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Meet our partner agent in Shaftesbury & Sturminster Newton
Meet Brad & Tamsin Hansford: The heart of Shaftesbury's premier estate agency
Welcome to our little corner of the world here in Shaftesbury, Dorset! We are Brad and Tamsin Hansford, and we are not just the proud owners of Meyers Estates Shaftesbury and Sturminster Newton, but also your neighbours. Having lived here for years with our two children and our cheeky beagle, Mollie, we understand exactly what makes this area so special. As residents, we are deeply committed to providing a warm, friendly, and personalised service to everyone.
We are proud to run this agency as a family business, and while we are part of a national franchise, we are anything but corporate. When you work with us, you are working with people who genuinely care. We know the area, we know the market, and, most importantly, we know how important your home is to you.
Brad Hansford: The local expert you can trust:
With over 12 years of experience in the estate agency industry, Brad is the friendly face of the business. His passion for the property market is only matched by his love for Shaftesbury, Sturminster Newton and its surrounding areas. Having worked in the local market for over a decade, Brad is uniquely placed to offer expert advice and insights into the area's properties, from quaint cottages in the local town centres to sprawling countryside estates.
Before establishing the agency with Tamsin, Brad worked with several renowned agencies in the region, gaining a wealth of experience. His ability to listen and understand his clients' needs has made him a trusted figure in the community. Whether you are buying, selling, or simply looking for advice, Brad’s depth of local knowledge ensures that you will always receive the most accurate and up-to-date information about the property market in the area.
For Brad, estate agency is not just about transactions; it’s about relationships. He takes pride in guiding each client through the process, ensuring that they feel informed, supported, and confident every step of the way. His focus on building long-lasting relationships means that many of his clients return to him again and again, and he’s built a reputation as a trustworthy and reliable professional who genuinely cares.
Tamsin might not always be the first person you meet, but she is an integral part of the team. With a background in law, Tamsin’s expertise ensures that the legal side of your property transaction runs as smoothly as possible. Having worked as a legal professional in various sectors before joining Brad in the estate agency business, Tamsin brings a unique perspective to the table. Her attention to detail, ability to anticipate challenges, and calm, methodical approach make her an invaluable asset to the business.
Beyond her legal background, Tamsin is deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the business, helping to ensure that we provide a seamless experience for every client.
Our family-run agency: Personal, professional, and local.
At the heart of our estate agency is a simple belief: that every client deserves personal attention and a service tailored to their specific needs. We do not just see you as a transaction; we see you as part of our community.
Whether you are moving into the area or moving on to your next chapter, we understand the emotions that come with buying or selling a home. That is why we are here to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, and a team of professionals who are dedicated to making your property journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Our mission is to combine the best of both worlds: the professionalism and expertise of a large agency, with the friendly, approachable service of a small, family-run business. We understand that your property journey is about more than just bricks and mortar – it is about your future, your family, and your dreams. And that’s something we take seriously.
Life in the area:
Why We Love Living Here For those of you who are new to North Dorset, let us tell you a little bit about why we are so proud to call this charming town of Shaftesbury our home. Nestled in the heart of Dorset, the town effortlessly blends history, character, and community spirit. Known for its iconic Gold Hill (made famous by the Hovis bread advert), the town offers breath-taking views, picturesque streets, and a thriving local culture.
For us, the appeal of this part of the country is more than just its beauty; it is the real sense of community. Whether you are moving here for the first time or are a long-time local looking for a change, we are here to help you find the perfect property that fits your needs.
Why choose us?
Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or rent in Shaftesbury or the surrounding areas, we’re here to help you make your next move with confidence. With over 12 years of experience in the estate agency business and a genuine passion for our local community, we are proud to offer a service that is both professional and personal. We know that every property transaction is unique, and we are committed to guiding you through the process with care, expertise, and a friendly smile.
Get in touch today, and let’s make your property journey a success!

What is Shaftesbury like?
Shaftesbury, Dorset: A historic hilltop town with timeless charm.
Shaftesbury, one of Dorset’s most picturesque market towns, is famous for its stunning countryside views, historic streets, and strong community spirit. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Blackmore Vale, Shaftesbury offers a blend of rural beauty, heritage, and modern convenience, making it a sought-after location for families, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life.
Why Shaftesbury?
Shaftesbury is best known for Gold Hill, the iconic steep cobbled street featured in the famous Hovis advert, offering breathtaking views of the Dorset countryside. The town boasts a charming high street, lined with independent shops, cafés, and traditional pubs, as well as regular markets and cultural events. Other highlights include:
Shaftesbury Abbey ruins & gardens, steeped in medieval history.
Park Walk, a scenic promenade with panoramic countryside views.
Excellent countryside walking trails, perfect for outdoor lovers.
A strong arts and community scene, with galleries, festivals, and local events.
With its excellent schools, friendly atmosphere, and easy access to nature, Shaftesbury is a great place for those seeking a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle.
Transport & connectivity
Despite its rural feel, Shaftesbury enjoys good transport links, making it a viable option for commuters:
Gillingham railway station (10 minutes away) offers direct trains to London Waterloo in under 2 hours.
The A30 and A350 provide road links to Salisbury, Bath, and the South West.
Bournemouth and Bristol airports are both within an hour’s drive for domestic and international travel.
Property Market in Shaftesbury
Shaftesbury’s property market offers a range of character homes, modern developments, and countryside retreats.
Period cottages on Gold Hill and nearby streets typically range from £400,000 to £700,000.
Larger detached homes with gardens in areas like Motcombe and Cann start from £500,000.
New-build developments and modern townhouses provide options for younger buyers, starting around £350,000.
Country estates and farmhouses in the surrounding area can exceed £1 million.
Why live in Shaftesbury?
With its stunning views, historic charm, vibrant community, and excellent access to countryside walks, Shaftesbury offers a peaceful yet well-connected lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a character cottage, a spacious family home, or a countryside retreat, Shaftesbury provides timeless appeal and long-term value.

What is Sturminster Newton like?
Sturminster Newton, Dorset: A riverside market town with rural charm.
Sturminster Newton, a picturesque town in North Dorset, is known for its riverside setting, historic market heritage, and strong community spirit. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Blackmore Vale, this charming town offers a peaceful countryside lifestyle with essential modern amenities, making it a top choice for families, retirees, and those looking for a slower pace of life.
Why Sturminster Newton?
Sturminster Newton sits on the River Stour, with beautiful walking trails, a historic mill, and a thriving local community. The town has a rich literary history, once home to poet William Barnes and novelist Thomas Hardy, who found inspiration in its scenic surroundings. Other highlights include:
Sturminster Newton Mill, a beautifully preserved working watermill.
The Stour Valley Way, offering picturesque riverside walks.
A traditional market town centre, with independent shops, cafés, and pubs.
The Exchange, a vibrant arts and cultural venue hosting events and performances.
The town retains a strong agricultural heritage, with weekly markets and annual events celebrating local food and farming traditions.
Transport & connectivity
While offering a tranquil rural setting, Sturminster Newton remains well connected to larger towns and cities:
The A357 provides road links to Blandford Forum, Sherborne, and Shaftesbury.
Gillingham railway station (20 minutes away) offers direct trains to London Waterloo in under 2 hours.
Bournemouth and Exeter airports are within an hour’s drive for domestic and international travel.
Property Market in Sturminster Newton
Sturminster Newton’s property market is affordable compared to Dorset’s coastal towns, making it a great option for first-time buyers, families, and retirees.
Charming thatched cottages and period homes in the town centre range from £350,000 to £600,000.
Spacious detached homes and barn conversions in surrounding villages start from £500,000.
Modern houses and bungalows provide contemporary living, with prices from £300,000.
Rural properties and farmhouses with land can exceed £1 million, offering stunning countryside views.
Why live in Sturminster Newton?
With its scenic countryside, historic charm, and welcoming community, Sturminster Newton offers a laid-back rural lifestyle with good access to amenities. Whether you’re looking for a character cottage, a modern family home, or a countryside retreat, this North Dorset town provides great value and a fantastic quality of life.
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