Ayers & Cruiks

Ayers & Cruiks, estate agents in Southend-on-Sea

Ayers & Cruiks is an estate agency based in Southend-on-Sea (Essex, United Kingdom) that has been operating since 1997. The firm presents itself as one of the largest estate agencies in the region and has teams specialising in the residential and commercial sectors. In 2023 the company became employee-owned through an Employee Ownership Trust, a structure the company describes as a successful first year, with increased turnover, business growth and a fully engaged team.

The company is led by Steve Ayers and Darrell Clarke. Kevin Cruiks, one of the founding partners, stepped down as Director after 29 years, although he remains involved as a consultant to ensure continuity. The company has strengthened its accounts department with new recruits and has expanded its residential lettings and property management activity; its Chelmsford office has moved to larger premises.

Residential and commercial property services

Ayers & Cruiks' activity covers the sale and letting of residential properties, the management of residential and commercial properties, commercial lettings and professional valuation services. The agency serves both buyers and sellers as well as landlords and tenants, and offers access to new-build developments.

Among the featured developments shown on the website are Bonchurch Lofts, new-build apartments in Leigh-on-Sea; new apartment developments in Castle Point; Northfield House, apartments to rent in Southend; and Baryta House, also for rent in Southend. The company states that it has exclusive access to new-build properties and an extensive investor database.

Property management and professional services

The management area handles residential and commercial properties, with dedicated block management and commercial management departments. For owners who only want letting services, the firm offers a let-only package. Professional services include valuations, rent reviews and lease renewals, provided by a team of chartered surveyors.

The agency also makes it easy for tenants to report issues through the Fixflo system and publishes instructions for out-of-hours emergencies, such as gas leaks, power cuts, lack of water, water leaks, being locked out of the property or burglaries.

Awards and presence in Essex

Ayers & Cruiks presents itself as an award-winning commercial agent and claims to have been voted the most active agent in Essex by EGi for nine consecutive years. The company states that its directors have more than 65 years of combined experience and describes itself as fully independent. Its area of operation focuses on Essex, with particular attention to Southend-on-Sea and towns such as Leigh-on-Sea, Castle Point, Westcliff-on-Sea and Billericay, as well as an office in Chelmsford.

Tools for owners and tenants

The agency's website offers guides for landlords, tenants, buyers and sellers, as well as listings of properties for sale and to rent, free valuation services and a blog with advice. It also has a mobile app for iOS and Android, and a direct debit payment system for tenants.