Best Estate Agents: Questions to Ask Your Estate Agent Before Hiring

Choosing the right estate agent can make a world of difference when buying or selling a property. With so many options available, how do you identify the best estate agents to help you achieve your property goals? Whether you’re looking for a local estate agent or an estate agent near you, asking the right questions can help you make an informed decision.

In this guide, we’ll cover essential questions to ask potential estate agents before hiring them, ensuring you find the perfect partner for your property journey.

1. How Well Do You Know the Local Area?

One of the most important factors when hiring an estate agent is their knowledge of the local area. A local estate agent with in-depth expertise can provide valuable insights into the property market, including recent sales, buyer preferences, and pricing trends.

Ask questions such as:

• Which areas do you specialise in?
• How many properties have you sold in this neighbourhood recently?
• What makes this area attractive to buyers?

The best estate agents will demonstrate a strong understanding of the area and be able to explain how this knowledge will benefit your sale or purchase.

2. What is Your Track Record?

Experience and a solid track record are key indicators of a reliable estate agent. Ask about their success rate and experience with properties similar to yours. For instance:

• How many homes like mine have you sold in the past year?
• What was the average time it took to sell these properties?
• Can you share any success stories or references from previous clients?

Top-performing agents will be happy to provide case studies or client testimonials that highlight their achievements.

3. What is Your Marketing Strategy?

Effective marketing is crucial for selling a property quickly and at the best price. A great estate agent near you will have a comprehensive plan to showcase your home to potential buyers. Key questions to ask include:

• How will you market my property?
• Will you use professional photography or virtual tours?
• On which platforms will my property be advertised?

The best estate agents will leverage online property portals like Rightmove and Zoopla, as well as social media and traditional methods, to ensure your property reaches the widest audience.

4. How Do You Determine the Asking Price?

Accurately pricing a property is critical to attracting buyers and achieving a successful sale. A skilled estate agent will base their valuation on comparable sales, current market trends, and the unique features of your property.

Ask:

• How do you arrive at the suggested asking price?
• Can you provide examples of similar properties and their sale prices?
• What is your strategy if the property doesn’t sell quickly?

A local estate agent with experience in your area will be able to justify their valuation and provide a realistic pricing strategy.

5. What Are Your Fees and Are There Any Additional Costs?

Understanding estate agent fees upfront is essential to avoid unexpected expenses. While the cost of hiring an agent is important, it’s equally crucial to assess the value they provide. Key questions to ask include:

• What is your commission rate or fee structure?
• Are there additional costs for marketing, photography, or EPCs?
• Are your fees negotiable?

The best estate agents will be transparent about their fees and ensure you know exactly what you’re paying for.

6. How Will You Communicate With Me?

Clear communication is key to a successful relationship with your estate agent. Whether you prefer regular updates or only want to be contacted when necessary, it’s important to find an agent who aligns with your expectations.

Ask:

• How often will you update me on progress?
• What is your preferred method of communication?
• Will I have a dedicated point of contact?

Top estate agents will prioritise keeping you informed throughout the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

7. How Do You Handle Viewings?

Managing viewings effectively is a vital part of selling a property. The way an agent handles viewings can significantly impact buyers’ impressions and the overall sale process.

Ask:

• Will you accompany all viewings, or do I need to be present?
• How do you qualify potential buyers?
• Do you provide feedback after viewings?

The best estate agents will ensure viewings are well-organised and provide detailed feedback to help you adjust your strategy if necessary.

8. What Sets You Apart From Other Estate Agents?

This question gives the agent a chance to highlight their unique selling points. Look for answers that demonstrate their expertise, dedication, and commitment to delivering results. The best estate agents will confidently explain what makes them stand out, whether it’s their local knowledge, innovative marketing strategies, or excellent customer service.

9. How Long Will My Contract Be?

Understanding the terms of your agreement is vital before signing a contract. Some estate agents require exclusive agreements for a set period, while others may offer more flexibility.

Ask:

• How long is the contract, and is there a notice period?
• Can I switch agents if I’m unhappy with the service?
• Are there any penalties for ending the agreement early?

The best estate agents will provide clear terms and ensure you feel comfortable with the arrangement.

10. What Happens If My Property Doesn’t Sell?

While no seller wants to think about this possibility, it’s important to be prepared. Ask your estate agent about their strategy if the property doesn’t sell within a reasonable timeframe:

• Will you adjust the marketing plan or asking price?
• Do you have a plan to re-engage potential buyers?
• What options do I have if the property remains unsold?

A proactive agent will have a contingency plan to address any challenges and keep the process moving forward.

Finding the Best Estate Agents

Choosing the right estate agent is one of the most important decisions when buying or selling a property. By asking these key questions, you can identify the best estate agents who offer the expertise, service, and transparency you need. A reliable local estate agent with a deep understanding of your area can make the entire process smoother and more successful. One of the best things you can do before getting in contact with an estate agent, is read their online reviews. This will be a great indicator of how their clients view their service. Check out our reviews on Trustpilot.