The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) and National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) have launched Propertymark – altering their emphasis from industry faced licensing to consumer protection. The new organisation will speak with a single voice uniting the interests of all its audiences.

Although both ARLA and NAEA have represented the property sector to key audiences within the industry, consumers tend to have little awareness of either organisation. It is clear that now, more than ever before, the public needs a far better understanding of how to choose a property agent that had the consumer’s interest at heart.

David Cox, ARLA CEO and Mark Hayward, NAEA CEO say “Having a home is the most important issue for consumers and our members are there to protect and guide people with their property transactions. At present customers don’t know where to go for advice or can’t be sure if they are dealing with a professional. We are changing this. We will reach out to customers directly so they recognize Propertymark and understand that by using a Propertymark protected agent they and their money are safe.

Propertymark is a stamp of approval for consumers when they seek professional property expertise in buying, selling, renting, leasing or valuing a property. It stands for protection for the consumer, and offers the highest standards and qualifications among property professionals. Propertymark protected agents have opted for regulation in an unregulated sector, and provide reassurance for consumers as well as protection against rogue operators.”