With the different types of agents out there, offering different packages and promises, how can you be sure which one is right for you? Fret no more, because we’ve created the ultimate checklist for finding the perfect estate agent:

1. Ask for recommendations

This may seem an obvious place to start, but ask friends, family members and colleagues who have recently moved which estate agents they used and what they thought of them.

Also look in your local area at the "for sale" and "sold" signs; it's a useful indicator of the agents that work well in your area.

2. See what awards they might have won for customer service

In a country filled with estate agents, property awards let the best stand out of the rest. Find out what awards the agency might have won, or been nominated for. As awards are based on customer satisfaction, you know a winner will be the best option for you.

3. Go undercover

Visit your shortlisted estate agents as a potential buyer looking for a property like your home. Pay attention to how they behave and ask yourself two questions:

Would you be happy if the property being described was yours?

Would you buy a property from them?

4. Marketing

Does the agent offer great marketing both online and offline? Great marketing can make or break a sale. You need to know that the agent you choose has great local knowledge and exposure, and can really highlight the benefits of your property to the right people.

Ask your possible agent how they will market your home, and ensure they are hitting all the major portals (such as Rightmove and Zoopla) as well as their website, local magazines, and offline portals such as window advertising and for sale boards. A good agent knows that good marketing is key for a home sale.

5. Ask these questions:

How much does the agent charge for sole agency, multi agency and what is the tie-in period? Sole agency is where one agent has the exclusive right to sell your property for a set period.

How long has the agent been established in the local area and what is their experience? A well-established agent that has experience selling properties in the immediate vicinity of your home is preferable.

Who will look after viewings? Will the estate agent be present at all viewings? Check as to whether they will be available during the peak viewing times.

6. Do they have great reviews?

Before you go with any agent, you should check out the reviews online. Facebook and Google are the first places you should go, and will give you an idea of a real customer experience with that agent.

If an agency if getting bad reviews consistently, avoid like the plague.

7. Read the terms and conditions of the agreement

Make sure you're happy with all the small print before signing anything. Don't be afraid to question things you don't understand or don't agree with.

As a local, independent agent with a big reach, Neil King Residential are the best of both worlds when it comes to great marketing, and we always do everything we can to make sure your property is sold as quickly as possible, for the best price.

We recently won 1st place at The British Property Awards for the 2nd year running! We’re proud to be one of the winning agents that have our customer service levels provide a benchmark for local, regional and national competition.

To find out more about our award-winning customer service, or for any questions on choosing the right agent contact us today by clicking HERE. We’re always happy to help!