Women have been traditionally seen as homemakers, but estate agency has always been a male-dominated world.

Now a group of feisty females plan to challenge that, with the first women-only estate agents in the UK.

Alexandra Rose Estates, launched last week, has women franchisees working virtually in Havering and Thurrock, Brentwood, Chelmsford, and north Essex.

Debbie Hunt, who owns the Havering and Thurrock business, said: “Estate agents have a bad reputation and that’s something we hope to change.

“We’re not saying the men are bad at their jobs, but I think women have strengths highly suited for this business.”

The 40-year-old mum-of-two, who has a background in motor sales, says women are “emotive” and “genuinely concerned with clients’ happiness.”

Although the business is open to everyone, Debbie, from Billercay, said she felt female clients in particular may be “more open and comfortable”, brokering deals with their own sex.

She added: “We want to build a trustworthy business which also supports strong businesswomen at the same time.”

Company founder Christopher Walkey, who works in estate agency marketing, came up with the idea after professional and public feedback called for more women in the industry.

Chris, who now hopes branch out nationwide, added: “What women do is understand household needs a lot better, including schools and shopping.”

The company website promises to “breathe new life into the industry”.