Born into one of Denton’s most well-known Italian families, Franca Carbone was born and bred in east Manchester and is now overseeing the launch of Philip James’ newest branch,Philip James Denton. We meet Franca for a cup of coffee and ask her about her newest project
Why have Philip James launched in Denton?
We’ve been expanding rapidly over the last few years; we’ve got central and south Manchester covered and now we’re looking at east Manchester. We had successful launches in Reddish and Edgeley and because Denton has a quality Victorian housing stock, it seemed the obvious next place to launch
How did you get on board?
I’d been working in a leading Manchester city centre estate agent for years and I’ve known the team at Philip James for a long time. They knew I lived in Denton so when they were planning their next launch I got “the call” – it’s very exciting to head up a new branch
How well do you know Denton?
Even though I grew up here there were streets I didn’t know – so I set out on a fact-finding mission by personally delivering leaflets to over 10,000 houses. I wore out two pairs of my best shoes but it was worth it; there’s not a single street in Denton I haven’t walked down. When I’m asked to value a house I already know the street, so I can provide a more accurate assessment than my competitors
How is Philip James Denton different?
When we first researched the Denton market we noticed how old-fashioned many of the High Street agents were; vendors would have their property valued by one person and be offered advice by someone else. And when their house was shown to potential buyers it would be someone different again. So we decided to revolutionise house-selling in Denton by ensuring every seller has one point of contact, someone who knows your house inside and out. It’s like having an old-style Bank manager – when you instruct Philip James to sell your house you’ll always deal with the same person
Do you have good connections in Denton?
Many of my siblings have businesses in Denton so I know a lot of people. I also inherited Philip James buyers’ database, which is one of the largest in Greater Manchester. It makes my job a lot easier because when I put a house on the market I’m more likely to know somebody who’ll want to buy it. Then I can match the two people up and the sales process is much quicker
How do you promote Philip James in Denton?
We advertise our properties everywhere, from the Tameside Advertiser to Rightmove, Find a Property, Zoopla and Prime Location. Plus, I’m always out and about in Denton and good at promoting myself – so if you see me, say hello!
FRANCA’S SECRET DENTON
The Fletchers Arms I spent many a night at the Fletchers in my younger years (I’m showing my age!) but now it’s a great Sunday afternoon venue and does the best Carvery in Denton
The Grey Duck This is a newcomer to the Denton scene; a much longed-for tea room/cafe in Danebank. It serves Illy coffees (which of course is every Italians favorite cuppa!) and watch out for the Mixed Meze – it’s delicious
Georgie Porgies Nursery My daughter has attended this nursery full- time since she was 10 months old and I;d happily recommend it to anyone. She’s progressed brilliantly and at the age of three practices Yoga and Spanish- I’m very impressed!
The Premier Lounge, Corporation Road I’ve spent many a night out here since it’s been under new management. They have tribute band nights and comedy evenings, as well as Christenings and wedding parties. I had my wedding reception at the Premier Lounge a few years ago and I can highly recommend it
