Persimmon Homes Sales Agent Mocked Potential Homebuyer on Scandal-Hit Estate in Derby

A sales agent working for Persimmon Homes, one of the UK's largest housebuilding firms, has been suspended following an incident involving a potential homebuyer on the Buttercup Leys estate in Derby.

The homebuyer, who was hoping to purchase a 'dream home' on the estate where properties can sell for up to £400,000, reported that the agent swore at him and made disparaging remarks about his financial situation based on the car he was driving.

Photos show the Persimmon Homes employee making an offensive gesture during a heated exchange with the prospective buyer. The buyer, who attended the sales office with his family, reported that their viewing appointment was abruptly cancelled without prior notice. He claimed that upon arrival, the sales agent mocked him and his family, questioning their ability to afford the property.

"We had a viewing booked for 4.30 pm, but we only realised the appointment had been cancelled after we checked our emails upon returning home," the buyer explained. "When we arrived at the sales office, the agent seemed shocked and then began making rude comments about our financial status and our car."

The buyer recounted that the agent's behaviour escalated, leading to a confrontation outside the office. "He followed me outside, continued to make derogatory comments, and even threatened me," the buyer said. "The whole experience left my family traumatised."

Witnesses at the scene corroborated that both parties exchanged rude remarks, prompting Persimmon Homes to suspend the sales agent pending a full investigation. A spokesperson for Persimmon Homes stated, "This behaviour is unacceptable, and we apologise for any distress caused. Customer service is of utmost importance to us, and we are committed to ensuring all customers and staff are treated with respect."

The Buttercup Leys estate has been marred by various controversies since its construction by Persimmon Homes. Residents have reported numerous issues, including the erection of an 8ft high fence without planning permission, which has since been vandalised and described as an 'eyesore' by locals.

Councillor Dan Corbin of South Derbyshire District Council criticised the fence, saying, "What is up now is disgraceful – it's heavily graffitied and a complete eyesore." A retrospective planning application for the fence was refused last September, but Persimmon has since submitted a new proposal.

Residents of Buttercup Leys have also expressed frustrations over the home-buying process. Many have reported experiencing stress, depression, and bullying. Lee Else, a resident and supplier quality engineer, said, "Persimmon preyed on first-time buyers, creating a nightmare scenario where people lost significant amounts of money or faced losing their homes if they didn't comply with the sales demands."

Kim Durkin, who bought plots on the estate in 2015 and 2017, felt misled about the properties being leasehold. "We were told that all new-build estates are leasehold now, but I feel we were mis-sold," she said. Similarly, Vikki Williamson, one of the first residents on the estate, shared her frustration with Persimmon's aftercare service. "Once people move in, the aftercare is non-existent," she noted.

Persimmon Homes has responded to these concerns by maintaining regular contact with residents and encouraging them to reach out with any property-related queries.

The incident involving the estate agent has further tarnished the reputation of the Buttercup Leys development, which is already struggling with multiple issues. Persimmon Homes' response to the incident and the ongoing concerns of residents will be crucial in addressing the negative publicity and restoring confidence among potential homebuyers.