A LONG-standing player in the Suffolk property market, Pennington Surveyors Ltd, is celebrating its 20th anniversary - nd has marked the occasion in style by winning silver award at the Estate and Letting Agent of the Year awards.

A LONG-standing player in the Suffolk property market, Pennington Surveyors Ltd, is celebrating its 20th anniversary - nd has marked the occasion in style by winning silver award at the Estate and Letting Agent of the Year awards.

Established by Tony and Geraldine Pennington at the beginning of November 1989 with a team of four the company now has a staff of 25 and has become one of the best known property businesses in the area.

The company, which offers a range of property services for buying, selling, letting and renting residential property, started in a first floor office in Crown Hall Chambers, Ipswich and while still at the same address now occupies pretty much the whole block.

Geraldine Pennington, company chairman said: “We started with just four of us and grew very quickly. In those days there were only four specialist letting agents in the town - times have changed since then! “However, as one of the biggest agents in the town we intend to continue to build on our success. We have a very loyal client base and are continually expanding and improving our service with the help of our highly trained and hardworking staff.

“Longevity in the property business is all about knowing your clients and I think what sets us apart is the high level of customer service that we pride ourselves on. Pennington's directors and staff have hundreds of years experience between them!”

Such experience has helped Pennington to be an award winning team for two years running at the prestigious Estate & Letting Agent of the Year Awards.

The company was recognised for its excellent customer service as voted for by their clients over the previous 12 months.

“The award means a huge amount to the team as it recognises the tremendous effort everybody puts in to the business - this is especially meaningful when it is based on what our customers think about us and the service they have received” said Robert Ulph, managing director.

“It's fantastic to see the team getting the credit they deserve.”

While much has changed for Pennington and the local property market over the past 20 years the business ethos remains the same.

“We are a well known and trusted name in Suffolk - which means a great deal to clients especially when you consider moving home is one of the most stressful things you can do so we really are there to help and absorb some of that hassle and make things as smooth as possible,” explains Robert.

“We realise we are in tough economic times and while the current downturn is hitting many people, if you can offer solid, reliable advice and help, you can take away some of that anxiety. I really think it gives comfort to our customers that we bring so much experience and as members of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) and Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA), you are assured the highest professionalism and commitment throughout.”

“We are proud to be part of a successful and vibrant Suffolk,” added Geraldine, “and while it is a challenging time we are very supportive of all initiatives in the local area to bring new businesses and investment to the area.

“As an innovative company we have been at the forefront of many changes in the property business such as being first company in Ipswich to sign up to ARLA the regulating body, the first to promote buy to let schemes in the area and have been responsible for many landmark property sales in the area. Being a dynamic business obviously helps to adapt when changes are needed and as a very busy office, we have a constant buzz which is exciting and essential for a successful business.”

Geraldine Pennington, having worked as hands-on director for the majority of the 20 years has now taken the role of chairman which will leave her just a little more time for her grandchildren and her passions for travel and golf.

With over 40 years experience in the property business Tony Pennington retired in May 2007 to enjoy more of his time on the golf course.

Robert Ulph joined the company in 2006 bringing 17 years experience and was appointed managing director in 2007.

Julian Pennington, Tony and Geraldine's son, joined the business in 2000 and while remaining a director has set up a new business - Real World Energy Solutions - the energy efficiency arm for the SEH Group specialising in commercial property.