A potential red flag when selecting an estate agent
Are you getting ready to put your property on the market? You might have already done an online valuation or even booked a few appointments with local estate agents.
During these meetings, you will listen to various sales pitches about what each agent does and how they plan to sell your home. But what exactly should you be looking for, and are there any red flags you should be on high alert to spot?
Most of us have a pretty good radar for a dodgy sales pitch, but there is one specific thing that might sound positive at first but could actually harm your sale.
The Speed Trap
A common selling point used by some agents is how quickly they can get your property advertised online. If an agent tells you they can have your home live on the websites by this evening, your "spidey senses" should be tingling.
Expert marketing, excellent photography, and captivating property descriptions take time to prepare if they are going to be done well. To launch a property correctly, you need:
- High quality images that highlight your home's best features.
- A written description that truly tells the story of the property.
- Accurate floor plans and perhaps even a virtual tour or professional video.
You want the very best images taken of your home by a professional. You do not want photos taken in a rush on a mobile phone without any editing or care for lighting.
Styling and Staging Matter
You should have the opportunity to style and stage your home to showcase the lifestyle it offers. This makes your property much more desirable and encourages more viewings. This simply is not possible if an agent whips a camera out of their pocket and starts snapping away during the initial valuation appointment.
What Should You Expect Instead?
A landmark agent will take the time to prepare everything properly before launching. You should expect:
- Professional Guidance: Advice on styling and staging to make your property stand out.
- Meticulous Photography: Attention to detail regarding angles and lighting to make your home look incredible.
- Captivating Wording: A description that goes beyond a bullet point list of features and actually compels searchers to book a viewing.
Ultimately, the best property marketing cannot be rushed. You are showcasing the inside of your home to the general public, and you want to feel proud of how it looks. A half-baked job will not secure the highest offers for your property.
