About Us
we love what we do
At Onyx, we use our unique credentials of real estate investment expertise and passion for property to help buyers and sellers realise their dreams.
The business was founded by Ugo Arinzeh, born in Nigeria, raised in America and now living in and loving London. She has built off her successful career in real estate investment banking, an MBA in Finance, and personal investing to create a truly bespoke property consultancy.
We make buying and selling property a pleasure, delivering a high-quality service to clients from the UK and overseas that removes the stress often associated with such transactions. Our intimate knowledge of London and its property market enables us to partner with buyers to find their perfect home and with sellers to secure the best price. International clients receive the benefit of a global perspective on buying and selling property along with in-depth local knowledge of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
For property investors, we know which areas represent the best options for generating the highest returns and will utilize sharp negotiation skills polished in the world of corporate finance to ensure maximum value for money. For sellers, real time market data, along with candid feedback and exceptional marketing will attract buyers to secure the best offers.
We deliver world-class service at every stage and look forward to helping you achieve your property goals.
Meet the Team
Ugo Arinzeh – Property Consultant
I have a real passion for helping people find their perfect home or investment property in London. As someone who moved to the UK in 2011 I know the ins and outs of making a big move to a new location and the importance of finding the perfect area.
I built my passion for property while working in the states as a real estate investment banker and personal investor. Once I moved to London I fell in love with not just the architecture of this global city, but the incredible neighbourhoods that offer a diversity of feel and amenities. From country-like serenity, to ultra urban, you really can find a place that works for you, your family, and your personality. Onyx was for me the manifestation of my entire background to do work I enjoy while helping people in a very personal way.
I love doing what I do because I am helping people during really important times of their lives. I am grateful for the trust they put in me and strive to deliver outstanding results.
Ela Nistor – Property Consultant
Ela Nistor started her real estate career in 2005 in Chicago as a Licensed Real Estate Professional Over the course of her career, she has also achieved the designation of Certified Negotiation Expert.
Ela loves working with buyers Sellers and Landlords in residential real estate, new construction projects/developments as well as investment properties. She is a homeowner herself, landlord and successful real estate investor and can bring her skills and expertise to serve her clients.
After moving to London in 2021 Ela decided to continue to use her wide range of experience to give significant advantage to her clients and to guide them to successfully meet their real estate goals. As a bespoke property agent Ela can help sellers maximize their profits and minimize the time that their property is on the market by being directly involved in every step of the transaction and providing end-to-end solutions.
Prior to her real estate career, Ela previously worked as a TV personality, co-founder and co-producer of a one-hour TV show in Chicago. This invaluable experience has helped her understand people as well as have a keen eye on presentation and marketing.
In her college years Ela worked in the fashion industry and today she uses her fashion sense to help clients “dress up” their home for a fast and profitable sale.
Outside of her work, Ela enjoys having a good laugh with friends, reading, going for long walks, and playing tennis with her husband and two daughters.
Apple de Guzman – Transaction Coordinator
As a valuable member of the team, Apple’s role is to progress all transactions with effective oversight and communication.
Hannah Liversidge – Administrative Assistant
Hannah Liversidge has been a valuable member of the Onyx Property Team and loves helping to deliver the transactions and marketing process of the business.
With great energy and a passion for creative tasks, she enjoys ensuring that the back end of the business is running smoothly and new ideas are followed through.
What our clients say
“
Ugo is the best in the business! My husband and I had no idea how to go about buying a property in London, which is very different than purchasing in America. Ugo walked us through the ins and outs. She took her time to explain how everything works. She also listened intently to our needs and expectations. Due to her care for us as clients and wanting the best for us, she found us the perfect home within two days!
With her knowledge of the market, she knew we could purchase the flat below the asking price and worked hard to get us a great deal.
I would never use anyone else when buying property in the U.K. She truly takes care of her clients.
Ugo is kind, intelligent, honest and supportive!
M.S.
BUYER
“
It was a pleasure working with Ugo. Ugo was a true gem. As an American and a first time buyer in the UK, Ugo was indispensable in all aspects of the purchase. It is far to say I couldn’t and wouldn’t have done it without her. Although I had always wanted to purchase a property in the UK, I was always intimidated. Ugo made it happen!
Jack McLarney
OVERSEAS BUYER
“
Exceptionally high-quality service is what can be expected from Ugo Arinzeh and her professional Onyx Property team at Keller Williams. We discovered Ugo through her fantastic and informational YouTube videos and were immediately drawn to her. Even though we have been visiting England for over 30 years, we quickly realized, as overseas buyers, the real estate purchasing process was very different from what we experienced in Manhattan and Bermuda where we also have homes.
Early on we recognized Ugo's expertise and understanding for both the American and UK markets and this made her the ideal choice as our real estate agent. Our ten-day London visit to search for a two-bedroom flat went seamlessly thanks to the efforts of the Onyx Property team. Our several site visits were efficiently organized and reflected our amenity preferences. We appreciated viewing flats in different boroughs to get a sense of which neighborhoods appealed to us the most.
A definite advantage to working with the Onyx Property team is their willingness to share high calibre referrals for services we required such as a solicitor, insurance agent, etc. They also scheduled flat/building surveys which were extremely important and comprehensive. We could never have done all of this so quickly or efficiently. Throughout this entire real estate process communication with the team has been responsive and positive.
Pleased and grateful sums up how we feel about our experience with working with Ugo and her Onyx Property team.
Marty Davis
OVERSEAS BUYERS
“
We got the place we were dreaming about and as plainly as I can say this, I don’t think we would have gotten it without Ugo on our team. It was highly competitive with multiple offers and only a few allowed in to see it at all. Ugo made sure we got in and coached us through a winning offer. Thank you Ugo!
Paul Killebrew
TENANT
“
I had the pleasure of working with Ugo and the Onyx property team to search for property in London. As a first time buyer, I found her wisdom, resourcefulness and tenacity were critical to my successful search. She kept me informed and oriented on what I needed to do at each step in the process, and put me in contact with skilled professionals to assist with everything from mortgage advice to financial transactions to interior design. I was impressed with her understanding of many nuances of the London market, and as an American now living in London, I found great value in having her as a buying agent. Once we settled on a property, her rigor and negotiation expertise helped me land a good price with a great view!
Nat Ayewah
FIRST-TIME BUYER
“
Moving house is stressful, and having Ugo and her lovely assistant help me put my flat to rent took a lot of stress off. Her attention to detail, kindness and all-round helpfulness made the process easeful. I was very happy with the selection process and diverse choice of really great tenants. Her team maximised marketing, making our on-line presentation beautiful - I'm just glad the tenants were as impressed with the real thing. Thanks Onyx!
Chipo Chung
LANDLORD
“
Ugo and her team were fantastic! I'm Canadian, and so was surprised to find out that buying agents are not as common in the UK. As a couple looking for their first family home together in London, we wanted someone to simplify the process for us. I found Ugo from her YouTube videos, and immediately knew we would gel.
Ugo was professional from the very beginning: she was with us for every single viewing, set up a group chat for us to discuss properties, and gave quality feedback to narrow down our wish list. Her team arranged every viewing in advance, which saved us so much time and stress, and grouped them together in times that worked for our busy work schedules.
Having Ugo look after our interests was invaluable as we took the plunge. Thank you, Ugo!
Winnie Sham
INTERNATIONAL BUYER
“
As a young professional from the US and a first-time home buyer, I needed help navigating the complex real estate processes in London where there was no go-to agent to help you with your search. Ugo was the answer and provided an amazing full service showing me multiple properties, aggregating all the data on them, and ultimately guiding me to make the best decision on location/value. Her help was invaluable throughout the buyer journey, from the first steps of finding a place to negotiating on price to locking in a mortgage to closing. She made it stress free for me and helped with all the complexities that came up as a first-time buyer. If I had to do it all over again, I’d do it with Ugo.
Meg Reddy
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER
“
“Having decided to buy a flat in London I wasn’t relishing the task of endless searching to find exactly the right property for me. Luckily I was introduced to Ugo and the first thing she did was to help me define exactly what it was I was looking for.
Ugo has a fantastic knowledge of the London residential property market and she was able to give me an analysis of different areas with their pros and cons and different price points. In the end she suggested a location I hadn’t even thought of and eventually we found the perfect pied-à-terre at the right price.
Working with Ugo was a joy. She quietly takes away the stress of dealing with agents and sifting through listings. She was able to help with negotiating which allowed me to make the most efficient use of my time. Highly recommended!”
Graeme Fry
SALES
“
“From our initial email contact from our home in Canada to Ugo in London, it took less than a month to find the perfect apartment. Working with Ugo was a pleasure: she was very organized and efficient. Once we arrived in London, Ugo quickly determined what we were looking for and only showed us properties in our preferred district. Once we decided upon a property and everything was signed and finalized, she followed up to make sure stipulations in the contract were carried out. We would have no hesitation in recommending her.”
Judith & Derek Pannell
SALES
“
I have used Onyx to manage my property in Kensington since 2014, both for long and short term lets. In the past I have used other agencies, but nothing has come close to the professionalism, and personalized service I have had from the Onyx team. At every point they have gone above and beyond to resolve issues, to find awesome tenants, and to secure me the best possible rental income. They manage everything, which is super-important for me as a landlord living abroad. Ugo is a very skilled real estate agent, she knows the market, and she's surrounded herself with a team of knowledgeable professionals to take care of everything from finance to maintenance of my property. I can rest easy knowing that it's in the best hands. Thank you Onyx!
Clare G
OVERSEAS LANDLORD
“
“As international clients, Onyx’s services were a perfect fit. They handled everything for us without us having to set foot in the U.K. Despite many complications on the other side, Onyx was able to achieve completion within just 4 weeks of listing and 2 prospective buyers with serious offers. We were able to sell our flat quickly and fulfil all of our obligations thanks to you and your team.”
Stella, Seller, Fitzroy, N1
SALES
“
As an American looking to buy property in the U.K, I can't recommend Ugo enough. She's a skilled realtor who knows what she's talking about. Whilst I couldn't work with Ugo in the end, her guidance and insight into the London market were spectacular.
She answered all of my questions. Was knowledgeable about what steps needed to be taken as first-time buyer. And even added extra nuggets of information that helped me fine-tune the search and ensure I was making a smart investment.
I can't say this any more clearly, if you're interested in buying a property in London use Ugo. She's legit!
Briana Carter
OVERSEAS BUYER
“
“We worked with Ugo to help us renovate our flat in Chelsea that she had helped us buy. She and her team were extremely efficient in managing the entire process. We were presented options throughout and even with multiple unforeseen problems cropping up, we always felt that she knew what she was doing and a solution would be found. We are very happy with the outcome of the improvements and now have a beautiful home to enjoy for many years to come.”
Simona S., SW3
INTERIOR DESIGN
“
“Onyx has managed our flat in Maida Vale for several years and we’ve been very pleased with the high level of service and attention we have received. Recently we approached the firm to assist with the refurbishment of another flat in St. Johns Wood. Ugo and her team completed the assignment in 2 weeks in line with budget. Both the high level of finish and quality of workmanship ensure we would highly recommend Onyx for these services.”
Kay, Landlord, London, W9
MANAGEMENT
“
Ugo Arinzeh is fantastic and we would highly recommend her!! What we really like about her service was:
1. She was always the one to do the viewings which meant she knew our property and could answer all the questions for prospective buyers. In total we had 50+ viewings.
2. Her marketing included: great photographs, 3D virtual walkthrough, online portals, social media, open house, contacting other agents, video and pay per click advertising
3. She provided regular viewing appointment updates as well as feedback from appointments.
Dana Warcel
SELLER
“
“My mom and I were referred to Ugo through a real estate agent in Turkey. We started our conversations through face-time and explained to her what we needed. Ugo made sure we had lots of options across each part of the city before we decided on a short-list. Throughout this process she never let us feel like we were running out of choices, she was very calming, also very honest and open about where we had to make and not make compromises. She was also very good at negotiating on behalf of us and we got ourselves a great place to live in London! Thank you for everything Ugo!”
Merve & Yasemin, NW6
PURCHASE
“
“We could never have imagined that buying a home in London could have been an absolutely pain free process. From the first meeting to discuss our plans with Ugo we were completely at ease. She is so knowledgable, organised and impeccably professional. We had our hearts set on a property and her sharp instincts and negotiating skills made the difference in getting our offer accepted. From acceptance to exchange, her recommendations and guidance made the entire process seamless and incredibly quick. We first laid eyes on our family home in May and were unpacking dishes and bedsheets in August! This was the most important purchase of our lives and we could not have done it without her.”
Shelly & Francesc
PURCHASE
“
“Not only did I achieve the asking price within one day; the sale itself, completed in record time of 4 weeks; I also saved myself the costs of travelling to the UK to oversee things. It has been an enjoyable experience. I very much doubt if any other agent could have achieved what Ugo did for my sale, and the outcome speaks for itself.”
Mariam, Property Seller, NW4
Mariam, Property Seller, NW4
SALES
“
Just completed my second purchase within one year with Ugo. Need I say more? She is very professional. Superb as a buyer’s agent and also looking after the lettings and property management side really well. Highly recommend.
Michelle Brooker
PROPERTY PURCHASE
“
"Ugo is just what I need - highly professional. I appreciate her honest opinion on what suits me as an international buyer investing in London. I like to look for my own properties, but Ugo is instrumental in getting the purchase agreed for me at the right price, beating off other offers. From agreeing the purchase to completion and then lettings, it was all hassle-free. I am now buying my second flat in London in one year - again through Ugo. Can't recommend her more, if you are looking for professionalism in an agent/consultant who gives you her dedicated service and takes pride in it."
Michelle L., Hong Kong
PURCHASE & LETTINGS
“
We were initially cautious about calling in Ugo and Keller Williams, as their approach seemed quite different from the general pack. But after a number of poor experiences with local agents, we decided ask Ugo for a valuation and assessment.
It was a good choice.
We were impressed with Ugo’s research and local knowledge, her grasp of the kind of buyer for our unusual home, and how to reach them.
She made good suggestions for improvements to maximise the value; and although we couldn’t do everything, this was key to getting full asking price offers.
Throughout the process Ugo was fully “hands on”; from directing the photoshoot to reviewing feedback from viewings with us, keeping us fully in the loop.
Thirty days from first viewing we received the full asking price offer; nearly £250k more than the best local agent valuation.
This was without question the best Estate Agent experience we have had, and we have no hesitation in fully recommending Ugo.
She is completely honest, committed, highly skilled, friendly and personable; we can’t praise her high enough for her conduct throughout the process.
If you want a consistent point of contact throughout the selling process,
an honest and accurate evaluation of your property and the market,
suggestions how to maximise value, and
active marketing to appropriate purchasers
Ugo should be your first call.
She will completely revolutionise the old fashioned approach to buying and selling property in this area; and it is about time someone did that!
Andrew Cumming
PURCHASE & LETTINGS
“
We can’t thank Ugo enough for her assistance with our relocation to the UK especially during a global pandemic. I was fortunate to find one of Ugo’s YouTube videos giving advice on expats moving to London. She had numerous videos that I found helpful. Ugo has been such a wonderful help. She helped us find a fantastic home, assisted us with furnishing it (all of this done virtually) and overall provided support during this process. I thoroughly enjoyed working with her designing our home. I was thrilled walking into our home for the first time to see everything come together. Ugo goes above and beyond to add the personal touch, she sets a high standard for professionalism and we would highly recommend her.
Dawn Wilcox
OVERSEAS CLIENT
“
Ugo has been lovely to work with on the purchase of Hornton Street , very professional and helped to make sure the purchase ran smoothly from start to finish. Hope to work together again soon.
Lia Graham
BUYER
“
Ugo and her team are currently helping me find the best area for me in London as I prepare to move there for the first time. She is knowledgeable, professional, and cares for her clients and carefully considers their wants and needs, all while exhibiting true passion for what she does. It's been a pleasure working with her, and I trust her expertise fully as I continue in my property search.
Thomas Gluodenis
PROPERTY SEARCH
“
Ugo at Onyx has looked after us for many years. She rented out our apartment in West Hampstead from 2014, immaculately managing all the payments and maintenance... a godsend when you live abroad. When the time came for us to sell she even beat the high street agents in finding a buyer and negotiating the sale. She's reliable, friendly and passionate about what she does. What more could you want!
Claudia Lloyd
OVERSEAS LANDLORD
“
I am a renter in one of the properties that Ugo manages and have had a great experience. Ugo paid a ton of attention to details in furnishing the flat. I have also had a great experience with maintenance with Onyx. I had a maintenance issue on the weekend and Onyx had someone out to look at it within 3 hours. It was a huge relief to get that sort of attention! I highly recommend working with Onyx.
Sarah Herman
TENANT
“
Ugo and her team are fantastic to work with. We are overseas based landlords with a property in London, and Ugo has seamlessly handled the end to end process from finding tenants, onboarding them and handling any issues. I highly recommend Onyx Property Team, they are a pleasure to work with.
Anna Murphy
OVERSEAS LANDLORD
“
We had the pleasure of working with Ugo from Onyx Property Team in buying our property. Ugo has provided excellent service and professionalism throughout! She’s a very knowledgeable, dedicated and proactive estate agent. I can’t recommend Onyx Property Team enough! If you’re looking for a bespoke service, Onyx is your go to!
Dayana Nikolova
PURCHASE CLENT
“
I have known Ugo for many years now. I have had the opportunity to work with her as a landlord. What strikes me with her, is her passion, professionalism and dedication. There’s nothing fake or contrived about her. Her smile is genuine, her compassion is real, her love for the city is infectious and her commitment is unwavering. I trust her with my business. Ugo helps give a good name to the estate agency business.
Guy Essome
LANDLORD
“
We worked with Ugo during 2 purchases (in covid!), her market expertise, knowledge of the process, diligence and hard work got our deals done. There was NO WAY these transactions got done without her!
Karen Landis
BUYER
“
We at Emerald Management SA manage a portfolio of international private clients. A key asset for a number of them is London residential real estate; both as investors and owner-occupiers. We have immensely benefited from the services of Ugo and her team. This has included property sourcing, acquisitions, lettings, and management. Ugo's market knowledge, professionalism, efficiency, and creativity have enabled our clients to successfully meet their objectives. Her proactive approach to the property business has ensured that she is always foremost in our minds for all matters related to London real estate!
Buzz Amiaka
RELOCATION SUPPORT
“
Excellent service!! Ugo is a life saver and she exceeded our expectations with a record turn around time.
Stella Okoli
PRIVATE CLIENT
“
It would be easy to recommend Ugo on the basis of her hard work, passion and positivity but this is not what sets her apart. Her determination to deliver and to deliver to the highest standards is really her forte.
Richard Holland
PRIVATE CLIENT
“
The benefits of using Ugo were immense. I had always thought that I had to go through a high street estate agency chain. I think those days are now over. Regardless of which geographical area you want to move to, Ugo does her homework and a huge amount of research.
The best thing about an independent estate agent.
This includes calling all the local agents to compile a shortlist. She is incredibly dedicated and the end result was my dream home. Thank you Ugo. I can't thank you enough.
Lewis Malka
BUYER
“
Ugo is a very professional and dynamic property consultant who carefully balances the interests and expectations of both purchasers and sellers.
I would most definitely work with Ugo again and would have no hesitation in recommending her to prospective clients.
Jonathan Wilson
PRIVATE CLIENT
“
Ugo was excellent during the whole process. She understood there was a deal to be done and managed to ensure both parties were well informed.
A pleasure to do business with and would highly recommend her.
Keith Patton
BUYER
“
Ugo provided excellent service in securing my flat and assisting with maintaining the property. I particularly appreciated her efficiency and thoroughness.
Dail St Claire
LANDLORD
“
I had a great experience with Ugo. I would 100% recommend her services. The words I would use to describe are transparent and easy to deal with. Great customer service!
Josh Lytton
PRIVATE CLIENT
Partners
