Notice I didn’t plump for the word ‘best’ here. It’s a superlative that is as empty and meaningless as trying to decide who the ‘best’ photographer to use for your wedding is, or the ‘best’ tailored suit to wear, the ‘best’ music to listen to. It comes down to style, taste and personal preference. Essentially, much like that tailored suit, the estate agent you choose needs to be the right fit for you.
So, with that in mind, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist to help you figure out which estate agent might be the perfect fit for you. It’s all about finding the agent who will understand your dreams, your reasons behind selling, someone attuned to your aspirations and, crucially, who understands your home and its worth; not just in monetary terms, but in the emotions, memories and lifestyle it offers. Let’s dive in with seven key factors to consider:
When it comes to choosing an estate agent, the first impression counts for a lot. If your agent doesn’t leave you with a positive, confident feeling, it's unlikely they'll inspire the same confidence in potential buyers. Pay attention to how they present themselves, how they communicate with you and the professionalism they bring to the table.
This extends beyond face-to-face meetings; their online presence should reflect the same level of professionalism. If their website or social media feels clunky or unpolished to you, consider this a potential red flag for how they’ll present your home to the market.
Does the way this agent presents (both themself and their agency) feel in harmony with the type of homes they’re trying to sell? Are your values and expectations aligned with theirs? Look for consistency in their approach, whether in how they market properties or how they engage with you. If their style and professionalism match what you’re looking for, chances are that’ll shine through in the way they present your home to buyers too.
The relationship you have with your agent is key. If you don’t feel they’re trustworthy or you just don’t click, it’s important to keep looking. Just like on a first date, trust your instincts! If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
Are they familiar with recent trends, the types of buyers, and property values in your neighbourhood?
It’s not just about knowing the streets and landmarks; a great agent should be up to date on local trends, the types of buyers looking in your area and the current property values. They should know what makes your neighbourhood tick, and this goes beyond being able to reel off the list of top-rated schools, local cafes and transport links. It’s about being able to pinpoint the overall vibe of the community.
This means being a PART of the local community, from cheering on their local sports team through the wind and rain (and goal droughts) to knowing what the traybake of the month is at the newly opened café. They not only KNOW what production is being performed by the primary school this summer, they’re probably sponsoring the costumes. The more they know, the better they can position your home in front of the right buyers.
Do they offer professional photos, immersive video tours, or even premium listings?
A great agent will have a tailored marketing strategy that highlights what makes your home special, showing it off in the best possible light to attract the right buyers.
Nothing is worse than feeling in the dark. When it comes to selling your home, it’s important to feel like you’re always in the know. What strategies does this agent have for keeping you informed at every stage?
An agent who keeps you updated at every stage, listens to your needs, answers your questions, and gives you honest feedback without leaving you guessing is absolutely essential. You want someone who makes the process feel easy and transparent.
It’s not just about the bricks and mortar; the right agent will take the time to understand why your home matters to you.
Whether it's the memories made there or the goals you have for the next chapter, a personal connection is key. When they get your story, they can speak passionately and authentically about your home to potential buyers, making it much more than just another listing.
Understanding the motivations of the seller and nuances of a home means the right agent can tailor their marketing to ensure it stands out to the right buyer.
When it comes to securing the best deal, negotiation skills are crucial. The right agent will not only work tirelessly to achieve the best price for you, but they will also handle tricky situations with finesse.
Look for an agent who is confident, calm under pressure and knows how to leverage the market to your advantage.
Just as important is their experience with homes like yours. An agent who’s successfully sold similar properties in your area will have some valuable insights and know exactly how to handle any curveballs that come up. If they’ve already closed deals on homes with the same vibe or in a similar price range, they’ll be in a great position to guide you through the whole process.
Remember that barista? The one at your local café? The one who remembers your regular order (a flat white with oat milk, extra hot). One day, you're running late and as you walk in, she greets you with a warm smile and says, “I’ve got your usual ready, just how you like it. You’ve got a big meeting today, haven’t you?” She remembers that you mentioned it last time. It’s not a flashy gesture, but it shows she’s paying attention, cares about your routine.
Ok, so perhaps you’re not a coffee drinker, but the sentiment remains: good customer service is all about making an experience feel tailored to you
An agent’s reputation says a lot about the kind of service you can expect. If they’ve got great reviews and happy clients, it’s a good sign they’re reliable, professional and know how to get things done.
Agents who consistently receive positive feedback are the ones who go the extra mile, whether it’s staying in touch, offering top-notch customer care, or making sure your sale goes smoothly. It’s worth doing a bit of research and looking for patterns in the praise they get to see if their approach matches what you need.
Choosing the right estate agent isn’t just about finding someone who can list your property; it’s about finding a partner who truly understands your home, your goals and the journey you’re on.
It’s a relationship built on trust, transparency and shared values. So, take your time, ask the right questions and listen to your instincts. After all, this is your home, and you deserve an agent who values it the same way you do. And we both know, that’s about more than pounds and pence.
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