Home Improvement

The art of selling your property is a challenging one, and there are many things you will need to take into consideration. One of the most important factors is the estate agent you choose. You must pick an estate agent with a great deal of experience and knowledge of the area in which you are looking to sell. To help you in this difficult decision, we have put together some helpful tips on choosing the right estate agent.

The right estate agent can do wonders for your property and your pocket. You need an estate agent who's as motivated as you are to sell your home; it's not just about their commission or how well they can advertise your home. You need someone who's dedicated to getting the best price in the shortest time, so you don't have to be tied to one place any longer than you have to be.

The first thing to consider is which area of the country you want your home to be sold in. If you can't be bothered with this decision, then go with what your estate agent thinks is best. It's important that your chosen agency has experience with the market you are selling in.

Start with a recommendation

If you're looking for an estate agent, start by asking friends and family for recommendations. Word of mouth is still one of the best ways to find a good professional. If a friend or family member has recently sold their home, they should be able to recommend an estate agent that they used successfully.

Check online reviews

Once you have a handful of referrals, start doing some research online. Most estate agents and letting agents have their own websites which can tell you all about the services they offer, and any testimonials from previous clients. Use Google, Facebook and Twitter to see if they are active on social media and if they have any reviews on these pages too. You may also be able to find out how long they have been in business as this could be a good indicator of experience.

Here are some questions to ask when looking for a reputable estate agent:

What are your qualifications? Ask how long they have been in business and how many homes they have sold. Questions such as these can give you an idea of their experience and credibility.

How will you market my home? Home buyers use a variety of resources when looking for homes to buy, so make sure that your home is included in all of them. An experienced agent will know all the right sources.

What are your fees? Most agents charge a commission, usually 6 percent of the sales price. This can be negotiable depending on how much work the agent does on your behalf. Also ask if there are any additional fees associated with marketing or showing your home to prospective buyers. You may also be required to pay for advertising and other promotional materials. Your agent should give you an estimate before you agree to work together.