THE MacKenzie Way is the only way. That’s the estate agent’s slogan, and a thought mirrored by those at the Ayrshire Business Awards.

The independent Saltcoats-based team scooped the ‘best estate agents’ award at the ceremony at the beginning of the month.

They were the only North Ayrshire finalist in the category, and were delighted to go onto claim the overall Ayrshire crown.

Owner Jane Parks said she and her team of three staff weren’t even aware of the awards until they were informed of their nomination.

Even after their nomination, Jane said they never saw the win coming.

She said: “We went (to the ceremony) for a laugh, never expecting anything!”

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But win they did, so what exactly set them apart?

Only charging £350 plus VAT “no matter the size of the property” was one of the reasons mentioned, but for Jane it’s more simple than that.

“Everything is black and white,” she explained, both figuratively and physically when it comes to their stylish Hamilton Street shop.

Jane continued: “Our customer service is exceptional,” while staff member Christine Daly added: “We treat everyone different, we spend a lot of time with every individual to suit their needs.”

Going above and beyond for the customer was another key focus for MacKenzie Way; whether it’s the evening or the weekend, they say they will always be available for their clients.

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It has been a rollercoaster journey to get to this stage for Jane, who admitted she began the business after she “just woke up one morning and thought ‘today, I will be an estate agent’”.

Thirteen years down the line and she couldn’t be more grateful for her first award recognition.

She added: “We want to thank the person who nominated us and everyone who visits, they started it all.

“I would like to thank my staff too, without them it would not be possible.”

Staff member, Kieran Avery, added: “An award like this for a small, independent agent who work tirelessly each day to provide the best service is simply outstanding.”