Bramleys has reopened its Huddersfield branch as a ‘property showroom’, following a six-week renovation and significant investment.

The 5,380 sq ft office, based at St George’s Square, in the same building it was founded in 1958, has been designed in a lounge style, with a view to looking like one of the £1m+ properties it lists for sale.

A modern boardroom with video technology has been built to host meetings with commercial and developer clients.

Alex McNeil, commercial partner, said: “Huddersfield centre is rising from the ashes – it just needs some good PR.

“There have been vacant properties, but they’re being filled with independent businesses and national brands. We are the most active agent when it comes to lettings/transactions in the town centre, and we are seeing an upward trend.

“We’ve been based here for 65 years and hope to be here for 65 more.”

The company has also invested in new computers for staff; transitioned to Alto – a cloud-based property software solution; purchased iPads so all valuers can present without paper; invested in drone technology to improve the quality of listing images/videos; and retained virtual viewings post-COVID, for professionals who would struggle to view during normal working hours.

Paul Keighley, residential partner at Bramleys, commented: “We recognise that the way people search for houses is changing. Not so long ago, you could rely on Rightmove to find your dream home.

“But a lack of stock means potential buyers want a closer relationship with estate agents – it’s a trend that’s come back around.

“If you want the best house in the best area, there is a lot of competition. Buyers now think outside the box, and we nurture those relationships.”