We seek the help of an estate agent when we want to sell our house or buy a home. How do we choose the best estate agent for our needs when there are so many options? Here are a few tips on how to choose a reliable estate agent.
Ask family and friends to recommend a company. Word-of-mouth referrals from friends, family or colleagues that have just gone through the process can generate a lot of business. You can ask them who impressed them or who you should avoid! Take a drive or a stroll around the neighbourhood you live in or want to move into and note the signs that say “for sale” and “sold”. You will get a better idea which agents have the best success in your area.
You can tell if a company is a member of reputable professional organisations by their membership. They are bound to strict codes of conduct. It is a sign that the business has high standards of professionalism, knowledge and customer service. These professional organisations include:
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
- Guild of Property Professionals
- National Association of Estate Agents
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After you’ve narrowed your list down, it is best to visit the office of the agent. It’s important to get to know the people you are talking to, and to have a good feel for the company. Is the office professionally run? Are you welcomed?
If you are selling your home, contact at least three agents to value it. You may be tempted to go with the highest price, but it might just be to get your business. You want an honest and fair appraisal, which is why you should get three different valuations.
