Whether you’re buying or selling a home, your estate agent plays a crucial role in helping you through the process. Working well with your agent can make everything smoother, quicker, and even help you save money. Sam Timms, an expert at Mather Estates in Stevenage, shares practical advice on how to build a strong partnership with your estate agent and get the best results. If you’re looking for houses to buy in Stevenage and surrounding villages or exploring houses to rent in Stevenage and surrounding villages, these tips are for you.
1. Be Clear About Your Needs
To ensure you get the best results from your agent, start by being clear and upfront about your goals and expectations for the sale. “The more specific you are, the better we can assist you,” Sam explains. Whether you need to sell quickly, achieve a particular price, or highlight specific features of your property, let your agent know. Being open about your priorities and requirements helps your agent focus on attracting the right buyers and positioning your property effectively. They can also help you on a potential purchase, even out of their area, by speaking to the selling agent and providing information.
2. Ask Questions and Stay Informed
Don’t be shy about asking questions—whether it’s about how to make the property more saleable, market trends, or the process itself. Sam notes, “A good agent is there to guide you and answer all your questions, big or small.” If you’re unsure about mortgage options, the cost of surveys, or how competitive the Stevenage market is, your agent should be able to give you the info you need to make confident decisions.
3. Be Available and Responsive
Buying or selling a home often requires quick decisions, so it helps to stay in touch with your agent and respond to calls or messages promptly. “When the market’s moving fast, being responsive can help you secure the best opportunities,” Sam says. This goes both ways; you should expect your agent to keep you updated, too, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you haven’t heard from them in a while.
4. Trust Their Expertise, but Speak Up
Your agent’s knowledge and experience are invaluable, but your insights and preferences are equally important in selling your property. “It’s a partnership,” Sam emphasises. If you feel certain aspects of the listing need adjustment or if you’d like to change the sales strategy, let your agent know. Estate agents like Mather Estates are here to help you achieve the best possible outcome, so a good agent will welcome your feedback and adapt the approach as needed.
5. Take Advantage of Their Local Knowledge
A local estate agent’s in-depth knowledge of the area can be a major advantage when selling your property. Sam suggests, “Discuss nearby schools, transport links, or any new developments in the area with your agent.” This local insight can be particularly useful in attracting buyers interested in the area. If you’re selling in Stevenage, an agent familiar with the area can highlight neighbourhood features that appeal to potential buyers, enhancing your property’s appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your Estate Agent
Knowing what not to do can also help you work well with your agent. Here are three common mistakes to avoid:
- Keeping Your Pricing and Goals Unclear
Some sellers worry about revealing their pricing expectations, but Sam explains, “An agent can help you best when they know your goals.” If you’re vague about your desired sale price or timing, your agent might miss opportunities to target the right buyers. Instead, be upfront about your pricing and timeline, so they can focus on strategies that meet your needs.
- Not Sharing Honest Feedback on Marketing and Viewings
If the way your property is marketed or presented doesn’t meet your expectations, let your agent know. Sam stresses, “The more honest feedback we get, the better we can adjust our approach to reach the right buyers.” By providing clear reasons, like wanting different photos or more emphasis on the garden, your agent can refine the strategy and save you time.
- Expecting Instant Offers
Finding the right buyer can take time, so try to stay patient. “It’s natural to want a quick sale at your ideal price, but a good agent will keep you updated and guide you through the process,” Sam says. Trusting the journey and keeping communication open with your agent can make the wait feel more manageable and effective.
Ready to Make the Most of Your Agent?
Building a solid relationship with your estate agent can make all the difference in starting the moving journey or looking for houses to buy in Stevenage and surrounding villages or exploring houses to rent in Stevenage and surrounding villages. By being clear, open, and responsive, you can help your agent support you every step of the way. Working together, you’ll be better prepared to tackle the market and make the best decisions for your future home.
