Choosing an Estate Agent? Start With These 5 Questions – Part One

Choosing an estate agent isn’t just about who gives you the highest valuation or the lowest fee.

It’s about who you trust to guide one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make.

Too often, sellers choose based on first impressions, persuasive pitches, or unrealistic valuations that sound appealing at the time. But once your property is on the market, the reality of how that agent works becomes clear.

A better approach is to ask the right questions from the outset.

Here are five (from ten we recommend) that will help you separate a polished pitch from a well-thought-out strategy.

1. How will you ensure I achieve the best price for my home?

A high valuation can feel reassuring, but it doesn’t guarantee a strong result.

Ask how the agent measures success. What percentage of the asking price do they typically achieve? How do they handle negotiations when offers come in?

A strong agent will focus on evidence, consistency, and negotiation, not simply quoting a high number or low fees to win your instruction.

• What do your first four weeks of marketing look like?

This isn’t about rushing your sale. It’s about understanding whether the agent has a clear and repeatable process.

Ask how they structure the first few weeks, how they generate early interest, and what they do if activity slows down.

A well-prepared agent will talk you through this confidently. Without that structure, you risk your property sitting on the market without direction.

• What kind of contract will I be tied into?

Some agents require long tie-in periods, which can leave you stuck if things don’t go to plan.

Ask whether the agreement is flexible and what options you have if you’re not satisfied with the service.

A confident agent relies on results to keep you, not a lengthy contract.

• Who will actually handle my sale once I’ve signed?

The person who values your home isn’t always the one who manages your sale.

Ask who will conduct viewings, negotiate offers, and keep you updated. You want clarity and consistency, not a handover to someone who doesn’t fully understand your property or your situation.

• What happens if a buyer isn’t ready to proceed?

For example, if your buyer still needs to sell their own home, your sale could be delayed or even fall through.

Ask your agent how they handle this. Do they check how serious and proceedable a buyer is before accepting an offer? Do they keep backup buyers in play just in case?

A good agent won’t just agree to any offer. They’ll help you choose a buyer who is in the best position to move forward, reducing the risk to your sale.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right estate agent is about more than a good first impression.

By asking these questions and listening carefully to the answers, you’ll quickly see who has a structured, professional approach and who relies more on sales talk.

Next week, we’ll share five more questions to help you choose with even greater confidence.

If you’re thinking of selling and would like straightforward advice, we’re always happy to help.

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We are proud members of the Ethical Agent Network (EAN), a national group of independent agents who are independently assessed against strict standards of honesty, service, professionalism and community care.

To learn more about what we do, why we passed the EAN test, and why we are the only local agency in the network, contact us today. #AgentsYouCanTrust

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