One of the biggest perceived problems when moving home is working with Estate Agents.  Agents are not all the same, and if selling you must make sure you spend time researching which agents are best to sell your property – or indeed buy through.

If you are selling, find the agents who have similar properties on their books.  Treat with suspicion estate agents who have many properties for sale, but few sold.  They are likely to be over-pricing properties to get instructions. Ask three agents who have sold properties similar to yours in your area. Ask them for three prices:-

1. A marketing price
2. A price to sell the property in 4-6 weeks
3. A quick sale price (normally two weeks)

 

Then find out who can offer the best service. Ideally find an agent that has someone in the office who will ‘progress the sale’ once you have received an offer. 

When buying, make sure you discuss your needs and wants with the agent, including the amount of money you have to spend and be specific about the type of property you want.  Give feedback to the agent - good or bad - so they get a better understanding of what to show you in the future.