NEWLY launched estate agent Newton and Co is aiming to get a competitive edge thanks to digital technology.

Sam Newton left Horwich firm Regency Estates to open the new outlet which bears his name in Tonge Moor Road, and he is aiming for the business to do much more than his rivals.

The 30-year-old father-of-two is promising to keep Newton and Co phone lines open from 8am to 8pm daily and is aiming to add on services free for which people usually pay extra.

He said: “There are facilities like photographs of floor plans available online, which are available from other estate agents, but at a cost.

“These are services which people should not have to pay extra for.

“Most people work 9am to 5pm so we will be offering to work round people’s busy schedules and give a 24-hour call back guarantee.

“For many people, estate agents talk the talk, but they don’t walk the walk. We are aiming to be different.”

A key element in the Newton business strategy is the link-up with digital marketing company Bring Digital, based at Bolton Arena.

The firm, run by managing director David Ingram, is handling the Newton and Co website and is co-ordinating its social media strategy and its search engine optimisation (SEO) — a major factor in the success of businesses in the 21st century.

“Bring Digital has a massive part to play in what we’re doing,” added Mr Newton.

“We have long-term plans to make this a national business.”