When you’re buying or selling a property, the right estate agent can save you weeks of stress and thousands of pounds. But the market is full of agents who promise the world and deliver little. Below you’ll get straight‑forward tips that cut through the hype, help you pick a trustworthy professional, and keep the whole process moving smoothly.
Start by checking a few basics. Look for an agent who specializes in the type of property you’re interested in – a city flat, a suburban family home, or a rental portfolio. Ask for recent sales or lettings that match your goal and verify the numbers yourself on the agency’s website or a trusted portal.
Next, schedule a short interview. Good agents are happy to answer questions like:
Take note of how promptly they reply to emails or calls. An agent who takes three days to answer a simple query probably won’t be on top of negotiations either.
Red flags include vague answers, pressure to sign an exclusive deal right away, or a refusal to show you a list of recent client references. Trust your gut – if something feels off, keep looking.
Once you’ve hired an agent, clear communication is key. Set expectations early: tell the agent how often you want updates, whether you prefer text, email, or phone calls, and the best times to reach you.
When reviewing offers or buyer feedback, ask the agent to break down the numbers. A simple spreadsheet showing price, contingencies, and deadline helps you compare options without guesswork.
If you need to decline a property or a buyer, do it politely but firmly. A useful script is: “Thanks for the showing, but this home doesn’t meet my criteria right now. I’ll keep you posted if anything changes.” This keeps the relationship professional and leaves the door open for future opportunities.
Negotiation is where many agents add value. Ask them to explain their strategy before making a counter‑offer. A good agent will outline why a lower price makes sense or how a quick closing could benefit the seller, turning raw numbers into a compelling story.
Finally, keep records. Save every email, note down phone conversations, and request written confirmations for any changes to the price or contract terms. Having a paper trail protects both you and the agent if disagreements pop up later.
These tips are the backbone of a smooth property journey. By picking an agent who matches your market, asking the right questions, and staying on top of communication, you’ll avoid common headaches and move closer to your dream home or a quick sale.
Explore the full list of articles on this page for deeper dives into topics like "How to Choose a Good Estate Agent," "How to Politely Tell a Real Estate Agent You’re Not Interested," and "Red Flags to Watch for When Interviewing Agents." Each post gives step‑by‑step guidance that you can start using today.
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