A NEW concept in the buying and selling of homes is coming to Bury.

And in a radical departure from the conventional methods of estate agency business, Ownhome is poised to rapidly change the face of house moving.

The company is expanding its operations to Bury and elsewhere in North Manchester.

In a break with tradition, Ownhome doesn't have any offices in the high street.

But the company is changing the industry by offering local experts, a customer contact centre as well as an interactive web site, a low cost direct conveyancing service and guaranteed seller surveys. s Kathryn Hogdson, Ownhome assistant regional manager, said: "This is a non-traditional and new concept in direct selling. It is the way forward."

Ownhome say that because they don't have a network of estate agencies, lower overheads will mean competitive fees for customers.

Ownhome has recruited a team of seven locally. Five property consultants will carry out market appraisals, valuation, and two property advisers will accompany customers on house viewings.

Move managers at Ownhome's contact centre will keep customers fully advised of all developments during the period between acceptance of an offer and completion.

Despite the fact Ownhome may lack the public profile afforded by other estate agents with a high street presence, Kathryn is confident of building a significant client base in the Bury area.

"Customer service is the key. We have longer opening hours seven days a week and we will be much more accessible."

Widespread newspaper advertising in and around the borough will act as a key marketing tool for the company.

Ownhome, which was launched in South Manchester and Cheshire last year, is backed by Liverpool Victoria Friendly Society and Accenture, formerly Anderden Consulting.

Regional manager Mr Andrew Williams said: "With more than 3,000 potential sellers and buyers from our Manchester and Cheshire pilot area already on our books, we know that our radically different style of estate agency not only works but is welcomed."