PFK managing director Andrew Green says the company is “navigating itself effectively” through the coronavirus pandemic, following some restructuring.
While the Kirkby Stephen and Whitehaven estate agencies are now serviced from Penrith and Cockermouth respectively, the Carlisle city centre office is to close and merge into its existing premises at Rosehill, Carlisle.
A statement from the company said: “In comparison with the same period last year, data shows new applicant registrations are up, with significant interest from out-of-area buyers.
“Home owners continue to show desire to re-enter the market with market appraisal activity increasing and new instructions the highest the market has seen in recent years.
“The Chancellor’s Stamp Duty Land Tax holiday has provided further impetus to the market.
“However, whilst some estate agents throughout the country have been slow to reopen, some remain closed, and the outlook in the land and property sector remains uncertain, PFK have used this opportunity to change our operational structure, continuing to enhance our digital offering, alongside the Whitehaven and Kirkby Stephen offices now being serviced from centres in Cockermouth and Penrith respectively.
“As in line with national trends, footfall into our high street premises has reduced significantly in recent years, with many customers preferring to access our services digitally.
“The saleroom has undoubtedly suffered as a result of the pandemic in terms of how it operates.
“Whilst we have had a strong team undertaking virtual and timed online sales, we have taken the opportunity to review the future of this area of our operations with the result being that the saleroom has now completed its final auction of our customers consigned goods.
“Unfortunately, this has led to a number of staff having to be made redundant, which is always hugely regrettable, however we endeavour to protect the overall business in every capacity to create strong foundations upon which our business will grow.
“Going into the second half of the year, initial market conditions are better than we could have hoped for, we remain financially strong and look forward to meeting the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
