Harrogate lost a true luminary in the world of estate agency when Charles Richard Rex Smailes, one of the founding partners of Feather, Smailes & Scales (FSS) Property, passed away on Monday, October 9, 2023. An iconic figure and recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in the Harrogate Business Awards, Mr. Smailes left behind a legacy that continues to thrive through the dedicated leadership of his son, Richard Smailes, and partners Simon Croft and Dan Brumfitt.
The Early Years: Charles Smailes, the third of four sons of former Yorkshire and England Cricketer Frank Smailes and Dorothy Smailes (nee Stubbs), embarked on his property career in 1963. Over the course of 57 years, he made an indelible mark on the property industry, laying the foundation for FSS Property in 1994 before retiring in 2020. His contributions extended beyond his agency, as he was elected President of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) in 2006.
A Visionary Leader: During his tenure, Charles played a pivotal role in the creation and implementation of the National Federation of Property Professionals (now PropertyMark), a professional body committed to upholding the standards of property agents across the UK. He served as an advisor to the then Housing Minister, Yvette Cooper, and even lectured in property auctioneering at the NAEA headquarters in Warwick. Charles also became a familiar face on BBC TV’s "Homes Under the Hammer," sharing his expertise with a broader audience.
Community Commitment: Beyond his professional achievements, Charles, in partnership with Stanley and Audrey Burton, was instrumental in founding the Harrogate Families Housing Association. For more than 25 years, he led this voluntary organization, dedicated to providing quality accommodation to vulnerable homeless families in the district. In 2007, his significant and enduring contributions were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Harrogate Advertiser’s annual Harrogate Business Awards. Charles also in his spare time generously devoted much of his life to charity auctions, supporting those in need.
A Family Man: Charles Smailes leaves behind a loving family that includes his wife, two sons, and four grandchildren. His dedication to his profession was only matched by his commitment to his loved ones.
A Final Farewell: A funeral service in honor of Charles Smailes will be held at 1:15 pm on Monday, October 30, 2023, at The Church of All Saints in Ripley, followed by a gathering at Ripley Castle. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Saint Michael’s Hospice, reflecting Charles's ongoing commitment to the community.
Continuing the Legacy: Though Charles Smailes has passed on, the values and vision he shared with his founding partners, Peter Scales and Jim Feather, continue to thrive through FSS Property. Today, under the capable stewardship of his son, Richard Smailes, and partners Simon Croft and Dan Brumfitt, FSS remains a testament to Charles's enduring legacy, upholding the highest standards of excellence and community engagement in the Harrogate estate agency industry.
In memory of Charles Richard Rex Smailes, we remember a true leader and visionary whose impact on Harrogate's estate agency community will be felt for generations to come.