Redwing's Partnership with Gecko, Part of Southway Homes Trust: Streamlining Shared Ownership Resales. | News

In March 2024, Redwing partnered with Gecko, part of Southway Homes Trust, to manage their shared ownership resales portfolio. The partnership came about at a crucial time for Gecko, as they were facing significant challenges in handling their growing resales while also focusing on new-build developments. By working with Redwing, Gecko’s resales portfolio process would be streamlined with an outstanding customer service.  

We sat down with Tom, Senior Sales Consultant at Gecko, to discuss how working with Redwing has transformed their shared ownership resales process!

What challenges were you facing before you partnered with Redwing?

"We had a lot of resales coming through, particularly shared ownership, however our focus was on our busy pipeline of new build developments. Our priority has always been delivering excellent service to our customers, but the increase in resales meant we needed help. We also wanted to ensure we kept within the 28-day nomination period, which requires us to act fast once a customer informs us they’re selling.”

“We didn’t have the budget for marketing platforms like Rightmove, which slowed down the sales process. We received a high level of calls from customers, but with limited estate agency resources, we couldn’t provide the level of support we wanted to. We knew that to keep meeting the 28-day nomination requirement, we had to find a partner who understood shared ownership and could act quickly on our behalf."

Why did you choose to partner with Redwing?

"Redwing’s knowledge and experience stood out to us. They’ve been specialising in shared ownership for over 60 years and their expertise gave us complete confidence. Shared ownership can be complex, but Redwing’s focus on nomination periods and commitment to retaining affordable homes within the market was a big factor in our decision."

"Their offer was attractive, not only because it doesn’t cost us anything, but also because they provide our customers with discounted fees, which adds real value. Unlike previous estate agents, who lacked understanding of shared ownership and caused unnecessary issues for our customers, Redwing made it seamless. Plus, as a not-for-profit organisation, their values align closely with ours at Southway Homes, which made them a natural fit."

What are the benefits of working with Redwing?

"From the start, Redwing took control of all communications with both sellers and buyers. Their process is streamlined and efficient. There’s no unnecessary back and forth – they just get the job done. We’ve been able to focus on our new developments while still providing a top-quality service to our customers. Redwing's team is knowledgeable and proactive, making the whole process simple and stress-free for everyone involved."

Tell us about the success!

"We’ve already seen amazing success. We recently completed our first sale within this partnership in September, just months after we started working with Redwing. Both the seller and buyer had outstanding feedback and described the process as a breeze. What’s been most noticeable for us is the reduction in calls from resales customers – Redwing has taken over the communication entirely, keeping the process smooth and transparent."

"Redwing also managed to secure buyers quickly, which has helped us meet the 28-day nomination period consistently. They’re efficient, and their understanding of shared ownership really sets them apart."

What would you say to other housing associations or registered providers considering Redwing’s services?

"For any housing associations or registered providers struggling to keep up with their shared ownership resale portfolio, or who want to maintain affordable housing within the market, partnering with Redwing is the answer. They save time and money for both us and our customers, all while delivering an outstanding service. If affordability and efficiency are your goals, Redwing makes it possible."

This partnership between Redwing and Gecko demonstrates how by housing associations, registered providers and specialists such as Redwing working together, shared ownership homes can be retained within the market – which is crucial as demand for affordable housing continues to grow.

By outsourcing to Redwing, housing associations and registered providers can free up internal resources, while ensuring that customers continue to receive high-quality, streamlined and cost-effective service.

If you are thinking about partnering with Redwing, speak to our friendly team on partners@redwing.co.uk to get started.