For most people, buying or selling a home is a time-consuming, sometimes stressful and potentially daunting task.
The average Brit these days moves approximately every 20 years, according to housing analyst Hometrack, so this doesn't give you too many times to get it right.
Most sellers look to employ some type of Estate Agent when they have decided to sell their property.
But what sort of agent should you partner with? These days, as with most consumer sectors, there are plenty of different types of estate agent and there is more choice than ever before.
Some agents charge less but do not get particularly involved in the sale, while more traditional agents – the ones you see on your high street – are likely to provide a full and customer-focused service.
A study recently carried out by a property software firm found that despite numerous agencies basing their offering on price, it is customer service that remains the public's number one priority when it comes to choosing an estate agent.
The figures
- 82% of consumers prefer to have a personal agent who manages the whole process
- 72% of consumers relied on estate agents' conveyancing expertise
- 62% of consumers tasked estate agents with arranging viewings and inspecting properties
- 58% of consumers want life-long relationships with estate agents
(Figures taken from third-party research conducted by Loudhouse on behalf of Dezrez. 1,000 respondents were surveyed between February and March 2016.)
Why is a local estate agent so important?
If a property transaction becomes stressful or complicated – an experienced estate agent is there to offer you sound advice. Local agents are likely to have come across the majority of scenarios before, so they'll be well placed to offer you valuable guidance.
When it comes to working with estate agents, communication really is key. Feeling like you're 'in the dark' can be one of the most frustrating things during a property transaction. Therefore, an agency with a clear and prompt communication policy could be worth its weight in gold.
It's no secret that much of the modern-day consumer's work and research is now done online, but that doesn't mean face-to-face service is no longer important.
In fact, agents with knowledge of the local market can help sellers to achieve a higher asking price, while helping buyers to find their perfect home.
Here at Kings Group, we place ourselves in the category of a local estate agency which prides itself on exemplary customer service and exceptional communication skills.
At a time when the cost of moving continues to increase, and competition is higher than ever before, it's so important to pick an estate agency which focuses on customer service rather than price.
If you would like further guidance on buying or selling a property in Waltham Forest, we would be delighted to help.
You can get in touch with us on Twitter (@KingsGroupLLP), Facebook (facebook.com/KingsGroupLLP) or call Kings Group Walthamstow’s Branch Manager, Bryn Nettle, on 020 8521 1122.
