Two friends who both took redundancy after decades with the same insurance company are now homing in on a new business.

Simon Norton-Lane, of Mansfield Woodhouse, has teamed up with Craig Parrott, of Mansfield, to launch the estate agency Open House Mansfield, dubbed local agent with internet prices.

Both have extensive experience in business, sales and customer care, having worked in various leadership roles throughout their 30-year careers.

Simon said: “I enjoyed my job, but I see being made redundant as an opportunity to go into business. I love talking to people and delivering excellent customer service and attention to detail, and I’m interested in property, so this seemed like the ideal move.”

Craig added: “My background is similar to Simon’s and I know we can work well together in this new, exciting venture. We have a solid, long-term business plan with challenging targets, but I am confident that we can exceed them.”

Open House Mansfield, based in Mansfield Woodhouse, is part of the national network of Open House estate agents, which offers a local, individual service that utilises web-based technology.

That means Open House estate agents have fewer overheads than high street estate agents and can offer lower commission rates.

Simon and Craig will initially focus on selling properties in the NG17, NG18, NG19 and NG21 postcode areas, which include the towns and villages of Sutton, Kirkby, Skegby, Stanton Hill, Mansfield, Mansfield Woodhouse, Forest Town, Rainworth, Edwinstowe, Clipstone and Blidworth.

Open House Mansfield can also place properties on leading online property sites, such as Rightmove, Zoopla and Primelocation.

Craig said: “The Mansfield and Ashfield areas have a busy property market, with something for everyone. There are a number of estate agents locally, but we believe we can compete on price and on customer service levels.”

Craig and Simon will also act for landlords, offering a full lettings service, and a find a tenant service.

Email [email protected] or call 01623 700393 for more details.