Symon Donovan Properties has been established for more than 25 years. Symon Donovan, former Sheffield City College student and founder, believed he could improve the quality of accommodation for Sheffield students and embarked on doing so.
Fast forward to 2019, the company has won numerous awards at the Sheffield Landlord Awards last month – an annual ceremony organised by Sheffield city council. “It was a great evening,” SDP’s Property Manager Oliver Robinson told us. “It was good to mingle with other landlords and their teams. I think the awards night is a great idea, it’s very encouraging knowing that the council want to showcase and support the good landlords that Sheffield has to offer. The event also raised money for charity, so that’s a bonus!”
Oliver was the recipient of a Special Recognition Award, with SDP sweeping up the Outstanding Customer Service Prize and Snug Landlord of the Year award. “Snug is an accreditation scheme by Sheffield council and both the universities. To be Snug accredited, a property must meet certain standards and the landlord must pass certain checks. It isn’t just about it being safe, it’s about providing high quality homes that students are gong to enjoy and be comfortable living in.”
So is that the criteria for which SDP prides itself? “Absolutely, and making sure tenants receive a great service too. It was so lovely reading through some of the nominations we had recieved from tenants in the lead up to the awards night. It’s really reassuring to know so many have had such positive experiences with renting with us.”
What sets SDP apart from other landlords in the area? “What I think sets us apart is our combination of traditional shared houses and modern apartments in blocks that we’ve converted from disused but attractive buildings such as former factories and pubs. Whilst the traditional shared houses are still popular, it’s great to be able to offer unique apartments in interesting buildings. Not many students can say they live in a former army barracks or cutlery factory! Symon has a real passion for giving old, derelict buildings a new lease of life by converting them into great student homes.”
