SOME USEFUL QUESTIONS TO ASK POTENTIAL AGENTS
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"How much do you charge for sole agency and what is the tie-in period?" 'Sole Agency' means one agent has the exclusive right to sell your property for a set time period. It's the cheapest way to sell your property with an estate agency, and has some major advantages, including: no double listings online, one communication channel, and the price. Be careful though to ensure there isn't a lengthy tie in period that prevents you switching agents if they don't perform, as this is often the case.
"Where and how will your property be marketed?" Find out all the channels your agent will use. At the least they should be marketing your property across both the two biggest U.K. property portals Rightmove and Zoopla. If not, avoid. Also take a good look at their marketing materials. Selling anything at a premium requires perfect presentation across all channels.
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"Should I go with the agent that values my property the highest?" Maybe. As a seller you need to be extremely mindful of estate agencies saying they'll sell your property for big prices. No matter your Zen like qualities you'll find this approach intoxicatingly difficult to resist - and often at your peril. Unscrupulous agents will know that they stand a better chance of winning your business if they say they can get you a higher price. Listing your property at a puncy price will do it no favours, and bizarrely often leads to a lower sale price after the listing has gone stale and marked as 'reduced'. That said if your agent is legitimate and genuinely knows their stuff they may have the price down pat.
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"Who exactly will be selling your property?" Often the experienced agent that comes over to value your house (and pitch their business to you) isn't the actual agent who will be selling your property! Make sure it is, or if not meet the relevant agent and assess their personal experience before signing anything.
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"Who’s running viewings?" Do you have an agent assigned to selling your home, or will there be a different agent showing your property to potential buyers each time? It's important that it's the former. That way potential buyers can have their questions answered properly by somebody that knows your property. Ensure also that they will be available to conduct viewings in evenings and weekends when buyers more frequently available.