Whether you’re buying or selling, renting or letting, there’s now more choice of agents than ever, from online property portals to web-based estate agents and more – plus there’s access to seemingly limitless information. Meanwhile, national chains of geographical estate agents have expanded considerably.
Deciding which operator to partner with is one of the most vital decisions you’ll make for your property transaction. But, despite all the varied competition, there are many reasons why local, independent agents remain your best option. Here’s why:
1.) Local knowledge
High Street operators usually offer a deeper, more extensive understanding of any given local property market than a chain. What’s more, they have excellent contacts across the sector locally, and so are likely to hear about new developments before anyone else. This network of contacts extends to solicitors, potential purchasers and vendors, other agents, mortgage brokers and others.
Therefore, if you’re looking to know all about a particular neighbourhood and its facilities, from school Ofsted ratings to crime rates and nearby GP surgeries, buses and more, you’ll want to speak to a locally based agent. Equally, they’ll understand regulations and by-laws for their area, plus the local planning authority, which again could significantly affect your decision. This reduces the potential risk of legal issues or disputes, helping to protect your investment and interests.
You can benefit from this knowledge and make an informed decision based on your own needs and preferences.
2.) A personal service
Independent agents build their reputation on quality of service, and so take the time to appreciate in detail each client’s individual requirements. They’ll focus on helping customers to see the transaction through to the end to their satisfaction. A larger chain often makes use of automated or online services which may save time, but won’t do very much to give the process a personal feel, with guidance every step of the way with personalised, hands-on support. Clearly, this really matters with one of the biggest transactions and investments you’re ever likely to make.
3.) Flexibility
National chains frequently follow the same fixed procedures and processes for every customer, or may have to meet particular sales targets. This might help them, but won’t necessarily help you to get the price for your property you want, or the dream new home you’re seeking.
For their part, independent operators can typically decide things more quickly and flexibly which, more often than not, works to the customer’s advantage.
4.) How the money works out
If a house doesn’t sell, an independent agent doesn’t get their money. This can be a powerful incentive in ensuring the transaction does indeed happen. While online agents may charge less in the first instance, if the house doesn’t sell then you’ll have spent that money for nothing.
So, in the long term, choosing to go with a local independent can work out to be the most cost-effective option.
Carter & May – the local, independent estate agent for Salisbury and around
Carter & May is the leading agent for Salisbury city centre plus the surrounding areas, including the New Forest, Amesbury, Ringwood and Fordingbridge. We have extensive experience and knowledge of our part of the world, and all of us love living here ourselves. What’s more, our expertise has garnered us a slew of industry awards.
Whatever your situation, whether you’re a first-time buyer or an old hand, we’re here to help with our highly tailored approach. Learn more about the way we do renting, letting, buying and selling – and get in touch today for an initial conversation or book a valuation.