First time seller - things to look out for when choosing EA

[Housingdestressnotdistress]

Asking for a first time seller in the process of choosing an estate agent for a Chain free sale

what are the things you should look out for/ any EA tricks/ important things that are often overlooked etc?

any help would be appreciated
thanks

Get the Google Chrome add on for Rightmove. You can then see what houses were originally put on for, and what reductions they've had since. Lots of the big EAs will try and win you over with a high valuation, and then pressure you to reduce it in order to sell. Look at the sold prices they achieve as well as asking prices. Also look at how long houses stick around for them without selling.

You should be paying 1-1.5% commission, no more than that, and good quality photography should be included and not extra.

Get recommendations from locals if you can.

Try and choose one that can't pressure you into using their mortgage adviser!

Thanks.

I’ll pass that info on. Good point on the Google chrome add on. I used that when I was house hunting but didn’t think about it in this situation. Thanks

Bump. Any one else? Thanks

I always get three round and ask each of them the same question - why should I choose your EA over anyone else? If they slag off the competition then they get dropped. The one I chose last time didn't offer the highest valuation but they did answer my question by talking about their firms positives (and didn't use 'mood' shots in ads!) rather than the competitions negatives.

@Housingdestressnotdistress
What agent did you buy through? Were they any good?

I have found agents might start a bit high on price but buyers will negotiate down. So starting too low leaves you no negotiating room. Just be realistic but leave a bit of room for negotiation. Check prices yourself?

I would look at how the sales info is presented on Rightmove. Quality of photos and not too many! Are houses well presented? I know an agent cannot make chaotic people clear up, but what advice are they giving to sellers about presentation?

Look at sold prices if you can. Land Registry is way behind but you might track price reductions.

Lastly, have the agents a track record in selling where you live? Are they familiar with your area? Listen to what they say about sales and what the market is doing and then decide if you can work with the company. Do you trust them.

Can you ask on your local FB for any recommendations?