A multiple award-winning estate agents has been named best in the country for the second consecutive year.

Romans won high praise at the Sunday Times Estate Agency of the Year awards and became the only firm to win the top title twice.

Judges said other agencies could “learn so much about professionalism and all-round excellence” from the locally-based business.

Romans picked up another four gold trophies on the night, including best training and development, best marketing, best medium agency and best medium South East.

Vincent Courtney, managing director for residential sales, said: “Winning this award in 2011 was already a great honour, but being the first to win it twice in a row is truly an exceptional achievement which will drive us to maintain our high standards going forward.

“This award is a testament to the ability, enthusiasm and hard work of our staff at every branch who now have proof of their excellence on a national scale.”

Success at the awards ceremony at the Lancaster London Hotel in December was the result of a rigorous judging process carried out by a panel of industry experts, overseen by property ombudsman Christopher Hamer.

The judges’ report said: “Romans remains a force to be reckoned with in 2012 after a blindingly successful 2011.

“Celebrating its 25th year in business, the team should be absolutely delighted and proud of their achievements which have culminated in Romans being the first agency in the history of these awards to win estate agency of the year twice and on two consecutive years.”

The agency was praised for its investment in staff with every new employee receiving four days’ training at the beginning of their time with the agency, regardless of previous experience.

The company also reviewed its package of benefits and working conditions during the year, which led to improvements in the commission structure, working hours and shift patterns.

Judges said: “Motivated, contented staff results in satisfied, loyal customers and it is clear that Romans’ drive to improve its working environments and culture has achieved fantastic outcomes for the clients and the business.”

They concluded: “They are relentless in backing up words with action and without exception the entire team demonstrated hands-on dedication to both the organisation and the customers.”

Romans opened its first office in Bracknell in 1987 and now has 18 branches across Berkshire, North Hampshire and Surrey with its largest and busiest in Market Place, Reading town centre.

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