Prepare to be filtered out, like trash.
I recently enquired about two commercial units through Longstaff Estate Agents and, unfortunately, the experience fell well below what I’d expect from a professional agency.
My initial enquiry was simple and practical. I asked a short list of standard questions any serious tenant would need answered before progressing, including electrical supply (single vs three-phase), potential for upgrades, water pressure and flooring. These are basic due diligence points, nothing unusual.
After waiting a while (it was bank Holiday in all fairness), i received a call that felt unnecessarily patronising and overly formal.
I was told that “Mr Longstaff” was unavailable, and more concerningly, that one of the properties I’d asked about would not be offered for viewing as it was considered “unsuitable.”
This decision was made without any real understanding of my business, my experience or what I was actually looking for.
To be clear, I wasn’t asking for advice on suitability. I was asking to view a property.
It’s not the role of an agent to make assumptions and filter opportunities on behalf of someone they haven’t taken the time to understand. A good agent facilitates decisions, they don’t make them for you.
I was then (obviously) directed towards a more expensive unit, which turned out to be less suitable than the one I wasn’t even allowed to view.
For context, I’ve built and exited a multi-million-pound business from the ground up. I understand commercial property, scaling operations and working within limitations. Being told what is or isn’t suitable, from someone who is not involved in this project (without even a proper conversation) felt dismissive at best.
In the end, I chose to withdraw my interest entirely.
This isn’t about one property, it’s about approach. There’s a clear difference between guidance and gatekeeping, and this felt like the latter. Too many people are telling others what they can and cannot do, and this behaviour needs calling out.
I’d encourage any agency to review on how they deal with prospective tenants.
Professionalism isn’t just about tone, it’s about listening, showing respect and allowing people to make their own informed decisions.
Acting as a higher power and declining viewings to serious parties is a strange way of working. I'm sure landlords relying on you wouldn't be thrilled about this.