tj estates was founded in September 2003, and opened at 54 Cotmandene Crescent, St Paul's Cray, Orpington, BR5 2RG, in what some would describe as a neglected shopping parade with little passing trade and within a predominantly ex-local authority estate built in the 1950s to provide housing for families at affordable rents.

Despite negative attitudes from many, Chris Brand and his business partner Andrew Harding, went into the venture with a positive, enthusiastic and determined approach.

Determined to provide vendors and purchasers with a quality service and with an extensive knowledge of the borough and a friendly approach, tj estates has established itself as one of the area's leading independent agents.

As an agency with a difference, they provide a personal service, the tj estates branch team having all lived in the Orpington area for a considerable length of time and for some, all of their lives.

Success has not been down to the location of the estate agency, but the comprehensive advertising, excellent service and a belief in the potential of the area.

With modern-day shopping centres opening such as Bluewater and Lakeside, fewer consumers are using their local High Streets thus proving that businesses such as estate agencies no longer have to rely on a main high street presence.

The Cray Valley is currently part of a regeneration area, with huge European and local council funding being received in recent years and investment being forecast for the foreseeable future.

This historic area provides a variety of housing to suit all requirements from Tudor cottages to Victorian/Edwardian homes. More modern-day developments include 1930s and 50s style properties, modern style apartments and developments, including conversions of historic buildings.

The housing market therefore is extensive, with a superb choice of good size accommodation to suit all budgets, at affordable prices.

The area itself has an excellent choice of both primary and secondary schools, and is well serviced by transport, including a regular local bus service, whilst the mainline station of St Mary Cray provides excellent links into central London, the Kent coast and beyond.

The countryside and greenbelt land throughout the valley provides a spacious open greenbelt ambiance, with spectacular views from many landmarks that make for excellent relaxation therapy. The valley even has its own golf course, fitness centre/gym, ski slope and there is also an ancient river, which runs through the historic villages to the beautiful Priory Gardens Nature Reserve, with its open parkland, historic museum and library building.

Additionally, Scadbury Park in St Paul's Cray is also a nature reserve, with open woodland and parkland, which is protected by greenbelt legislation.

Throughout the valley and villages, the area is well serviced by a superb choice of shops, from antique showrooms to beauty salons and a comprehensive choice of restaurants, bars and takeaways. The famous Bluewater shopping centre is conveniently accessible, as well as the M20 and M25, which provide excellent transport links as well as routes to the major airports.

tj estates encourages new purchasers/investors to the area as investment is ongoing and anyone looking to purchase, invest or sell within the borough are more than welcome to visit their property showroom, telephone or email, for purchasing and marketing advice with a positive and friendly attitude, without obligation.

Visit: www.tjestates.co.uk

Email: info@tjestates.co.uk