Choosing the right estate agent is critical to the successful sale of your property. However, with so many to choose from selecting an agent can feel like an overwhelming task. John Leeson from Belgarum Estate Agents Limited provides the essential estate agent criteria to help ease your moving process.

John says: “There are three key areas that all professional estate agents should excel in: expert knowledge, reliable support and marketing. We’ve provided a break-down of these aspects so you can select the right agent to sell your home.

“Strong knowledge of the local area and property market is crucial for the accurate valuation and, ultimately, the sale of your property. Pitch the price too high and your property may compare unfavourably with others; too low and buyers may question its appeal. Be wary of estate agents who over-value property to win business. The value of your home is determined by its size, location, supply and demand and the current local and national property market. You need an estate agent who takes all these into consideration so your home sells to the right buyer in the shortest time.

“Moving home is considered one of the most stressful and emotional periods in life. It’s advised to choose an estate agent who will oversee the whole process to remove the pressures of moving home. Remember to ask your agent how they manage their chains and conveyancing all the way through to final completion.

“Finding an estate agent you trust can feel like a challenge, especially when you aren’t sure what to look for. The industry is relatively unregulated, so it’s a good idea to choose an estate agent with qualifications. As members of The Guild of Professional Estate Agents, we have access to additional training. This ensures all our staff are kept up to date with the latest regulations and best practice. As a general rule of thumb, you should always look for estate agents who are members of at least one industry body. These include The Guild of Professional Estate Agents, the Property Ombudsman and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

“Finally, always ask your estate agents how they will market your home. Presenting your property in its best light in printed material and online is crucial to finding your buyers. Good estate agents understand what appeals to buyers and which tools they need to employ. Ask your agents how they would market your property and consider choosing the estate agent whose tools most grab your attention.

“Buyers are now much more informed and more intelligent than ever before and usually begin their search on national search portals. Remember to ask your estate agents which portals they use to ensure your property gains necessary exposure. We know that not all your potential buyers will be from the local area. As Members of The Guild, we also have access to the lucrative London and overseas investor market through a National Property Centre on Park Lane.

“Selling your home can be a stressful experience and handing your sale over to an estate agent can feel unsettling. Asking all these questions will ensure you choose the estate agent who will help your moving process run smoothly.”

Belgarum is an independent estate agent founded in 1989 in Winchester. Specialising in the sale and letting of a variety of properties within the city and surrounding areas, Belgarum’s focus has been the application of local knowledge, employing quality staff, understanding the local history and areas and using this information to promote Winchester and the properties the agency represents John and his team can be contacted on 01962 844460.