02 Nov How to change agents

When you initially select your agent, you do so because you believe that they are the best people to sell your house (or occasionally because they are the cheapest!) However, for any number of reasons the relationship may just not be working out. Is it me, is it them, is it the market?

 
If you find yourself in any of the following situations, it is a natural progression to consider making the change:

• Lack of communication
• No viewings
• Pressure to reduce the price

 
You may simply just be ready for a change, but you need to consider a number of factors before making the decision and we are here to help you along the way:

1. Use facts to help you decide
   Use the numbers to help you decide, how many viewings have you had over the period? How do these numbers compare to other properties on your agent’s books? Are other properties similar to your getting offers of is it the market? Ask your agent to share their online stats (if they are not doing this as a matter of course), is interest declining?
2. Check your contract
   Make sure you know what you have signed up to, so that you don’t get yourself in a legal position or have to pay for a service you are no longer receiving. Check you tie-in period, some are 8-12 weeks, some are even longer, some (but not many) are tie-in free.
3. Research other agents
   Ask friends and family – often the best source for personal recommendations. A number of local online pages have appeared during lockdown, so put your request on these and await their response.Check out online reviews and look at how agents market similar properties in your area. Do you like their photographs? Do they have a floor plan and offer a virtual tour/video walk through
4. Mystery Shop
   Select a property that your potential agent is offering for sale. How do they take your call? Are they efficient, personable, enthusiastic and take all of the necessary details? How they deal with you is how they will deal with your potential viewers/buyers.
   Try to contact them out of normal office hours and weekends. How long does it take for them to respond to your request.
5. Invite them for a valuation
   For those you feel most comfortable with, the best way to understand their total offering is to invite them to your house (or virtually if you feel more comfortable with this).How they come across is very important as this is also the impression your viewers will get. You also need to be confident in how they offer their valuation? How have they come to that decision? What do they think of the current market? What is their view on why you have not received the necessary viewings/offers so far? Are you happy with their track record and their fee? Do they offer advice on the best way to prepare your house for sale (prepare for honesty!)

 
Once you take all of the above into consideration, you should be in a very good place to make your informed decision. If you are considering switching agents, we would love to hear from you to help steer you through the process.

Contact us on 0151 648 1397 or email WestWirral@LocalAgent.co.uk