The house buying process is often an unfamiliar experience – with the average person only owning 3 properties in their lifetime. The first step on the journey is to decide on an estate agent. Even this is not a straightforward choice – with multiple companies available both on the high street and online – it is hard to get it right. It is vital you do so though, as they will be your advocate throughout the sale.
Before you appoint your estate agent, here are 4 questions you should ask.
1. What similar properties have you sold recently?
Knowledge of similar property sales and experience of the local area is a big plus when selecting your agent.
If the estate agent is a key player in the neighbourhood you can be sure your house will be seen in the majority of local searches; moreover they may have a ready list of people who are interested in your type of home.
Local knowledge is also a big tick – they will be able to highlight key selling points for the property and match it up with the right type of buyer.
Also ask how long their previous properties took to sell, and if they had to reduce the price. This might also influence your decisions.
2. How will you market my property?
We are all familiar with the key players like Zoopla and Right Move, so these should come as standard. However, see what else they will do to promote your property. Do they have a database with daily or weekly mailers, local press, active social media and/or will they place ‘For Sale’ boards outside the home? The key is to get your property seen by as many people as possible until you connect with the one that wants to buy your home at the right price.
Ask about photography and floorplans too. Do these come as standard? Professional photography can really help to attract prospects.
3. Who is my contact person?
Most house viewings will be done by your agent, and often you will not be present. You must therefore trust your estate agent is someone that is reliable, professional and likeable. You need them to be able to build a rapport rather than putting off prospective buyers!
For the online agents you will probably do the viewings yourself. If this is the case – prepare yourself in advance. A good first impression is vital.
4. What is the suggested sale price?
This is what it is all about, right?! But you must be wary of agents who dangle higher sale prices as an incentive to go with their company versus another. Putting your property on for too high a price can be damaging – putting off potential viewers and elongating the process.
The estate agent needs to have a good feel for the right price for your property, based on experience and local market knowledge. They should not just tell you the price you want to hear. Ask them to show evidence of similar sales and the final agreed price to help substantiate their offers.
Bottom line – it is important you research and compare any estate agents before you make the final decision. They are a pivotal part of the buying process so they need to be acting with your best interest. Good luck!
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