This article originally appeared in the May 2025 issue of Bristol Life magazine, featuring an interview with our founder, Charlotte Strang.
”We search the entire market on behalf of our clients, including off-market opportunities; advise on offer levels; negotiate on a client’s behalf, and oversee the transaction through to completion, thus saving our buyers’ time, often money, costly mistakes and stress, in what is often a complex and lengthy process”, says Charlotte.
Tell us about the career path that took you to the job
I am a chartered surveyor, and worked at Savills in London for the best part of a decade where I gained experience in various areas of the business before specialising in the valuation of residential property. Valuing some of the finest properties in London gave me a strong appreciation of the attributes which make property an exceptional investment.
What took you back to Bristol?
I relocated back here in 2017 and worked as a development surveyor for five years which enabled me to gain an in-depth knowledge of the local property market, hone my negotiation skills and build up a fantastic network of trusted contacts. The experience I have created from working in the property industry for almost 20 years has
helped immensely in my current role.
When did you decide to start Strang and Co, and what were the initial challenges?
During the pandemic, I paused to reassess my career just as the property market was being reshaped by widespread relocations and evolving home-working needs. I recognised an opportunity to offer independent, expert guidance to buyers, many of who were missing out on properties due to fierce competition.
Timing, however, proved to be my first real test. Immediately after launching Strang & Co, Liz Truss’s government announced their mini-budget which significantly cooled buyer sentiment. The resulting slowdown did, however, give me the space to deepen my industry connections and broaden my professional network, which has greatly benefited the efficacy of my business in the long term.
Who is your typical customer?
My clients range from local residents seeking their ideal home to individuals relocating from other parts of the UK or overseas. They typically fall into three categories: those upsizing, downsizing or pursuing investment opportunities. On several occasions, I have been appointed by parents of Bristol University, who have entrusted me
to secure apartments that meet their children’s living needs, while also fulfilling their investment objectives.
How do you differ from standard estate agents?
Unlike estate agents, who are instructed by a vendor to sell their property, a property search or buying agent works exclusively for the purchaser. Strang & Co is completely independent and therefore searches the market in its entirety, with a particular focus on finding off-market opportunities. We only ever take on a small number of mandates at any one time, ensuring our clients are provided with a fantastic service, and no conflict of interest result.
How do you maintain strong relationships with clients and partners in the industry?
I limit the number of clients I represent at any one time, allowing the necessary time to invest and understand each individual’s circumstances and property aspirations. This focused approach ensures frequent, transparent communication and fosters a deep level of trust. Since founding Strang & Co, I’ve maintained ongoing relationships with every client – a rewarding testament to the enduring connections we build.
How is the property market in Bristol right now?
In recent months, we’ve seen a robust spring market, with increased listings and corresponding demand, particularly compared to the same period in 2024. Understandably, against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and a cost-of-living squeeze, the market remains highly price-sensitive. Properties priced ambitiously have tended to stagnate, whereas well-positioned homes – those that combine an attractive location, high specification, generous outdoor space, parking and strong energy performance – consistently draw competitive interest, with ‘best and final’ bids not being uncommon.
What do you predict to be the next hotspots?
The regeneration of the Temple Quarter and St Philip’s Marsh area, which aim to deliver approximately 10,000 new homes, will be appealing to investors who are willing to take a relatively long-term view. The redevelopment of this area will also benefit surrounding areas such as Brislington, Totterdown and Bedminster, which have already increased in popularity over the past five to 10 years.
YTL’s redevelopment of the former .Filton Airfield is another hotspot, particularly for professionals and families working in the area and will be enhanced further by the direct rail link, scheduled for autumn 2026, from Brabazon (North Filton) direct to Temple Meads.
Where do you see the company in five to 10 years’ time?
I envisage Strang & Co helping an ever-growing number of clients to secure the perfect property for their life stage, backed by a small but highly skilled team with deep local knowledge across a number of geographical areas. I see our reputation resting on delivering honest integrity-driven advice and superb service – we’ll sustain that standard as we continue to expand.
With thanks to Bristol Life magazine for this feature. You can find the original article in their May 2025 issue here.
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