Top Recommended London Selling

‘Success breeds success, and reputation breeds success in this market,’ says Charles McDowell, the discreet agent who’s been operating in London’s super-prime market for more than two decades. He branched out from Russell Simpson to set up his boutique firm in 2002, focusing on homes and mansions in Chelsea, Kensington and Belgravia.

McDowell largely operates as an adviser to vendors, while also being active in buying advisory. He is valued for his discretion. ‘Some agents are inclined to tell people what they want to hear,’ he says. ‘We would pride ourselves on telling it as it is, and letting clients know when something is not the right fit.’