A national network of non-competing independent estate agents has secured new investment from a long-standing supporter.
Nick Cheshire, 35, owner of Nest in Essex, has joined the Ethical Agent Network (EAN) as an investor and strategic partner.
Cheshire was a founding member of the network and will support its future development.
EAN said the investment reflects a focus on shared values, professional standards and industry leadership.
Cheshire has owned and run his own estate agency since the age of 24.
Based in Rayleigh, Essex, the agency operates as an independent business.
Jerry Lyons, founder of the EAN, told EYE: “Nick has believed in the EAN from the very beginning. His coming onboard was a no-brainer. And we can now make decisions that an active, agency owner guides, so everything is done with our members’ best interests at heart and with the realities of running an independent agency in mind.”
He added: “I’m 53, and I’m realistic enough to know that people my age won’t be shaping this industry in five or ten years. That future belongs to younger, tech-savvy agency owners who are still in the thick of running businesses day to day. That’s why Nick’s involvement really matters more than the money he’s put in. He brings energy, current experience of running an agency and loads of fresh ideas.”
Cheshire commented: “I’ve believed in this network from the start because it’s about showcasing behaviours, not buying badges. It supports good independent agents who want to raise standards and grow their businesses by doing the right things. I’m buzzing to help shape the EAN’s next phase.”
Cheshire’s investment will support the network’s operations and inform its future direction.
Founded in March 2024, the network has 36 members, up from 21 a year ago.
Membership is limited to non-competing independent agencies that meet the criteria set out in the Ethical Agency Index.
The Ethical Agency Index assesses agencies using review-platform averages, evidence of community involvement and adherence to eight core commitments, including a requirement not to publicly criticise rival agencies, transparency standards and two undisclosed criteria.