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The property market can be a fast-paced and confusing world, so having a good agent on your side can help you navigate its complexities. Finding the right agent is crucial to the outcome of your sale, so to ensure that you make an informed decision, it’s worth asking questions.

 

Here are 10 questions you could ask your estate agent and consider before committing to working with them.

Consider the experience your agent has in the local market, as they should be able to provide local market insights such as trends, values and any potential challenges. It might be tempting but don’t just settle for the cheaper option as an experienced agent is much better equipped to help you navigate the intricacies of sales in your specific area.

Reputable agents are proud of their client testimonials and references, so they will be more than happy to share them with you. Customer feedback can give you valuable insight into any business’ reputation, so don’t hesitate to ask for this information or check the customer ratings online, even from Google reviews.

When the market is competitive, a robust marketing strategy is what will make your home stand out to potential buyers. Make sure to enquire about the agent’s approach to marketing, including both online and offline channels, professional photography, and any unique strategies they might use to showcase your property effectively.

Receiving a professional valuation is one of the most important steps to selling your home, so you’ll need to know that your agent has a solid and reliable strategy. A good agent will consider a multitude of factors, such as recent sales in the area, the condition and appearance of the property, and current market demand. Using this information to paint a full and accurate picture ensures that your property is competitively priced. The Durden & Hunt teams offer free, no obligation valuations to help determine the price of your property and how that may impact your plans.

While selling ‘as-is’ is sometimes a viable option, an agent will be able to assess your home during your valuation and advise you on any necessary repairs or additions. Ask your agent whether your home is ready for the market, or if it could benefit from a spruce-up.

The key to any successful partnership is effective communication, so make sure to discuss your preferred mode of communication with your agent. Whether it’s emails, phone calls, or face-to-face meetings, setting your expectations early on will help to avoid any misunderstandings. We offer a weekly vendor care call to check in with our sellers, their current strategy and any viewings and offers received.

Knowing the average time it takes to sell a home in your area will help you manage your expectations and form a realistic plan. It's not an exact science but it gives you an idea of how efficiently properties in your location sell.

Every home is unique, but some fall into specific categories which require the careful handling of an expert, so it is worth discussing the agent’s proposed strategy and experience selling similar properties. This experience can be invaluable when it comes to finding the right buyer and selling for the right price.

The skill of negotiation is a crucial one in all areas of the property market; so you could ask your agent about their approach to negotiations and how they plan to secure the best deal for you, while also maintaining a positive relationship with potential buyers.

Lastly, it’s important to ask your agent about what their strategy will be if your property doesn’t sell within an initial timeframe. Whether it involves re-evaluating the marketing plan or adjusting the pricing strategy, having an adaptable strategy shows that your agent is prepared for any curve balls, allowing you peace of mind throughout your sales journey.

 

Written by Durden and Hunt Director, James Hunt

 

Loughton Estate Agent, Hornchurch Estate Agent, Ongar Estate Agent, Wanstead Estate Agent, Canary Wharf Estate Agent