Knight Frank has introduced an affiliate estate agency model that allows self-employed agents to operate under its brand while maintaining independent businesses. The structure aims to expand the firm’s residential sales coverage beyond its current high street locations without establishing new physical offices.
Under the model, agents will work in defined geographical areas alongside existing Knight Frank offices. They will be responsible for securing property instructions, managing client relationships and developing their own business pipelines, whilst receiving operational and regulatory support from the company.
Commission structure and referral opportunities
Agents will earn commission on completed sales and may receive additional fees for referring clients to other services across Knight Frank’s residential and commercial divisions in the UK and internationally.
Tim Hyatt, head of residential at Knight Frank, said the approach would extend the firm’s reach into areas where demand for its services exists. He noted that self-employed brokers would have control over their diaries, clients and transactions.
Target markets identified
Knight Frank has identified 36 markets for potential expansion. Initial London areas include Ealing, Totteridge, Barnes and Putney, Brook Green and Shepherd’s Bush, and Crouch End and Muswell Hill. The firm’s Canary Wharf office will be repositioned as a City and East London hub covering Canary Wharf, Wapping, Shoreditch, Tower Bridge and Southbank.
The expansion comes as UK housing market activity faces headwinds from mortgage rate volatility. The affiliate model represents a lower-risk expansion strategy compared to opening new branches, as it shifts business development costs to individual agents.
Rory Penn, head of London Sales at Knight Frank, said the model would allow the firm to scale its sales business using its existing operating platform. Agents will receive marketing materials, technology and CRM systems, alongside brand and operational support.
The move follows broader changes in the property market, including recent adjustments to stamp duty thresholds affecting first-time buyers. The affiliate structure may appeal to agents seeking independence whilst benefiting from an established brand’s infrastructure and network reach.
