Business Details
20 Years
experience
Expert Property Letting in Banbury
Stepping Stones is a property letting and management company founded on the principles of personal service, professionalism, and dedication to the lettings industry. With over 35 years of combined experience from our founders Ben and Ali Jones, we specialise in providing expert property management solutions tailored to landlords and tenants across Banbury and surrounding areas. Our team of qualified professionals prioritises transparency, offering fixed commission rates with no hidden fees, ensuring clients receive exceptional value and service consistency.As members of The Property Ombudsman, Propertymark, and ARLA, we adhere to strict regulatory standards, maintaining client money protection and industry best practices. Our local market expertise, supported by a dedicated accounts team and experienced property managers, ensures properties are let swiftly to reliable tenants while safeguarding landlord investments. We pride ourselves on being a family-run business that combines flexibility with award-winning service, managing over 500 properties annually through our Banbury-based office.
Services
Property Management
Tenant Finding
Rent Collection
Buy-to-Let Advice
Overseas Landlord Services
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years of combined experience in property lettings.
- Our transparent pricing includes fixed commission rates with no hidden fees.
- Dedicated property managers oversee every aspect of your investment.
- We are ARLA and Propertymark accredited for industry-standard compliance.
- Award-winning service with the largest local rental portfolio in the area.
Associations and certifications
- The Property Ombudsman
- Propertymark
- ARLA
- NALS
Services
Property Management
Our full property management service covers every aspect of landlord responsibilities, from tenant vetting to maintenance coordination. We ensure compliance with safety regulations, handle rent collection, and provide regular property inspections. With dedicated managers overseeing your investment, we guarantee proactive communication and swift resolution of issues to protect your asset.
Tenant Finding
We specialise in sourcing reliable tenants through targeted marketing and rigorous referencing. Our process includes professional property listings, accompanied viewings, and credit/history checks to match properties with suitable occupants. This service ensures minimal void periods while maintaining high tenant retention standards for landlords.
Rent Collection
Our rent collection service guarantees timely payments through automated systems and arrears management. We handle invoicing, payment tracking, and late payment follow-ups while maintaining transparent financial records. This service provides landlords with financial security and reduces administrative burdens associated with income management.
Buy-to-Let Advice
We offer tailored buy-to-let advice covering market analysis, property selection, and financial planning. Our experts provide insights into rental yield projections, legal obligations, and tax implications. This service supports investors in making informed decisions to build and manage profitable property portfolios effectively.
Overseas Landlord Services
Designed for overseas property owners, this service includes full compliance management, local authority liaison, and remote communication support. We handle all aspects of UK property management, ensuring adherence to tax laws and tenant regulations while providing regular updates to absentee landlords.
People
Ben Jones
Owner
With over 35 years in property lettings, Ben co-founded Stepping Stones in 2006. His local market expertise and customer-focused ethos have driven the company's growth into a leading regional agency.
Ali Jones
Owner
Ali co-founded Stepping Stones alongside Ben in 2006. Her industry knowledge and commitment to personal service have established a loyal client base through repeat business and referrals.
Ruth Neczaj
Accounts
Ruth has managed financial operations at Stepping Stones for 20 years. Her expertise in property legislation and compliance ensures accurate accounting practices and regulatory adherence across the portfolio.
Lauren Rand
Office Manager
Joining in 2015, Lauren progressed from trainee to Office Manager. She oversees daily operations, staff development, and service quality assurance, maintaining the company's high standards through effective team leadership.
Sam Holden
Senior Property Manager
Sam joined Stepping Stones in 2020, rapidly advancing to senior role after completing NFOPP Level 3 qualifications. He manages landlord-tenant relationships and property maintenance, combining technical expertise with client-focused problem-solving.
Questions
What services do you offer for landlords?
We provide full property management, rent collection, tenant finding, buy-to-let advice, and overseas landlord services with transparent pricing.
How do you ensure tenant quality?
We conduct thorough credit checks, employment verification, and previous landlord references to ensure reliable tenant placements.
Are your fees fixed or variable?
Our fees are fixed with no hidden charges. We maintain consistent pricing without post-contract increases.
How quickly do you typically let properties?
We achieve faster lettings than local competitors, with most properties rented within 28 days of listing.
What accreditations do you hold?
We are members of The Property Ombudsman, Propertymark, and ARLA, ensuring regulatory compliance and professional standards.
Can overseas landlords use your services?
Yes, we offer tailored management solutions for international property owners, including remote communication and compliance support.
