Old Hymerian Alisdair Bott-Francis (OH 1993-2000), founder of Oscars Estate Agents, has partnered with long-time friend and fellow Old Hymerian Paul Callis (OH 1987-1996) , as the multi-award-winning agency enters its next phase of growth. The partnership brings together 50 years of combined experience in the property sector, rooted in deep local knowledge and a shared history that began at Hymers College.

Paul and Alisdair first met as pupils at Hymers College back in the early ’90s. Now, as business partners, they are building on the success of Oscars Estate Agents - a firm founded by Alisdair and recognised for its strong local presence, integrity and award-winning performance.

While widely recognised for his achievements in elite sport- including European Championship titles and British records in swimming, Paul also brings over 25 years’ hands-on experience in property, spanning investment, development, renovation, asset management, sales and finance. He has built and managed an extensive property portfolio, working directly on renovation and development projects while overseeing sites, teams and budgets.

Together, Paul and Alisdair offer a powerful combination of founder-led vision and elite performance mindset, supported by decades of practical property experience. Both have young families rooted in the area, with their respective children now attending Hymers, continuing the Old Hymerian tradition. 

The partnership follows Oscars Estate Agents’ achievement of three consecutive Gold Awards at the British Property Awards, reflecting the agency’s consistent performance, high service standards and strong customer satisfaction.

Working together at leadership level, Paul and Alisdair will focus on strategic expansion across both sales and lettings, strengthening operational processes and delivering sustainable long-term growth while protecting the values and service standards that define the Oscars brand.

“This partnership feels like a natural evolution, Alisdair and I have known each other since school, share the same local roots and values, and bring decades of combined experience in property. Alongside my swimming career, I’ve spent over 25 years building and managing property assets, and I’m excited to apply that experience to help drive Oscars forward.” 

Paul Callis

Alisdair added: “Paul’s combination of elite performance mindset and deep property knowledge is incredibly rare. Our shared history, trust and aligned vision give us a strong platform to continue growing the business while staying true to what makes Oscars successful.”

Looking Ahead

With two Old Hymerians at the helm, Oscars Estate Agents is well positioned to accelerate growth, deepen local engagement and strengthen its position as a market-leading estate and letting agency. The partnership represents not only a professional collaboration, but a long-standing personal connection brought full circle within the local property market.