Owners, Cristina Axford (left) and Jo Lines (right) stand on stairs, smiling

New women-owned estate agency launches to connect investors with off-market properties

Kerryn Fields
Authored by Kerryn Fields
Posted: Friday, March 14, 2025 - 12:30

Search Homes, a specialised estate agency based in both Devon and Cornwall, has launched to provide property investors with access to lucrative, high-yielding off-market opportunities in residential and commercial real estate, with an approach that goes beyond traditional estate agencies.  

Search Homes, a part of Search Property Group founded in 2023 by award-winning property mentor, Jo Lines, and business partner, Cristina Axford, owner of Funky Media Agency, aims to build on the existing success of connecting property investors with off-market deals, primarily in Devon and Cornwall but with nationwide services, across a diverse portfolio of Serviced Accommodation portfolios, businesses for sale, hotels, Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), and Commercial premises for development. 

“We’re meeting the growing demand for investment-ready properties by connecting investors with exclusive opportunities,” says Lines. “Our extensive network and market expertise allow us to offer these sought-after deals to our client base before anyone else, along with a support package few others offer.” 

The Devon and Cornwall rental markets present strong investment potential, with Cornwall experiencing a 9% rise in average rents over the past year and Devon seeing a two-year high in property transactions in October 2024. 

“We’re seeing opportunities for new investors to buy properties from established investors looking to exit the market and with our guidance, they can build a solid foundation for future income,” Axford added. 

At the same time, Search Homes are also launching Search Property Network (SPN), offering monthly networking events in Cornwall, designed to provide local investors and property-related businesses with connections and collaboration opportunities within the sector. In addition, investors working with the agency will have access its own magazine, Search Property & Investment Magazine, as well as a free WhatsApp community for industry updates, recommendations, and informal networking. 

“We saw a significant gap in the local market for relaxed, high-end gatherings where like-minded property people can meet to discuss the industry, its trends and opportunities while building a strong community and opening doors,” continued Axford.  

“Providing a full range of value, opportunities to access off-market deals, support and community means our clients will have everything they need to build a profitable portfolio of investment properties in a more meaningful and connected way,” Lines finished. 

For more information or to book a consultation, visit: https://searchhomes.co.uk/ 

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