Orchard launches real estate firm
A Bermudian businessman is aiming to offer that little bit extra after realising a niche in the professional property services market with the launch of his new real estate company.Mark Orchard yesterday announced the launch of Mark Orchard Real Estate Ltd, or MORE as it is more commonly known by its acronym, which will cater to both the commercial and residential segments of the market.The firm will focus on everything from sales and leasing services, valuations and appraisals and commercial tenant-representation services to project and property management, and surveying and planning advisory services.Mr Orchard said that he had always wanted to have his own company and believes that the market has bottomed out, so it was the perfect time to start out.“I think Bermuda is a wonderful place, it’s a resilient place and we have had many cycles through the years and I think this is one of these cycles and it’s at the bottom and can only go upwards,” he said.Mr Orchard, who is based in Paget, will be looking to tap into his extensive list of contacts in the local, international business and overseas community and be in a position to grow and take on new staff as the business expands.“Having played an active role in the Bermuda property development market since 1997 I have experienced firsthand how to address the needs of the Island’s affluent homeowners and demanding business professionals,” he said.“MORE will leverage these experiences and differentiate itself by providing personalised solutions to commercial and residential clients. No two businesses are the same, no two homes are the same and no two solutions are the same. Working closely with my clients I work hard to understand their unique real estate needs and translate that into viable solutions that can be implemented in a realistic and affordable manner.”Mr Orchard said that the current soft market, particularly in Hamilton, has created a unique set of conditions for office tenants and landlords alike as businesses focused on managing their real estate costs and building owners fought to maintain their occupancy levels.“Whether negotiating leases, analysing operating costs, working with Government officials or preparing Board level presentations, MORE’s commercial advisory services allow landlords and tenants to optimise their real estate occupancy exposure,” he said.Of the residential side, he said: “Many homeowners have invested large sums of money in their Island homes and, as they do with any multi-million dollar investment, these homeowners demand professional management of their property assets. They require someone they trust to ensure that their home is maintained and their investment protected, and they want regular and detailed communication. MORE understands these client needs and works closely with homeowners to make their Island lifestyle a comfortable and hassle-free experience.”Mr Orchard is a Registered Valuation Surveyor and qualified as a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in 1989. He worked in New York City for 10 years with international real estate firms Douglas Elliman Commercial, Knight Frank & Rutley and Ernst & Young LLP in their global real estate consulting practice advising banks, developers, and investors on single asset and property portfolio matters.Having returned to Bermuda in 1997, Mr Orchard took on the role of vice-president of commercial development at the Bermuda Land Development Company and was most recently senior vice-president at Tucker’s Point Club - a role which he believes will help him service the hospitality industry through market due diligence and consultancy.For more information about Mark Orchard Real Estate Ltd contact 524-6905, email mark[AT]MORE.bm or visit the website at www.MORE.bm