Whether you are looking to sell or rent your property the assistance of a good (and I must emphasize the word GOOD) Estate Agent is money well spent. Breaking it down into areas this is why:
Advertising
For starters, if the agent isn’t successful there is usually nothing to pay! If you wanted to try and market your property to the same exposure of even a small independent company like mine you would have to spend hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds with no guaranteed result. Check out just some of the places we advertise at: http://www.baseps.co.uk/custom_page.php?page=landlords.php
Negotiation
Many people, especially us Brits, don’t like and are therefore no good at negotiating terms and money. Far too often we are too soft or take things too personally. Having a third party represent your best interests in this nature is excellent. Remember, if they bring you an offer it is just that- if you are not happy get them to improve it. After all that is all part of what you are paying for.
Legalities
Good agents will know what can and cannot be said or done regarding your property and (unless offering inaccurate information provided by you) will be the legally responsible party if breached. In sales, they will also know how to progress a sale and motivate solicitors to progress matters more quickly. For lettings your fee should include the provision of a company standard tenancy agreement (usually an Assured Shorthold Tenancy). To find out more about the services we offer visit the Landlord or Vendor pages at www.baseps.co.uk
Advice
All good agents should be available to answer your questions, fears, problems, etc. Property can be a daunting and stressful experience and it is good to actually have some one ‘on your side’ who is there to confide in when you need. Just do remember- they have other clients too!
The only way I can see it viable to ‘go it alone’ is if you are a medium to large private Landlord or Developer where the sheer scale of transactions can enable you to save over the whole portfolio and a number of years. However, even then, if you approach an established independent company you should be able to negotiate strong terms and (possibly) even a tailor made service saving you the headache of all that admin! Why not give us a call on 020 7033 1901?
