About Webbers

1924

When John sold Rabbits and bicycles

John C Webber started the ball rolling in 1924 in his front room at Newport Road, Barnstaple. Quietly, he began to make his name in the town and among the local farming community as a market auctioneer. 

He was as happy selling rabbits and bicycles as he was beef, sheep and pigs... it all contributed to his commission fees which in the first year amassed to £110.4s; just over £2 a week gross. 

1931

Foundation stones

John was only 54 when he died in 1931, but had laid the foundation stones for his son, Charles, to undertake a cautious expansion. He moved into Barnstaple's comparatively bustling Boutport Street, the proud proprietor of a tiny office with no-one but himself to occupy it. 

1938

A pupil back from the war arrives 

The situation didn't change until 1938, when an articled pupil just off his sixteenth birthday arrived. The pupil, named Vivian Moon was back from the war before the staff was increased any further. Gwen Lock, aged 14 and just out of school, then joined as an office girl. 

1950

A proud partnership 

Charles and Vivian were partners by 1950, and "John C Webber and Son" almost immediately launched into the business of residential property. The one room office became a three-room suite. 

1960s

A Decade of Establishment and Expansion

In the early years, Webbers laid the foundation for its legacy. The 1960s witnessed the inauguration of the Braunton office in 1961, a symbol of the company's commitment to growth. 

1963

Mr Moon becomes sole proprietor 

Mr. Moon became sole proprietor in 1963, on the retirement of Charles, and it was then that a major quarters was established at the new Bristol and West House, on the Boutport Street-Queen Street corner.

1969

Our Chairman's Journey from the College of Estate Management to Webbers

In May 1969, our now chairman, Graham Harrison left the College of Estate Management and joined Webbers on June 2nd at the age of 20. This pivotal step in his career followed his success in the only job interview he'd had ever undergone.

1970s

Significant expansion

As the '70s unfolded, the Bideford and Ilfracombe offices commenced operations, further solidifying Webbers' presence. By 1971, the Lynton office joined the network, and over the next few years, South Molton and Bude offices opened their doors, marking a period of significant expansion.

1974

Equity Partner and RICS Achievements

Graham Harrison becomes an equity partner at Webbers, our chairman thrived under the mentorship of John Spain, progressing in his career and attaining RICS qualifications. The small 30-employee firm embraced a "work hard, play hard" culture which we very much still see today. 

1987

Acquired by Bristol and West Building Society

In 1987, Webbers experienced a pivotal moment as it was acquired by the Bristol and West Building Society, a trusted and collaborative business associate. Under the leadership of Chairman Vivian Moon, the role of Managing Director was assumed by our current chairman, accompanied by Chris Grimshaw, the Commercial expert, as the third director. Dulverton office became an integral part of the network, contributing to the company's ever-expanding footprint.

1994

Webbers is repurchased and returned to private ownership 

In the initial years, everything thrived for the company, but changes in Bristol and West leadership presented challenges. The retirement of Vivian Moon marked a pivotal moment. After a 7-year collaboration, an opportunity for Graham Harrison to repurchase Webbers arose in 1994. As a cohesive team, they successfully revitalised the Webbers brand with 10 offices. Despite the separation of the commercial business, the strategic addition of new directors like Peter McHugh, Ray Saunders, and John Spain within the first 6 months injected new energy. Vivian Moon returned as Chairman, overcoming initial obstacles. With resilience, the team expanded the business once again, introducing additional directors, including now Managing Director, Malcolm Prescott. This journey reflects the company's commitment to growth and positive transformation.

1995

Webbers opens new office in Mayfair 

In October 1995, Webbers opened new premises in Mayfair London to add to their well established chain of offices. "We see this as a natural move in developing even stronger links within the national and international property market," said Graham Harrison.  

Late 1990s

A Decade of Diversification

The 1990s ushered in a new era of diversification for Webbers. In the late '90s, Webbers expanded its presence with the opening of the Wellington, Taunton and Wiveliscombe offices. These additions not only bolstered the company's local connections but also showcased its commitment to serving a diverse range of communities.

2000

Webbers meet national standard for effective Investment in People 

Webber's Estate Agents was proudly recognised for meeting the national standard for effective investment in people. This acknowledgment affirmed the company's dedication to cultivating a skilled and committed workforce, showcasing excellence in the property industry. The turn of the millennium marked another chapter of growth for Webbers. In 2000, the Bodmin and Bampton offices began operations, contributing to the company's dynamic portfolio. The early 2000s also saw the addition of the Newquay office, reaching a milestone of 14 offices by 2006.

2015

Customer Care opens setting a precedent in local markets

Webbers opens Customer Care, a dedicated team, exemplifies the commitment to client service, with extended office hours from 8 AM to 8 PM, setting a precedent in our local markets. 

2016

Webbers Secures Coveted Title of Estate Agent of the Year at Prestigious Guild Awards

Webbers secured the esteemed title of Estate Agent of the Year at the Guild of Professional Agents awards. Praised by then Guild CEO Marcus Whewell for embodying the pinnacle of independent estate agency, Webbers received unanimous acclaim for consistently delivering exceptional service through innovation and strong core values. 

2024

Webbers, the estate agency Pace Makers

As Webbers enters its centenary year, current Chairman Graham Harrison ensures continuity and active involvement in the business. The agency's focus remains on being the very best in the towns it serves, emphasising customer confidence and trust. With 14 offices across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset the company continue to be the "Pacemakers" in the industry.