Deciding which agent you are going to instruct to sell your property is also a crucial decision.
Get it right and the moving process can be simpler, quicker and stress free. Choose badly and it could end up costing you money, time and hassle.
At Sansome & George we’ve more than 20 years of experience in selling homes so here’s the five fundamental things to consider when choosing an estate agent.
1. Create a shortlist of local agents
Build a list of about five agents. Then start checking them out. Some of the questions to get answers to include: Do they have good reviews? How do they market properties? Where are they based? Are they part of a chain or independently owned?
2. Pop in
Once you’ve done your initial homework it’s a good idea to visit each agent. Pop into their office because this way you’ll see if you can build rapport with them and also how they treat people face to face. If you like what you see, feel and hear, invite them around to give you a valuation
3. Valuation time
When the agent comes around to conduct the valuation use the opportunity to ask them lots of questions - don’t be shy. Ask about their fees, terms and conditions and how they’ll make your property stand out from the rest.
Things to look out for here include: punctuality, professionalism, local area knowledge and if you actually like them. The last point is an important one as you’ll be working closely with them if you instruct them.
4. Ask for evidence
When an agent says your home is worth X ask he or she why they’ve reached that figure. Also ask them for proof of comparable properties they have sold in the area within the past three to six months. At this point a good agent will have no problem with also putting you in touch with clients who have used their services in the past.
5. Decision time
Once you’ve taken everything into account let the winning agent know. This is the beginning of a partnership between you and the agent. To achieve what you both want - for you to sell your home and for them to earn their commission – you will need to work together.
There are a lot of questions you need to ask and at Sansome & George we are confident that given the opportunity we can answer them all correctly and honestly.
Thanks for reading.
David G Sansome
Managing Director
Want to get a SOLD or LET sign outside your property quicker?
Call Sansome & George and our team on 01256 807 111 or email: dgs@sansomeandgeorge.co.uk for honest, expert and friendly advice.
