Our Story
Three Decades of Property Expertise Across Sussex
The Oakley Property story is one that all colleagues are proud of and showcases how doing business property prospers steady growth and successful, longstanding relationships.
From a small residential office in Hove to a full-service property consultancy operating across Sussex, our journey has been shaped by our people and their professionalism.
A Timeline of Oakley Property
What began as a small team has grown into a multi-disciplinary consultancy, supporting residential, commercial, new homes, land, and professional property services while remaining firmly rooted in local knowledge and long-term client trust.
Scroll to explore Oakley’s history...
Looking Ahead
Oakley launches its new branding and website, designed in tandem to better represent the full-service property consultancy that Oakley has grown into.
Strengthening Leadership
Louise Wilson and James Hamblyn were appointed Associate Directors, supporting Oakley's continued growth and succession planning.
Land & Development Becomes Standalone
Oakley formally established Land & Development as a standalone department, reflecting increased demand for specialist consultancy services.
Shoreham Expansion
Oakley's Shoreham team relocated to 6 Brunswick Road, following the acquisition of Osborn Humphreys and Harrison Brant's town centre office, strengthening Oakley's coastal presence.
A New Home for Oakley
Oakley moved into The Property Works, Foundry Street, bringing multiple departments together under one roof including lettings, commercial agency, management, accounts, valuations, and new homes. Andy Hovey was promoted to Residential Director. The Lewes Property Hub was refurbished, and the Waterfront development in Shoreham was launched. Atelier won Best Mixed-Use Development at the International Property Awards.
Investing in Growth
Oakley appointed its first dedicated marketing employee, reflecting continued investment in brand, communication, and client engagement.
Resilience Through Change
Like all businesses, Oakley faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Oakley was among the first back in the office and supported clients throughout the stamp duty holiday, reinforcing the strength and adaptability of the team. Despite the pandemic, we grew, welcoming Andy Hovey to our Residential Sales team.
Landmark New Homes Success
Oakley secured the prestigious Kings House, Hove seafront development: a landmark scheme of 169 apartments. Lewes also achieved its first Gold award at the British Property Awards.
Growth, Recognition & 25 Years
Shoreham Property Hub opened, led by Nick Williams. Residential Lettings relocated to Marlborough Place. Oakley opened its New Homes Lounge at 6 North Road and celebrated its 25th anniversary at Shoreham's Ropetackle. Lewes Property Hub received multiple business awards, including Professional Services and Business of the Year.
Leadership Expansion
David Beaken was appointed Director, strengthening Oakley's senior leadership team.
One Brand: Oakley Property
Oakley rebranded from Oakley Residential and Oakley Commercial to Oakley Property, uniting all services under one name. Offices were refurbished to reflect a single, cohesive brand identity.
A Year of Momentum
David Beaken joined the business. James Epps became President of the Brighton & Hove Estate Agents Association. Residential Lettings expanded into 6 North Road. Oakley delivered its first major New Homes development, comprising 147 apartments at Super B, Brighton. This year marked a turning point in Oakley's evolution into a broader property consultancy.
Whiteheads Lettings Acquired
Oakley acquired Whiteheads Lettings, strengthening its lettings capability and expanding its client base across Sussex.
Residential Lettings Launched
Oakley formally launched its Residential Lettings department, responding to increasing demand from landlords and investors for professional, compliant lettings services.
Lewes Office Opens
The opening of the Lewes Property Hub marked Oakley's expansion into town and country markets, supporting residential sales, lettings, and development across Lewes and the surrounding areas.
North Road Office Opens
Oakley opened its new Residential Sales office at 3 North Road, providing a more prominent presence in Brighton and supporting the continued growth of the residential team.
Industry Leadership
Chris Oakley was appointed President of the Brighton & Hove Estate Agents Association, reinforcing Oakley's growing reputation within the local property profession.
James Epps Joins Oakley
James Epps joined the business, marking the beginning of a long-standing leadership role that would help guide Oakley through significant periods of expansion and change.
Expanding Residential Sales
As demand grew, Oakley expanded its offering in the Sussex property market by introducing the Residential Sales department. This not only strengthened delivery but also laid the foundations for Oakley's future growth.
The Beginning
Oakley Property was founded in the early 1990s, originating as a team of two working from a small office on Portland Road in Hove. From the outset, the focus was clear: knowledgeable advice, personal service, and a commitment to professional standards.