High-end estate agency Exceptional Homes has announced it has appointed a new regional director to manage its portfolio of properties in north and north-west London.

David Schindler, who previously worked for Estates Gazette magazine as advertisement director, has been chosen to direct operations for the firm in the area as a franchisee.

Dr Jeremy Howard, founder and managing partner of Exceptional Homes, commented: "David subscribes to, and personally embodies, our company''s ethos of honesty, openness, innovation and integrity."

Established in May, Exceptional Homes deals only with properties worth in excess of £1 million and claims it charges customers "less than half the published fees of traditional London-based agents" as it is able to cut costs by not using traditional high street offices.

The firm is currently recruiting new staff, with Dr Howard commenting the firm looks for "significant experience within the property industry at a very senior level" when selecting new franchisees.

However, fellow high-end real estate company Savills has warned in recent days that turmoil on world financial market over the last few weeks could have an effect on luxury properties in London as those working in the financial industry face uncertainty about upcoming bonuses.