🚩 Red Flags 🚩 to Watch Out for When Choosing an Estate Agent
Selling your home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, so choosing the right estate agent is crucial. While it’s tempting to go with the first agent you come across or the one offering the lowest fees, this decision can make or break your sale.
In this 3-minute video, Ben, our MD, highlights some key red flags to watch out for when selecting your estate agent. Here’s a summary to guide you through the process:
1. Subpar Marketing 📸
Your property deserves to stand out, and high-quality marketing is essential. Ask yourself these questions when evaluating an agent’s listings:
• Are the photos crisp, clear, and professional?
Dark, blurry, or poorly framed photos won’t grab buyers’ attention.
• Is there a floorplan? 📐
Buyers love floorplans—they provide a sense of scale and layout that photos alone can’t.
• Does the listing include a 3D tour? 🏠
Virtual tours are increasingly popular, giving buyers a chance to explore your property from the comfort of their home.
• Is there a video that showcases not just the house but the lifestyle? 🎥
A great video should highlight the home, the surrounding area, and the lifestyle it offers. Bonus points for agents who use drone footage to give buyers a bird’s-eye view of the neighbourhood.
If an agent doesn’t provide these essentials, they may not be giving your property the attention it deserves.
2. Poor Responsiveness to Potential Buyers 💬
Securing viewings is the most important factor in selling your home, and if your agent misses opportunities, your sale will suffer.
Mystery shop your agent as a buyer and please, mystery shop Keystone as well!
• Submit an enquiry through Rightmove or another portal and see how quickly they respond.
• Are they polite and proactive, or do they fail to get back to you at all?
If an agent is slow to respond or disorganised when dealing with buyers, it’s a huge red flag. Responsiveness can make the difference between a successful sale and a property sitting on the market for months.
3. Check Their Reviews ⭐
An agent’s reputation speaks volumes about their service. Before signing on the dotted line:
• Look at their reviews on platforms like Google or Facebook.
• Pay attention to patterns in feedback—do clients rave about their communication and professionalism, or are there repeated complaints about poor service?
• If the agent has few or no reviews, ask them directly for references from recent clients.
Reviews not only highlight an agent’s strengths but also give you insight into what you can expect throughout the process.
Why This Matters 💡
Choosing the wrong agent can lead to frustration, delays, and, ultimately, a lower sale price. By focusing on marketing quality, responsiveness, and reputation, you can ensure your property gets the attention it deserves—and that you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you’re considering selling, watch our full video to see these red flags in action and how to avoid them. A little due diligence now can save you a lot of hassle later.
Ready to make your move? 🚪
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