How to avoid costly mistakes when choosing your estate agent
When you start to think about selling your home, you can quickly become overwhelmed with the sheer amount of things you need to think about.
And then you have the valuation appointment, and that really raises more questions than answers.
Which agent should you instruct?
They all 'kind of' said the same thing.
When you start to think about selling your home, you can quickly become overwhelmed with the sheer amount of things you need to think about. Do you need to decorate? Or even renovate?
Should you be boxing up all of your family photographs and stuffing them in the loft?
When should you have a valuation?
How much should you be trying to sell for?
Should you just call the biggest agency in your town?
And then you have the valuation appointment, and that really raises more questions than answers.
Which agent should you instruct? They all 'kind of' said the same thing.
Each of them said that they'll put your property on the websites. And they will all come round to take photos.
So, how are you supposed to navigate your way through this tricky process? What should you do to achieve the best outcome?
There are a few key things that you should look at:
1) Does the agent understand you? Could you work together?
Do you get on? You're going to work together for months; you need to like each other.
2) Are they professional? Qualified? Experienced? Do you feel confident that they know how to handle the sale of your property?
Do you trust them to have your best interests at heart?
3) Test drive them. Call the office and try to arrange an appointment. Were they pleasant to deal with? Were they professional and helpful? Did you feel looked after?
If you called the office and they didn't answer, and when you left a voicemail, they didn't come back to you, this is a clear indication. It is not necessarily a cause to write them off completely. But, if calls are missed, and voicemail messages are not returned, enquiries are being missed. The next time this happens, it could be a potential buyer for your property.
4) Do you feel as if they know what they're doing?
Will they be able to guide you through the sale process and explain what everything means? Will they offer sensible, helpful advice? Will they negotiate hard for you? You need to know if they are in this to get you a great price or just to get the sale agreed, whatever the offer, for their own figures? If they don't care about the price that they ultimately achieve for you, then they could end up costing you thousands, leaving money on the table. Your money!
As you progress on your journey to sell your home, you will encounter more estate agents, whether booking valuation appointments or viewings on properties to buy. You can make this process simple and straightforward by not rushing into choosing an agent. Or give yourself untold stress if you do not choose carefully.
As you can see, there are many things to consider when choosing an estate agent. Far more than just market share or fees.
If you choose wisely, a great agent can make all the difference to your experience and your bank balance!