Most estate agents make similar claims about their ability to secure the highest possible price, in the shortest possible time, with the least possible inconvenience.
But in spite of these things being easy to say, in reality many agents do not always find them easy to deliver. Indeed, such claims set a level of expectation that can sometimes be followed by disappointment. But thinking aloud, who would blame them! It’s how things were often always done so why be any different? If I had a pound for every time I heard that I’d be a very wealthy man and I firmly believe that you, the customer, deserves a different approach. An honest, market led valuation of your property. No gimmicks, no flannel, just a straightforward and realistic discussion.
To add insult to injury, most agents also expect you to sign up for a long period of sole agency with them. Whilst there is no doubt that a sole agency is far preferable to asking two agents to market your property, particularly in terms of accountability and, crucially, communication, many agents insist on a sole agency tie-in period of 8, 12, 16 or even 26-weeks! Our question is …why?
In our opinion, a long period of sole agency suggests a lack of confidence on the agent’s part, and it’s a way of preventing the seller from sacking them if they fail to deliver! What sort of accountability is that?! It means that the agent can say whatever the seller wants to hear in order to secure the property on their books, and then wait for the property to sell itself. Indeed, some agents take on properties under a long-term sole agency agreement, only to recommend a price reduction shortly after the initial marketing period. Sole agency periods protect agents not sellers! If an agent is confident in his/her advice, and is able to work in partnership with you, the client, in terms of positioning your house/property in line with the market, a long term sole agency contract, or a contract that ties you in and potentially costs you to exit, should simply not be necessary. Contracts that cost the seller to exit are also, in my opinion, a very dated way of conducting business. Sellers should settle their fees on results!
We are breaking the mould in this area, as we believe property sellers deserve better. We feel that if, at any time, you no longer enjoy working with us, you should have the right to disinstruct us! Many agents want to hold onto a listing for as long as possible. Historically, we asked for 28 days (four weeks) notice to terminate an agency contract. No, I’m pleased to advise that we simply ask for two weeks’ notice and we find that our clients really appreciate this transparent approach. It certainly keeps us on our toes, and ensures you get the commitment we promise at the outset.
Why not call us on 645555 for a chat?
Tim Groves
Black Grace Cowley
