For the first time this year, agents were recognised in their respective counties at the ESTAS – and it will be the same again next year.

Traditionally, agents are ranked in regional categories, but the competition has grown to such levels in recent years that agents can now secure a ‘Best in County’ accolade.

Simon Brown, who organises the ESTAS, said: “Recognising agents within their counties is something we have been wanting to do for a while.

“The majority of our agents are competing locally within county boundaries so it only seemed natural to look at the results in this way.

“Giving agents a ‘Best in County’ badge should prove to be a really valuable marketing tool as most customers are buying, selling and renting locally.

“The competition to win a regional award is incredibly fierce and the difference between gold, silver or bronze is sometimes minuscule.

“The ‘Best in County’ awards give us a chance to recognise the efforts of other agents, all of whom made the ESTAS shortlist, but may have just missed out on a top three finish in their region.”

This year, a record 32,000 questionnaires were completed by customers.

Entries for the 2015 competition are now open. The competition is open to all agents in the UK. Single offices will compete in county, regional and national categories.

There are also national categories for small, medium and large chains as well as Best Online Agent.

Eye readers can click on the front page panel to get a 10% discount on their entry fees.