BuckleyBrown

Comments on Agent Fees

I recently had an encounter with Buckley Brown Estate Agents from Mansfield. Initially, all communication went well, and I was given a lot of hope regarding a property I was interested in renting in Newark. It took me two and a half hours to get to the property since I am located outside the Nottinghamshire area. When I arrived, I liked the layout of the property, but I noticed that no work had been done on it. Although the layout was similar to the photos on the website, the decoration was quite run-down, despite being labelled as "ready to move in." Desperate to move, I decided to go ahead with the rental, hoping to renovate the space. I filled out all the necessary paperwork and paid the holding deposit. I was excited until I received some documents that I took my time to read, even the fine print. I sent them a long list of detailed questions regarding the property, including whom to contact in case of an emergency, whether the landlord would repaint, fix the doors, and repair the fence and gate as seen in the pictures, and whether the gas and water meters had been read to document the previous tenant's usage. Some of my questions were answered, while others were dismissed. Then, I received a call from my agent with bad news: the landlord decided not to proceed with my application, and my holding deposit would not be refunded. To make matters worse, they accused me of being dishonest in an attempt to instil fear so that I wouldn't claim my deposit back. Their statement clearly said that if the landlord pulls out, I should get my money back, but if the tenant withdraws, the deposit would be forfeited. I was not at fault in this situation. I asked them where my deposit would go if they refused to reimburse me, but they provided no answer. I suspect they pull this tactic on many prospective tenants to collect deposits. They continue to avoid giving me back my deposit. I strongly advise caution when dealing with Buckley Brown Estate Agents and particularly with the property on Kingway Avenue in New Ollerton, as it seems to be a vehicle for their deceptive practices. I feel victimised in this situation. Those who left more than a 1-star review appear to be individuals involved in buying or selling properties, while renters like me, who are looking for homes, may end up scammed. Please conduct thorough research and read reviews carefully before engaging with this agency.