Selling your home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, both financially and personally. That’s why choosing the right estate agent is so important.
The right estate agent can make your move smooth, stress-free and successful. The wrong one? It can leave you frustrated, out of pocket and stuck in limbo. Here’s our guide to the red flags you should avoid when choosing an estate agent and what makes a great one.
What makes a great estate agent?
Before we take a look at the warning signs, it helps to know what you should be looking for. A great estate agent will:
- Have expertise of the local market. From school catchment areas to commuter links, they understand what drives value in your area.
- Be honest and transparent. No jargon, no hidden fees – just clear advice.
- Market your home properly. Professional photos, detailed floor plans and effective online listings are a must.
- Negotiate on your behalf. They should be skilled at securing the best price for your property, not just the fastest sale.
- Keep you updated. A great estate agent doesn’t wait for you to call them, they’re proactive.
If your estate agent ticks these boxes, you’re off to a strong start. Here are some top tips for choosing the right estate agent in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Red flags to avoid when choosing an estate agent
Unfortunately, not every estate agent delivers on their promises. Here are some of the most common warning signs to watch out for:
- Unrealistic valuations
If an estate agent promises you a sky-high asking price compared to others, be cautious. Some inflate valuations to win your instruction. But the problem is that your home may linger on the market, buyers lose interest, and you may have to reduce the price later on. This approach often means you end up with a lower price than you could have achieved with a realistic valuation from the start.
- Poor communication
If an estate agent doesn’t answer your calls or offers you vague updates, it’s a big red flag. A trustworthy estate agent will keep you informed at every step of the way, from viewings to negotiations, so you never feel out of the loop.
- Hidden referral fees
Some estate agents accept financial incentives from solicitors or mortgage brokers without telling you. This means the advice they give you may not be truly independent or in your best interest. At Follwells, we never take referral fees – we prioritise unbiased advice.
- Lack of local presence
Online-only estate agents or national chains may look appealing but if they don’t have strong knowledge of your local area, you may lose out. Local independent estate agents often have better buyer lists, community ties and a more accurate sense of pricing. When it comes to selling property, local knowledge is power.
Read the top 3 benefits of using an independent estate agent to sell your home here.
- Poor chain management
Agreeing a sale isn’t the finish line. Chains need managing, buyers need vetting and solicitors need chasing. And all of these should be done by your estate agent. When choosing an estate agent, look for a proven track record in keeping transactions on track right through to completion.
So, how do you know if you’re choosing wisely? A few ways to protect yourself is by checking customer reviews, reading the small print on contracts and trusting your instincts. You should also check if the estate agent is a member of professional bodies such as the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) or RICS.
We know that sometimes you want to move home right away once you’ve made this decision. But try not to rush into choosing an estate agent. By spotting these red flags and focusing on the qualities that matter, you’ll put yourself in the best position for a successful move.
If you’re thinking of selling in Newcastle-under-Lyme or the surrounding area, our friendly team at Follwells is here to help on 01782 615530. We’ll give you open, honest advice and a free valuation to get your next chapter on the move.
