Oldham and Shaw estate agents join forces

Valentines Estate Agents and Cornerstone Estates and Lettings, two of the most recognised sales and lettings agents in the Oldham area, are now in an official partnership.

The directors of Valentines and Cornerstone, Deborah Valentine and Shereen Howarth respectively, set up their businesses amidst fierce competition in the property market - up against larger corporate brands

Both founders have since earned an impressive number of industry accolades for their sales and lettings performance, at local and regional levels.

In particular, Deborah was awarded a Fellowship of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) and has maintained a steady hold on Shaw listings with a database of almost-exclusively OL2 properties.

The new agreement will see Valentine’s clients referred to the Cornerstone team, as Deborah gradually steps away from the business with a view to retire. 

Deborah said: “I have worked as an estate agent for 45 years and owned my own business for almost a decade. Preparing to step away has been a massive decision.”

When asked why she approached Shereen, Deborah reflected on their shared values. 

She said: “I prioritise my clients over everything else - I wanted to pass the baton over to someone who will look after them, like I have.

"Shereen loves Shaw as much as I do and is passionate about keeping our local community thriving.”

Shereen describes being approached by Deborah as ‘a surprise and an honour’. 

Whilst the Valentines Estate Agents office will close its doors at the close of 2024, the pair have plans to maintain their working relationship for as long as possible.

Deborah will act as a key support role within Cornerstone after her clients have been integrated.

Shereen added: “I come from a financial and business background but nothing can give me the same decades’ worth of experience and contacts as having Deborah for a mentor.

"She’s helping to usher-in a new era for Cornerstone, which I’m hoping will be our biggest and best yet.”

The partnership comes as another achievement in a year of milestones for Cornerstone Estate and Lettings.

Founder Shereen was recently shortlisted by the 2024 Oldham Business Awards for a Community Engagement Award and is in the running to become Oldham’s Business Person of the Year, for a second time after her success in 2022.

Located on 54 Market Street, Shaw, Cornerstone Estate and Lettings facilitates the buying, selling, auction and letting of residential properties, alongside lettings management and accredited mortgage advice.

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