Estate Agents; How To Select The Right Operator

Whenever buying or selling property it can be advisable to utilise the services of estate agents as these have the experience of the complex process and the industry more generally. There is however a number of different considerations that should be made if the process is to be successful. One of these is whether the estate agents are local or not; fundamentally the importance of local knowledge cannot be underestimated.

Using local estate agents is hugely beneficial, the clearest benefit is the local knowledge they will have but an added bonus is that as they are local they are likely to have a local shop. This is important as it allows people looking at properties in the area to see details of your property in the shop window. Additionally however it is important ensure agents will have similar properties to yours on their books.

For instance, it is rarely advisable to utilise estate agents if you are selling a three bedroom terraced home and the agent predominantly deals in large country estates. This works in reverse so it is important to find an agent hat has similar properties to yours, at this stage it is also advisable to ask them what successes they have had with similar properties. This has the bonus that agents with such a previous portfolio will be known locally for selling property that is similar to your own; hence people are more inclined to start their property search with that particular agent.

Ideally around three different estate agents will be used when it comes to getting a property valued. Bear in mind that an agents’ valuation is just a professional opinion based upon their knowledge of the local property market and factors affecting the property industry more widely. It is important to gain numerous valuations so that an average figure can be built up, often valuations will differ depending upon the agent.

Even though agents will differ in their valuation figures it is not always the best course of action to simply fall for the highest. Ask agents to back up their claims with proof of previous properties sold in the area, if it all checks out, go for this agent.

It is also worth taking the time to ask estate agents exactly how they intend to market the property. Most agents now realise the benefits of using online property portals as a medium of getting the largest exposure for the house or flat. Despite the modern age however the value of using the local press and the shop window should not be discounted as both can generate a great deal of interest.

Remember that before employing an agent you should keep your cards close to your chest. For example, let the agent tell you how much the property is worth rather than telling them how much you want for it. They are the ones with the expertise and hence they should be doing the legwork.

It is hoped that this article has made it clear how to secure a great service from estate agents. The importance of local knowledge should not be discounted as it is vitally important when selling property; the same applies when buying as a local agent can provide vital information that is difficult to find elsewhere. Make the decisions carefully as property is one of the largest expenses in life, hence it is essential that an agent is only chosen after a detailed and well researched decision making process.