Choosing the right estate agent is key to successfully selling or buying a property. The right agent will guide you through the process, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you get the best deal. But how do you know which estate agent is the best fit for you?
Before hiring an estate agent, it’s important to ask the right questions. In this article, we’ll cover the top 5 questions to ask your estate agent to help you make an informed decision.
1. How will you market my property?
Effective marketing is crucial when selling a property. A good estate agent should have a clear strategy for promoting your home to potential buyers.
What to look for:
- Online listings: Ask which property portals they use (e.g., Rightmove, Zoopla) and if they offer premium listings.
- Social media: Find out if they use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to showcase properties.
- Photography and videography: Will they provide professional photos or video tours to highlight your property?
- Local advertising: Do they use traditional methods like window displays or local newspapers to reach nearby buyers?
Understanding their estate agent marketing plan will give you a sense of how well they can attract the right buyers.
2. What are your fees and what’s included?
Estate agent fees can vary, so it’s important to clarify how much you’ll be paying and what’s included in their services.
Key things to ask:
- Commission rates: Find out if the agent charges a percentage of the sale price or a fixed fee.
- Included services: What’s covered by the fee? Does it include marketing, photography, or accompanied viewings?
- Additional costs: Are there any extra costs for services like premium listings or energy performance certificates (EPCs)?
Understanding the full breakdown of costs will help you avoid unexpected fees later in the process, and give you a solid footing to negotiate the estate agent fees.
3. How much experience do you have with properties like mine?
Not all estate agents are experienced in selling or letting every type of property. Choosing an agent who has experience with homes similar to yours can make a big difference in how effectively they handle the sale.
Ask about:
- Type of property: Have they sold similar homes, whether it’s a flat, detached house, or period property?
- Local area knowledge: Do they have experience selling homes in your specific neighbourhood?
- Recent sales: Ask for examples of properties they’ve recently sold that are comparable to yours.
An agent who knows the local market and your type of property is more likely to attract serious buyers and sell your home for a good price. It’s also worth considering whether you want to go with an online or high street estate agent, as each will have different strengths, and be more suitable for your property.
4. How often will you communicate with me?
Communication is vital when selling or buying a home. You want an agent who will keep you regularly updated and be easy to contact throughout the process.
Things to consider:
- Frequency of updates: How often will they provide updates on viewings, offers, and feedback from potential buyers?
- Preferred communication method: Do they primarily communicate via email, phone, or face-to-face meetings? Make sure their method works for you.
- Point of contact: Will you have a dedicated agent or team managing your property? It’s useful to know who to reach out to if you have questions.
Clear and consistent communication can help reduce stress and keep you informed every step of the way.
5. What’s your approach to handling offers and negotiations?
Negotiating offers is one of the most important parts of the buying or selling process. Your estate agent’s approach can have a direct impact on the final sale price.
Questions to ask:
- Offer presentation: How will they present offers to you? Will they advise on whether an offer is fair or if you should hold out for a better one?
- Negotiation tactics: What is their strategy for negotiating on your behalf? You want an agent who will be proactive in getting you the best deal.
- How long will they wait before negotiating?: Some agents may push for a quick sale, while others are willing to wait for the best offer. Make sure their approach aligns with your goals.
An agent who is skilled in negotiations can make a big difference in getting the best possible outcome for your property.
Final thoughts
Knowing which questions to ask your new estate agent is essential to finding the right fit for your property needs. By covering these five key areas—marketing, fees, experience, communication, and negotiation—you’ll be in a stronger position to choose an agent who can deliver results.
If you’re ready to start your search for a reliable estate agent, begin comparing new estate agents today to find the perfect match for your property sale or purchase.
