Case Study with Sarka Wilde of Distinct Properties

Case Study with Sarka Wilde of Distinct Properties

Distinct Properties, an esteemed estate agency based at the edge of North Cotswolds and North Oxfordshire, has revolutionised its operational efficiency and client service through a strategic partnership with Smart Compliance for anti-money laundering (AML) checks. Sarka Wilde, the founder of Distinct Properties, shares the significant changes and improvements brought about by this partnership in a discussion with our very own Sam Offley. 

Challenges Faced Before Smart Compliance 

Before integrating Smart Compliance, Distinct Properties encountered several issues that hindered its operations: 

Time Consumption: The AML process was painstakingly slow, requiring extensive time to gather and verify IDs and ensure adherence to HMRC regulations. 

Operational Inconveniences: Clients often had to physically visit the office for ID verification, causing delays in the sales process. 

Training and Data Security: Consistently training staff and securely storing data was a constant challenge. 

Reasons for Choosing Smart Compliance 

Sarka identified key reasons for opting for Smart Compliance: 

Efficiency: The AML checks are processed swiftly with Smart Compliance, significantly reducing delays in finalising sales. 

Compliance Updates: Smart Compliance keeps up to date with HMRC guidelines 

Financial Assurance: The Lifetime Membership provided by Smart Compliance may cover abortive fees if sales fall through, which is a frequent occurrence in the industry. 

Reduced Administration: The automation of AML checks removes a lot of the manual effort and time required, enhancing overall efficiency. 

Benefits Seen Since Using Smart Compliance 

Since the adoption of Smart Compliance, Distinct Properties has observed remarkable benefits: 

Streamlined Processes: The integration of Smart Compliance into their workflow has smoothed and expedited operations, saving about 30 to 60 minutes per sale. 

Enhanced Customer Experience: Clients appreciate the convenience of completing checks from home and the financial security against failed sales. 

Increased Commitment: Charging for AML checks has effectively filtered out non-serious buyers, boosting the quality and speed of transactions. 

Feedback and Recommendations 

Despite initial hesitations about charging for AML checks, client feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Sarka strongly recommends other estate agents to adopt Smart Compliance, highlighting its user-friendliness, risk-free trial, and efficient customer support. She notes, “It’s a no-brainer. The benefits, convenience, and efficiency it brings are unmatched.” 

The journey of Distinct Properties with Smart Compliance is a testament to how an end-to-end AML solution can transform operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and ensure compliance in Estate Agency. This partnership has resulted in faster sales, reduced administrative burdens, and increased peace of mind for both the agency and its clients. As Sarka emphasises, “Just try it; there’s no risk, and the advantages are clear. You will find it an incredibly easy and effective tool to use.”  

Watch the full Interview below