AN ESTATE agency has announced its new signing, as it seeks to improve its service.
Reading FC legend Mick Gooding runs Gooding & Co, and is welcoming Nicky West as a sales manager. She has been tasked with taking the business to the next level.
Mick needs little introduction to any Royals fan: a key player on the pitch, a stint as manager, and now a valued part of BBC Radio Berkshire’s commentary team.
Nicky has worked in real estate for 18 years, including with Rightmove, OnTheMarket and online agency Strike.
Now she’s turning her attention to the area where she was born and raised.
“When the chance arose to join Gooding & Co, I jumped at the opportunity to be part of a local and strong customer-focused business,” she said.
“One of the reasons we know the local market so well is because we all live in Reading. We’re very proud of our town and care about our community so it is a real privilege to be able to sell our neighbours’ homes.”
Mick launched Gooding & Co in January 2021, and says he brings a fresh approach to estate agency, combining flexibility that comes from being a small independent firm with high-quality service.
“Despite the risk and challenges involved in setting up a business during lockdown, Gooding & Co has continued to grow,” he said. “I’m incredibly happy that we are going in the right direction, and of what we have achieved in such little time. I am very positive about our future.
“During my time as a professional footballer, I moved around the country with different clubs and bought and sold many properties. During this time, I came across some very poor estate agents.
“When I started my own business, I was determined to deliver a fresh approach and strive to be the best. Our core values are honesty, hard work and giving our clients an excellent customer service/experience.
“Our job is to get the best possible price for our sellers, from the best buyer available.”
He says that this approach is what is helping him receive five-star reviews from clients. These are posted on the allagents.co.uk website, and has seen the firm awarded silver in the Best Estate Agent in the RG2 postcode area.
Mick, who is currently enjoying the off-season, said: “We have always known that the key to our success at Gooding & Co is the customer service we provide our clients, which is why we are so thrilled to have Nicky on board.
“Her ethos is based on exceptional customer service and her extensive experience and proven track record in the industry make her the perfect candidate to help us grow the business.”