There are a number of legislative changes that come into force from August 1st 2007 which affect the home selling process. Rightmove is currently in the process of comprehensively updating our website information to ensure our content is as accurate as possible. Please come back soon to see our brand new Selling Guide.
Most people choose to sell with the assistance of an agent because it is more convenient, and often more effective, than selling privately. Good agents have a wide net of prospective buyers, and know how to promote your home to these eager home hunters. You should select an agent with the following factors in mind:
Cost
Most agents charge between 2-3% commission on the successful sale of your home, but check for hidden extras.
Terms & conditions
Decide whether you want to work with a sole agency, joint sole agency or multiple agency firm before you instruct an agent.
Valuation and price
Make sure you and the agent agree on the value of the house, because he or she will be negotiating on your behalf. Agents who are members of Rightmove.co.uk can help you value your home accurately by using our Best Price Guide. Find a Rightmove agent
Market reach
This is a critical factor in the selection process. You want an agency which can attract the largest pool of prospects for your home. Ask to see how they present properties, where they advertise, and their process for following through leads. Agents who are members of Rightmove.co.uk can list your property on our website, which over 4.9 million home hunters look at every month. Find a Rightmove agent
Reputation
Talk to friends and neighbours who have recently bought or sold in the area, and find out the "inside story" of local estate agency firms.
Service
You want to work with people you like and trust, and have your best interests at heart. Remember, an agent is working for you, so you should interview him or her in the same way you would interview a prospective employee. Be clear on how you expect to communicate with the agent, and kind of service you are looking for.
Regulation
Legally, estate agents are not required to have formal qualifications. They don't need to be part of any recognized professional body, and they don't have to document or support property marketing appraisals. However, reputable agents value their local reputation, do have experience and qualifications, are members of relevant professional bodies and provide evidence to back up their market appraisals.
- The majority of estate agents are members of the Ombudsman Scheme for Estate Agents (OEA), an independent body set up to protect consumers. As of August 1st 2007, all residential estate agents in England and Wales who are marketing homes which require Home Information Packs are required by law to be registered with the OEA for certain aspects of their business.
- The National Association of Estate Agents is a large professional body for estate agents.
- Many estate agents are also members of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.