How to Choose the Best Value Estate Agent

What’s the difference between a traditional estate agent and a DIY fixed-fee agency?

• DIY agencies offer a pared-back service and often charge a flat, upfront fee. The seller often handles things like viewings themselves.

• Traditional agents charge a commission on the price the property sells for and usually handle the photography, social media, advertising, floorplans, viewings and negotiations.

Here are a few things to consider before you decide which option to go for.

Motivation

It’s in a traditional agent’s interests to work hard, negotiate a good price and shepherd the deal through to completion, as they only get paid if your property sells.

If you pay an agent a flat upfront fee (usually non-refundable), how motivated will they be to secure a sale? It makes no difference to them whether you achieve the asking price, drop the price significantly or don’t sell at all.

Service

It’s wise to check the terms of any contract you sign so you understand exactly what services an agent will provide.

It’s also worth considering your options if you’re unhappy with the level of service you receive. If you go with a traditional agent on a limited tie-in, it’s in their interest to provide a good service because they won’t want you to take your custom elsewhere.

But what if you’ve paid upfront and are unhappy with the service? Is your money lost?

Costs

The flat fee you pay with a DIY agency is usually lower than what you’d pay in commission. So technically, the amount you fork out to an agent will be less if you go down the DIY route.

However, if a full-service agent can secure a higher price for your property than a DIY agent would, they might offer better value. You might be paying more in agent fees, but the amount of money in your pocket after the sale goes through will also be higher.

For a free property valuation, contact us here at JC Property today.

01724487297

info@jc-property.co.uk