CHOOSING THE RIGHT ESTATE AGENT FOR YOU

FIND OUT WHAT KEY ASPECTS TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN CHOOSING AN ESTATE AGENT

Thinking about selling your property, but you are unsure of which criteria you should base your estate agent choice on?

This guide will help you make an informed decision.

WHAT ROLE DO ESTATE AGENTS PLAY?

A property is most likely one of your largest financial assets, which is why it is important to work alongside a professional who you can trust and is experienced.

Working with an estate agent means that they will help you get your property ready for sale and help you sell it. This includes doing the necessary market research to value and price your property correctly to attract potential buyers. Additionally, they will advertise your property, manage viewings, help you negotiate offers, draw up contracts and can also help you find your next home or property investment opportunity.

Estate agents have the knowledge and expertise to help make your sale successful, including providing you with the necessary information and legal contacts for conveyancing.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN CHOOSING AN ESTATE AGENT

After taking the first step of deciding to sell, the next decision for most will be who you want to sell your property with.

Here are some key points to consider when making a choice:

Choosing a reliable high street estate agency: A high street estate agency, like us, knows the local area inside and out and will be able to provide you with the advice and guidance needed for a smooth selling process. Not only do they do the work online, but also in-person by assisting you with property viewings. Being experts in the field, high street estate agents understand the current property market fluctuations and have the experience needed to sell property.

Fee structures: Most high street agents operate on a commission basis, charging between 1% to 2% of the sale price, therefore, earning their fee only upon the successful sale of your home. In this way, the high street agent’s interest aligns with your interests as a seller, and it incentivises them to strive for a successful sale.

Local area expertise: Make sure that the agent you choose has good local area knowledge. For example, our branches are located on your local high street, and therefore know the neighbourhood well. Their local expertise and commitment to overseeing the entire sale process, from marketing to legal formalities, can provide you with invaluable reassurance during such a significant transaction.

Viewings: When choosing to sell your property with a high street estate agent, they can handle the viewings for you, as it is included in their service to you.

Reputation and reviews: Last, but not least, check the agent’s online reviews. Read the most recent testimonials to gain a better idea of their previous performance and suitability to selling your property. At the same time, double-check their professional accreditations. Ask yourself whether they are compliant with all the legal requirements and industry standards, registered with a professional body of the property services industry, or with The Property Ombudsman for dispute resolution.

CHOOSING WHAT SUITS YOU BEST

Your unique circumstances will greatly influence your decision. Consider the details of the services offered by each estate agent and scrutinise the fine print to sidestep any unwelcome surprises.

Here is a summary of questions to ask yourself when deciding

Do they have local area expertise?
Do you have a positive personal rapport with them?
Does the estate agent hold any professional accreditations?
Do they have positive reviews and a reliable reputation?
What is included in their fee and contract terms?
Can they help you with all aspects of your sale? For example, do they have a marketing strategy for your property? Will they arrange and conduct viewings with potential buyers?
Does the estate agent have a good track record of achieving asking prices?
What is their communication and availability like?

Ultimately, the estate agent you choose should suit your needs and expectations for your property’s journey. Click here to download your free guide to selling your property, or contact us today to find out more about the sales process and how we can help you.

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