James Laurence Sales and Lettings in Birmingham

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

On July 25th, I lost my fob, which is essential for accessing my building and performing basic tasks like taking out the trash. I contacted Centric to request a new fob, and they responded via email asking for proof of my tenancy agreement, which I provided. However, days went by without any follow-up email from them. This situation was extremely stressful as I couldn't leave my apartment for fear of not being able to re-enter the building. On July 29th, I decided to call Centric again. They informed me that I needed to contact my property management office, James Laurence, as they were supposed to handle the situation with Centric. I spoke with an employee named Anita Chow, who assured me she would assist. However, every time I called her, she said she was trying to contact Centric but was not getting a response. She also asked me to reach out to Centric directly, despite previously being told that James Laurence should handle the matter. Today is August 2nd, and I still haven't received a new fob. This is unacceptable, and the lack of urgency from both companies has been frustrating. When I finally managed to speak with Anita Chow، again, she spoke to me with a cold demeanor, as if the issue wasn't important, even though I've been struggling with this for eight days. When I expressed my frustration and asked what she would do in my situation, she responded rudely, saying, "You're the one who lost it, not me." Just now, I received a call from Lindsay, who informed me that I could get a temporary fob, but it would cost £50 until they could issue me a new one. This situation is both funny and strange, why wasn't this option mentioned from the beginning? Why only now, when they see that I'm extremely frustrated and upset? this experience is a clear indication of extremely poor customer service from both Centric and James Laurence. They should know how to treat their customers better. This will be the last time I deal with these companies. If this is how they handle a simple issue, I can't imagine how they would respond to a more serious one.

Aziz · 6 August 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

Being a very recent tenant through James Laurence, our experience in taking a flat on rent is nothing, but disappointing. The flat we moved in was not tidy as opposed to the claim, infact inventory report suggested the same evidence. It was with debris and filth. Moreover when we reported on the very first thing noticed after move in, the post letting support was sheer frustrating without any help on ground. Their letting agents Kitti and Charlotte looked very inexperienced and incompetent while dealing with such sensitive health hazard instead advised us to clean ourselves to suppress the matter. Apparently we had to report to local council for kids health and safety hazard to invenue into. I'm attaching few snaps to depict horrible experience my family especially kids gone through. James Laurence should enhance post letting support instead of focusing on selling unwanted property damage insurance (which ofcourse comes with additional hidden costs) and hire experienced people, if they want to remain good brand in ever since competitve real estate market.

Khalid · 6 August 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

This is the type of reviews that I love to write! I an a potential tenant. I saw a loft in Birmingham that I fell in love with. I called yesterday at 5:27pm not realising the office closed at 5:30pm. Daniella picked up the phone and she was so kind and helpful. I fell in love with a property and I hope I get to move in at the end of the month! Daniella is very professional, proactive, passionate about her job and assisting others. This is by far the best experience I have had with an Estate agent. I actually think it may be the only time. I look forward to viewing the property next week and making an offer! Thank you Daniella for all your help and support.

Matt · 6 August 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 1/5

Trustpilot

Poor Customer Service Experience with Centric and James Laurence

On July 25th, I lost my fob, which is essential for accessing my building and performing basic tasks like taking out the trash. I contacted Centric to request a new fob, and they responded via email asking for proof of my tenancy agreement, which I provided. However, days went by without any follow-up email from them. This situation was extremely stressful as I couldn't leave my apartment for fear of not being able to re-enter the building.On July 29th, I decided to call Centric again. They informed me that I needed to contact my property management office, James Laurence, as they were supposed to handle the situation with Centric. I spoke with an employee named Anita Chow, who assured me she would assist. However, every time I called her, she said she was trying to contact Centric but was not getting a response. She also asked me to reach out to Centric directly, despite previously being told that James Laurence should handle the matter.Today is August 2nd, and I still haven't received a new fob. This is unacceptable, and the lack of urgency from both companies has been frustrating. When I finally managed to speak with Anita Chow، again, she spoke to me with a cold demeanor, as if the issue wasn't important, even though I've been struggling with this for eight days. When I expressed my frustration and asked what she would do in my situation, she responded rudely, saying, "You're the one who lost it, not me."Just now, I received a call from Lindsay, who informed me that I could get a temporary fob, but it would cost £50 until they could issue me a new one. This situation is both funny and strange, why wasn't this option mentioned from the beginning? Why only now, when they see that I'm extremely frustrated and upset? this experience is a clear indication of extremely poor customer service from both Centric and James Laurence. They should know how to treat their customers better. This will be the last time I deal with these companies. If this is how they handle a simple issue, I can't imagine how they would respond to a more serious one.

Aziz · 2 August 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Rating only, no written review.

Tom · 28 July 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Rating only, no written review.

Shivam · 28 July 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Great letting agent, Jade in particular has been fantastic in sorting out issues prior to moving in.

Perry · 28 July 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

James Laurence have always been my go to choice when I have wanted to rent out my apartment. They are always very responsive and have great knowledge of the area and the market. Charlotte Blount is exceptional and is my go to contact and has always been able to find me new tenants very quickly.

Valentina · 28 July 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 2/5

Google

Initially my experience was brilliant but after moving into my new flat things drastically went down hill. 3 main areas of problems include a vast amount of previous tenant belongings being left in flat for removal, a myriad of maintenance issues including safety issues that I am gobsmacked weren't resolved prior to my tenancy, and finally cleanliness. I was shocked to find multiple examples of cleaning not being completed and have attached a selection of photos as evidence of this. The contact at James Lawrence assured me it had been cleaned but look at the photos and you tell me. I experience OCD and haven't been able to live in the flat since picking up keys and have felt forced to organise a professional end of tenancy deep clean directly and fund it myself. JL refuse to let me deduct this from my rent in contrast to advice from Citizens Advice. For a 1100 monthly flat I expected more than a hole in a door, a hole in the living room wall, multiple counts of mould build up around window frames, a mattress in need of replacing, disgusting standards of cleanliness in places, drawing and very heavy scuff marks throughout walls, a peiling ceiling and chipped furniture. Yes, I viewed the flat but I realise I was complacent expecting these blatant issues to be addressed with a simple fresh coat of paint and proactive maintenance response. I ask two questions... does the landlord of the flat understand the condition it is actually in? I get issues are ware and tare over time but it seems high time for some touching up to be done. Secondly, how on earth was money not taken from the previous tenants deposit to remediate these issues? I would have been embarrassed to leave a property in such a condition. Edit: I am pleased as per response that a contractor will be sent out regarding maintenance issues but I wasn't aware of this before hand as email responses stopped. Cleaning is being dealt with directly by me for own peace of mind. Awaiting advice on removal of belongings. Thanks for your response Henry. Makes me feel better.

David · 28 July 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Genuine buyer/seller? look no further! James Laurence Estate Agency is the place. I highly recommend them and would not hesitate to do businesses again. The team succeeded to seal the deal from the first client without any prior marketing in a very short period of time. A gentleman handshake between myself and the buyer, followed by legal formalities and the deal was shortly concluded. They are professional, proactive, transparent, and excellent communicators throughout and after the sale irrespective of my whereabouts. They also maintained good communication with the solicitors. Sam you’re a legend, special thanks to you as well as Sophie and Henry. You folks are the real asset of James Laurence Estate Agency. Wish the team more success, and a prosperous future ahead. Till next time.

Khaled · 28 July 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We were selling my parents apartment after my father had died and we had moved my mum into a care home. So they were difficult times and I live 120 miles away. They helped us sell the house and also let it while we waited for probate - the level of service from all departments and staff was excellent. Nothing was too much bother.

Pete · 26 July 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (5 Chad Square)

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

Re: Regarding the number of issues reported, you are perfectly aware that most issues were reported directly to our property manager. If the property manager was not trained to log the issues into your system, this is once again on you. Indeed, you are incorrect. In 26 months we reported 8 minor problems (broken table, broken extractor hood, broken heater, broken washing machine, dripping sink pipes, dripping kitchen tap, damaged vinyl floor, broken kickboard) and 3 major ones (broken boiler, holes in the wall from which mice entered, leaky skylights); of these, only 3 minor ones were resolved in a "timely" manner. For 4 others it took between 2 to 4 months, and the remaining 4 (of which 2 major ones) were never addressed. You should have plenty of emails proving it. You are also incorrect about the water cylinder. We reported an initial leak for which a contractor was called, but nothing could be done other than tightening a bolt, as a new piece was needed. The piece was never approved, as confirmed to us by the contractor. Not long after, it started leaking from somewhere else (as well expected), until the situation escalated dramatically. Lastly, the skylights are a problem that the landlord should have addressed immediately, even just temporarily, as the Council confirmed. Instead, we were left for 6 months with leaking windows and unable to use the living room, in a flat that became so cold that the temperature dropped below 10 °C on more than one occasion. The fact that you were regularly chasing the block management then is good to know; unfortunately, we never received a single update from you on the matter. We appreciate that you had no power on these issues; however, the fact that, even now, you refuse to acknowledge that you could have acted with more regard toward us, is in itself the problem. All the best. Original: Sadly, the worst experience in years of renting. Admittedly we were rather unlucky, renting a duplex flat in the city centre in seemingly good condition but with endless problems in reality, and a landlord not remotely interested in maintaining his own property (coincidentally now on sale). In just over two years we experienced far too many minor problems (most of which from day 1), and at least 3 major ones (two of which were never resolved), all coming down to poor maintenance over the years. We don't hold James Laurence responsible for this, as maintenance is ultimately the landlord's responsibility. However, the incompetency shown is entirely on them. Communication was incredibly stressful, with us constantly having to chase them for the simplest update. On different occasions then, we felt almost intentionally misled. This was especially evident when we opened a misrepair case with the Council after being ignored for months on major issues reported, including skylight windows leaking into the living room in full winter; a problem that in almost 6 months was never resolved. In addition, they never seemed to understand the severity of the issues or the stress and disruption they caused us. For example (one of many), when we reported that the boiler upstairs - over 30 years old - had broken and started leaking through to the downstairs kitchen, it was only when the volume of water dripping reached litres per hour, causing us a sleepless night emptying buckets and a day off work, that a contractor was called as a matter of urgency. Two months had passed in the meanwhile, and this is simply unacceptable. Finally, when we left, they tried to deduct £120 from our deposit in the most unprofessional way, without even informing us. As a side note, in over 7 years of renting we never had a single pound deducted from our deposit, nor had we had to start a dispute. So no, we wouldn't recommend them to anyone thinking of renting. Our experience as tenants was beyond stressful, and for an agency that "prides itself on customer service", they were shockingly unprofessional, unhelpful and unsympathetic on all levels, and there is absolutely no justification for how badly our situation was handled.

Fernanda · 28 June 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Henry Crane is the estate agent you need when you want to complete your sale. His dedication to go over and beyond to support me through my sale is extraordinary and reflects the commitment that James Laurence have in guiding you through every step of the selling process. Along with his colleagues Sam and Jack they have supported me through this process. If you are looking to sell your property then ask for Henry Crane from James Laurence Estate Agents. Truly they are the best at what they do.

Mohinder · 8 June 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

I can't fault James Lawrence's care and professionalism throughout our experience with letting our flat. Charlotte B. assisted me throughout the process and responded promptly to all of my enquires and was always available if I needed any help. My husband and I were highly impressed with Charlotte, Henry and James Laurence and would not hesitate in recommending them.

Lisa · 2 June 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Can’t thank the team at James Laurence enough for all their hard work, in particular Henry and Sam. Great service from start to finish. Very knowledgeable , great advice and overall very easy to deal with. It’s been an absolute pleasure, will recommend to anyone looking to sell their property. Thank you!

Christina · 26 May 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

As an overseas landlord, I had a very positive experience working with the team at James Laurence. After my apartment had been vacant for several months under the management of another agent, I decided to switch to James Laurence. The difference was night and day. The team, including Charlotte, Daniella, and Jade, was extremely proactive. Even though I am located in another part of the world, they always answer my inquiries quickly by email, no matter if it's early morning or late at night in the UK. Most importantly, they generated numerous viewings and found the right tenant for my property within just 2 weeks. Their dedication and customer service are just unparalleled. Besides, their operations are very transparent, with the use of a client portal that allows me to easily view details of the scheduled viewings, feedback, marketing response, and tenancy information. The portal is user friendly, making my experience as a landlord seamless and hassle free. They also have an exceptional online presence that instantly reminded me of the popular real estate show "Selling Sunset". Their videos in social media emanate similar polished, high-energy vibe - from the visually stunning property listings to the engaging video content featuring the charismatic team. This level of digital sophistication and customer-centric approach gave me great impression of the team's creativity, energy, and enthusiasm. To conclude, I would highly recommend James Laurence to any landlord looking for a reliable and effective property management solution. Their expertise, responsiveness, and use of digital platforms are truly outstanding and make them a cut above the rest.

Carter · 26 May 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

As a London-based letting agency, we engaged James Laurence to handle a property rental after being disappointed by a local competitor. Our experience with James Laurence has been exceptional from the outset and decided we will trial out services on a sole agency basis. Charlotte our primary point of contact, has been outstanding. She demonstrated remarkable expertise of the area, provided realistic insights into market rent, and outlined timelines for securing suitable tenants. We wholeheartedly endorse their services and plan to continue working with James Laurence in the foreseeable future. Keep up the excellent work! Also a big heads up to Daniella and Jade:-) Aziz and the Farrell Lewis Team

Farrell · 19 May 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

James Laurence Estate Agents (Lettings) were very quick to find new tenants for us for our 2 bedroom apartment near to Birmingham city centre. James Lawrence Estate Agents (Lettings) is a well managed organisation, and the people that we interacted with the most (Charlotte and Jade) were professional, friendly and efficient. We feel that it is particularly important to note that Charlotte and Jade always kept us informed, and they always did what they said they were going to do. And last, but not least, we never had to ask twice for something or for something to be done. We would highly recommend James Lawrence Estate Agents (Lettings).

Neil · 19 May 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

We can’t praise the team at James Lawrence enough. They are absolutely wonderful. Right from the start with Jack and Sophie they guided us through every step and had a kind and considerate approach. Sophie was brilliant at handling difficult situations. Sam kept me going with his cheerful disposition and was a constant form of support and encouragement. He is so professional and his humour lightened up even the most challenging of times! Henry’s professionalism was second to non, he was always available and was amazing when closing the deal at the end. We cannot recommend the team at James Lawrence enough. They are the complete package and a delight to work with.

Lesley · 19 May 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

Incompetent, negligent and deceitful. We were fed a pack of lies in order to conceal the condition of and secure a tenancy for a poorly maintained and heavily damaged property. Myself and a friend were looking to rent 5, Elmwood Court, and the first red flag should have been evident when we were told that we could only be offered a virtual viewing as there was no availability for in-person viewings. We were sent a video that we were told in writing was taken on 21/02/2024, and although the property was a bit untidy, we couldn’t see any discernible issues and decided to proceed. Whilst this was a mistake on our part, we were ultimately misled to accept a property that was not in the state advertised. We made several requests to see the property in person after signing our contracts, yet these were continuously ignored or we were told there was no availability for anyone to show us around. I’m not sure what professional estate agency can’t spare anyone to show a tenant around a property over an entire month, unless they're trying to hide something. A few days before our planned move-in date, after calling to chase key collection, I was told that the previous tenants had caused “damage to furniture” and our options were to move in acknowledging the damage or delay our move-in date. JL has always insisted we were informed of the damage as soon as they became aware of it, however, we have never believed this as the condition of the property would have been apparent at check-out. There were further attempts to conceal the condition of the property over the following week, as our requests to see evidence of this damage were continuously ignored or deflected and the details of which furniture items were affected kept changing, leaving us suspicious that there were serious problems with the property. I am surprised at the glowing accounts of Charlotte Blount. We found her rude and unpleasant to deal with, and she kept exerting pressure on us to blindly resign our tenancy agreement. With no clarity on the situation a week later and due to the stress we were being placed under, we felt we had no choice but to put in a formal complaint and request an urgent viewing. When I viewed the property the following day, I was frankly disgusted at what I found. The state of the flat was worse than expected, with almost all furniture items broken, a ripped sofa, heavily marked walls and a smell of damp in one of the bedrooms. The piece de resistance was the foul stains on the bath, which do not appear in the video we were sent, nor on the Rightmove photos, funnily enough, and it became clear that the video we were shown was likely taken years ago, as these stains would have developed over time. Due to this breach of contract, we requested to cancel our tenancy and receive a full refund, and it is interesting to note that this was actioned without any resistance from their side. Despite this, once again, we had to chase JL for return of monies paid as we received no acknowledgment of our email, only an automatic notification from Goodlord to say our tenancy had been cancelled a day later. After calling several times and with no one in the office capable of providing an answer, I was eventually put through to Henry who tried to give it the big one and tell me that I couldn’t make “unrealistic demands” to speak to him urgently. I never asked to speak to him specifically, and we were understandably concerned about the lack of confirmation regarding the return of a significant amount of money, but this serves to demonstrate his arrogance. As expected, the outcome of our formal complaint was as unprofessional as the rest of our interactions with the company - littered with misspellings, typos and poor grammar - and laughably absolved themselves of any blame and stated that their “proactive” team only had our best interests at heart. It’s utterly disgraceful to see that this property was put back on the market with outdated and inaccurate photos. Please spare yourselves the stress of what we went through and look elsewhere.

Charlotte · 10 May 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Thanks to Sophie, Jack and Henry, I'm very happy with the service provided through out the sale of my first flat. I liked the customer portal I was given access to, which provided me with everything I needed to know about how they marketed the flat, the online exposure, viewers and the thing I was amazed most was they had very good follow-up for each each viewing. I know they were doing the best they could to accelerate the sale. Thanks!

W · 10 May 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (37-39 Ludgate Hill)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Would highly recommended. Dealt with Lotti and Jorja, they were great and helped us through the process of securing a private property rental for my fiancée and I.

Alex · 16 April 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (5 Chad Square)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Sam and Henry have done an excellent job at helping me

Ana · 16 April 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (5 Chad Square)

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Charlotte is a great agent. Responsive and professional! Thank you for your help!

Seven · 16 April 2024 · James Laurence Sales and Lettings Birmingham (5 Chad Square)