How to Choose the Right Estate Agent for Your Home
Thinking about selling your house? The first big decision is which estate agent you’ll trust. A good agent can shave months off the sale and save you cash, while a wrong one can stall the process and drain your wallet. Below are the real‑world steps you can take right now to find a partner who actually works for you.
Check Credentials and Local Track Record
Start with the basics: is the agent licensed and a member of a recognised professional body? In the UK, look for membership of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) or a similar body. Then dive into the agent’s recent sales in your neighbourhood. Ask for a list of homes they’ve sold in the last six months and compare the asking price to the final sale price. If they consistently close deals near the asking price, that’s a solid sign they know the local market.
Understand Fees, Services, and How They Market Your Home
Estate agent fees can range from 0.5% to 3% of the sale price. Some agents offer a low‑cost “limited service” package where you handle viewings yourself; others provide a full‑service deal that includes professional photos, floor‑plans, and online advertising. Ask for a break‑down of what’s included and whether any extra costs—like for premium listings or video tours—will hit you later. A transparent fee structure is a red flag‑free zone.
Next, ask how they plan to market your property. A good agent should have a clear strategy: online portals, social media boosts, targeted email blasts, and local network outreach. If they can name specific platforms and show examples of recent listings, you’ll know they’re not just tossing your home into a generic feed.
Communication style matters, too. Do they reply within a day, or leave you waiting for a week? Test them with a quick email or call and note how fast they respond. Consistent, friendly updates keep you in the loop and reduce stress during negotiations.
Finally, read reviews and ask for references. A handful of five‑star reviews can be cherry‑picked, but a mix of positive and neutral feedback tells you how the agent handles hiccups. Call a recent client and ask two simple questions: “Did they meet the sale timeline?” and “Did they negotiate a fair price?”
By checking credentials, fees, marketing plans, and communication habits, you’ll narrow the field to agents who actually deliver results. Take notes, compare, and trust your gut—if an agent feels rushed or vague, keep looking. The right partner will make your home sale smoother, faster, and more profitable.