortgage Lenders and Administrators Return (MLAR) is a quarterly statistical release aggregated from data on mortgage lending activities provided by around 340 regulated mortgage lenders and administrators. Key findings The outstanding value of all residential mortgage loans increased by 0.5% from the previous quarter to £1,678.2…
Read More 
Law Firm Sees 94% Increase In Home Sellers ahead of Stamp Duty Change
Taylor Rose, the leading independent law firm, has seen a 94% increase in conveyancing instructions compared to last year. Data reveals that Taylor Rose has received 5,297 instructions – the point when a buyer moves forward with the purchase agreement of a property – in January and February 2025 compared to 2,738 in the same…
Read More 
The Importance of Using the Correct Parts and Safety Measures in Mechanical Operations
Mechanical operations involve complex machinery and equipment that require precision, durability, and strict safety protocols. Whether working in manufacturing, automotive repair, or industrial maintenance, using the right components—such as a choke cable, Numatic spare parts, or implementing safety measures like a retractable barrier—is crucial for operational efficiency and accident prevention. This article explores the significance…
Read More 
Breaking Property News 11/03/25
Daily bite-sized proptech and property news in partnership with Proptech-X. Aurelius company tmGroup acquires Veya Press Release – London – tmGroup, a leading provider of property data and technology solutions, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Veya, an innovative title deed analysis and early warning platform. This strategic acquisition comes quickly after the business recently…
Read More