The Valuation Appointment
Although usually referred to as a “Valuation” this is also a platform for the estate agents that you have contacted to showcase their services. It is unwise to choose an agent simply because they have given you the highest valuation figure. You are looking for an agent that has the knowledge to give you the correct valuation and the expertise to do the best job of selling your property.
Most agents will kick off by having a look around the property although it is probably a good idea for you to start the appointment with a brief chat about the purpose of their visit. Is it early stages for you? Are you looking for some advice about alterations to make before selling? This is the time to let the agent know.
When it is time for the agent to view the property it is best to leave them to it if you can. If you follow them closely they will feel the need to make small talk with you rather than spend the time thinking about the value of your home. Many agents will take measurements at this stage, not because they need them for the particulars (that would be presumptuous) but because it helps them to get a feel for the size of the property and slows the visit down; giving them more thinking time.
Once the agent has had a good look around they should be able to give you their opinion on the value of the property and the best asking price.
Next comes the boring part, as many agents will then launch in to a pre-prepared presentation about the benefits of selling your property through them. Your interest will probably begin to wane at this point as you already have the first key piece of information, the value, and you are waiting for the second, the commission. I would recommend that you interrupt regularly with questions specific to your own circumstances and see how confidently they address your concerns when you force them off script. This will help you to form an opinion of the agent.
Do they have the experience and flexibility to tailor their service to suit your needs? For instance, if you are keen on a quick sale how they will try and arrange this; perhaps by initially targeting chain free buyers.
Many agents will finish the appointment by trying to get you to sign up there and then. However impressed you are you should avoid this. You have nothing to lose by thinking about it overnight and making you decision the next day.
Perhaps one of the most important issues is how comfortable you would feel working with this person and their company. Even the quickest of sales is likely to take a few weeks so you want an agent that you can get along with.