Our homes are generally our most valuable assets, so when you decide to sell – choosing the right agent is imperative. Although important aspects, picking the right agent should be about more than just fees and price.
Finding agents to value your home
Googling “best agent in Southampton” or “best agent in [area]” can be a decent start to find various estate agents. However, checking reviews for agents, talking to family and friends who have sold property and deciding what type of company you want is a good route too. Choosing two-three agents to request a valuation from should usually be enough.
Questions to ask yourself;
1. What company do I want to give my business to? Corporate, independent, franchise, family-business…
2. What is important to me? Good reviews, supporting local business, referrals from friends/family, local knowledge/experience, etc…
3. Are they on social media? What do I think about how they present themselves there? Instagram and Facebook…
Preparing for valuation
When choosing an agent, it’s worth having a few questions ready to get a feel for the agent and company. Do make sure you prepare your home as best as possible – we have put some general tips on how to prepare your home for valuations and viewings in this blogpost
https://edisongreen.co.uk/industry/preparing-your-property-for-viewings-and-valuations-to-increase-your-saleability/
Questions to ask yourself;
1. What timeframes does the agent think are realistic to secure a sale?
2. How do they justify their price?
3. How does their office work? Who will I be dealing with? One-to-one service or are you with different people throughout the various stages of the sales process
4. What is their sales, marketing and pricing strategy? Guide price, asking price, offers over/in excess of…. Open days, individual viewings….
5. What is the fee and what is included within this? Competitive fee and decent service included as standard
Assessing your market appraisal
Summarising your thoughts after your potential agents have conducted their market appraisal is useful to ensure you pick the right agent. Remember that this person will be representing you and your house with potential buyers and you need to trust and have confidence they are the right person for the job.
Questions to ask yourself;
1. Who filled me with confidence they can sell my home? Sales strategy, pricing, previous experience…
2. What agent represents me best? Typical sales person or a more straightforward genuine person…
3. Do I agree with their valuation and strategies presented?
4. Do I feel like the agent understands my situation and needs adequately? Will this be a good professional working relationship for example…
Contract
Now this is where you have to pay attention before signing anything. Most agency contracts are fairly similar, but there are absolutely some points you should check and ensure you are happy with before signing. On this point, it’s important to remember that although many agents want to tie you into long-contracts this is not how it needs to be. Being wary of extra charges is incredibly important – photos for example, should be a standard in the price you pay and any agent who wants to charge you extra for this should justify the cost and need to charge.
Questions to ask yourself:
1. How long is this contract? Zero-weeks or multi-week contract….
2. Are there any extra charges for specific services? If so, how do I feel about this? Think pictures in particular.
3. What are my options if I’m not happy with the service provided?
Edison Green always offers zero-week contracts and never charge extra for any premium services. We believe in fostering relationships with our clients and focus on experienced people who can provide a one-to-one service. Contact us today to discuss your property needs
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