The estate agent's role
In addition to providing help and advice throughout the process of selling your house, an estate agent should at least provide the following services for their fee:
Help with setting an asking price based on their market knowledge
Some of the factors they’ll take into account when helping you set the asking price are the time frame you want to sell your house in and the strength of the property market.
Marketing your property in their shop window and online
Your agent will take pictures of your house and compile a list of property details to put into a standard format for presentation. Remember to point out all the ‘selling points’ of your property that they may fail to notice on their first visit. Most agents will list your property in their windows and brochures and place ads in property magazines or local papers. Most will also have a website with property listings.
Arranging and conducting viewings
Decide and agree up front if you want your agent to arrange and perform the viewings. You may prefer to show potential buyers around your house yourself to point out all its plus points. Most estate agents will be happy to let you conduct your own viewings if you prefer.
Handling the negotiations
Estate agents are professional negotiators and most will have considerable experience of dealing with house purchase negotiations. Having this aspect handled by a third party is usually an advantage and can help you to avoid some of the more stressful parts of selling your home. At the same time, it’s worth remembering that estate agents may have their own reasons for wanting a quick sale – so take your time and don’t allow them to pressurise you into accepting a price you’re not happy with.
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
