Search & Acquisition
Our fully managed property search and acquisition service
A complete search, carefully managed
We begin by understanding the property required, preferred locations, budget, timescale and wider personal considerations. We then undertake a structured search, assess suitable opportunities and manage the purchase or rental through to completion or the commencement of the tenancy.
The Search Process
1. Initial Consultation
A clear search strategy is agreed, including geographical scope, property type, timescale and the approach to both publicly marketed and private opportunities.
2. Market Search
We monitor the market, maintain contact with relevant agents and use our professional network to identify suitable properties.
3. Property Assessment
Shortlisted properties are considered against the brief. We provide clear advice on suitability, value, condition, location and long-term considerations.
4. Viewings and Recommendations
We coordinate viewings and, where appropriate, preview properties on the client’s behalf. Only opportunities considered worthy of further attention are recommended.
5. Negotiation
We advise on offer strategy, present and negotiate terms and represent the client’s interests throughout discussions with the selling or letting agent.
6. Purchase or tenancy management
Once terms are agreed, we coordinate the relevant agents, solicitors, surveyors, mortgage advisers and other professionals. We maintain oversight through to completion or the start of the tenancy.
Purchase and rental searches
Search & Acquisition is available to clients purchasing a property or seeking a high-quality rental.
The same considered approach applies to both: a clearly defined brief, comprehensive market coverage, independent assessment, careful negotiation and oversight through to the point at which the property is secured.
Where a client wishes to conduct their own search but requires advice on particular properties, value or negotiation, our Buying Advice service may be more appropriate.
Fees
Fees are agreed at the outset and reflect whether the instruction concerns a purchase or rental, the scope of the search and its complexity.
Further information is available in our Guide to Our Fees.
Discuss your property search
To discuss a purchase or rental search, please contact CB Williams Property to arrange a confidential initial consultation.
Case Studies
Featured Case Studies
Selected instructions
Family home following a move from London
A family instructed CB Williams Property to find a long-term home in the South of England. The location needed to accommodate commuting and school journeys while supporting the family’s wider priorities. Following a targeted search, we identified and acquired a suitable house from long-standing owners who were downsizing.
Country house for a family returning to the UK
A young family returning to the UK after several years in Asia required a country house in an area they already knew well. Working with the clients while they remained overseas, we assessed opportunities against their requirements for the home, surrounding area and children’s schooling. A suitable property was identified and agreed following their visit. We subsequently managed a complex chain and completed the purchase in time for the summer holidays.
London townhouse for a growing family
Clients with a principal country residence required a London home for their growing family. We advised on the most suitable central London locations and what their budget could reasonably secure. CB Williams Property identified and acquired an early 19th-century townhouse on a garden square in South Kensington, negotiating terms below the guide price.
London pied-à-terre for a regular commuter
A client based primarily in the countryside required a London base for three or four nights each week, with sufficient space for meetings and private entertaining. CB Williams Property conducted the rental search and secured an apartment in Albion Riverside with suitable living space, a river-facing balcony and views towards Chelsea.
Family home following a move from London
A family instructed CB Williams Property to find a long-term home in the South of England. The location needed to accommodate commuting and school journeys while supporting the family’s wider priorities. Following a targeted search, we identified and acquired a suitable house from long-standing owners who were downsizing.
Country house for a family returning to the UK
A young family returning to the UK after several years in Asia required a country house in an area they already knew well. Working with the clients while they remained overseas, we assessed opportunities against their requirements for the home, surrounding area and children’s schooling. A suitable property was identified and agreed following their visit. We subsequently managed a complex chain and completed the purchase in time for the summer holidays.
London townhouse for a growing family
Clients with a principal country residence required a London home for their growing family. We advised on the most suitable central London locations and what their budget could reasonably secure. CB Williams Property identified and acquired an early 19th-century townhouse on a garden square in South Kensington, negotiating terms below the guide price.
London pied-à-terre for a regular commuter
A client based primarily in the countryside required a London base for three or four nights each week, with sufficient space for meetings and private entertaining. CB Williams Property conducted the rental search and secured an apartment in Albion Riverside with suitable living space, a river-facing balcony and views towards Chelsea.
“Charlie's expertise and personal approach proved to be invaluable. After several rounds of searching and viewings, we gained much more clarity on the areas and types of properties we were looking for. Charlie then went above and beyond, conducting deeper research and helping us prepare a strong, well-balanced offer. Charlie was there for us when we needed help the most, and we deeply appreciate his support. Thank you, Charlie!”
D & A
“We finally completed on the purchase of our new dream home thanks entirely to Charlie. We would not have got here without him. To describe him as 'a safe pair of hands' would be an understatement. He went above and beyond at every turn and was willing to help in any way he could. Cannot praise him highly enough. Having an agent of perpetual good humour whilst also being honest and warning us of the obstacles we needed to overcome was key in getting us through it.”
C & M