That’s why our recent conversation with Carrie Alliston, now Head of Partnerships at HomeLet (Barbon Insurance Group), resonated so strongly. With a career that’s spanned local branch roles to national strategy, Carrie brings a rare blend of operational depth, regulatory insight, and leadership clarity to the table.
And her message to the sector is clear: If we want a more respected, professional and profitable PRS - we have to lead it there.
Compliance Isn’t Optional - It’s Opportunity
In a market where reform is constant and public trust is fragile, Carrie makes a compelling case for seeing regulation not as red tape, but as a competitive edge.
Agents who understand - and embrace - compliance aren’t just staying out of trouble. They’re building trust. They’re attracting better landlords. They’re operating at a higher standard.
At base property, this is how we’ve always approached compliance: not as the minimum standard, but as a foundational strength. We advise, we educate, and we act early - not react late.
Investing in People Means Investing in Performance
Carrie spoke candidly about the risks of being “too busy to be better.” It’s a trap many agencies fall into - racing to meet demand, while deferring training, culture-building, and leadership development.
But the truth is, the agents who survive the next wave of change will be those who make intentional time to grow their people. To review their practices. To adapt.
At base, we’ve seen first-hand how investing in our team leads to better outcomes: lower turnover, stronger landlord relationships, and higher tenant satisfaction.
Why Respect - For All Parties - Must Be Central
Carrie’s comments on tone and communication really hit home. In an industry where pressure is high and empathy is often in short supply, she calls for a return to respect - for tenants, landlords, and for one another.
That mirrors our own ethos at base. We treat everyone with professionalism and transparency. We don’t play games. And we don’t tolerate ego-driven service. Because at the end of the day, letting agents are custodians of homes - and of relationships.
What This Means for Landlords & Investors
For our clients - especially London-based landlords, NRLs (Non Resident Landlords), and BTR/PBSA (Build To Rent & Purpose Built Student Accommodation) operators - this conversation has real implications.
You should be working with agents who:
• Stay ahead of legislative change
• Communicate clearly and proactively
• Understand risk and manage it properly
• Represent your brand with integrity
Carrie’s career exemplifies the kind of agency thinking that drives long-term asset performance, not just monthly rent collection. And that’s exactly what we offer at base.
Final Thoughts: Better Agents = Better Outcomes
As Carrie reminded us, the sector isn’t going to transform itself. It needs leaders. It needs clarity. And it needs agents who take pride in doing things properly.
At base, we’re proud to count ourselves among that group. Because we’re not just here to manage property - we’re here to elevate the standards of the sector we love.
Thanks to voices like Carrie’s, that future is getting closer.
And we’re ready to lead the way.
