What do you look for when choosing an estate agent to sell your home?

[HeadFairy]

Er that's it really, got to make a decision, they all seem much of a muchness and I can't decide....

Do a search for properties like yours in your area and see who is presenting them best. Look at it as if you were the buyer - how easily will they find your house and how well will it be presented.
Presumeably you already know who charges the best rates and who does escorted viewings etc.

thanks pagwatch, most estate agents don't put their charges on their websites do they? I can't seem to find any info about charges on any of the websites I've looked at.

I assumed all viewings were escorted or do some agents just give vendors the keys and say "go crazy!"???? I might have to hide some things if that's the case, don't want them rummaging through my drawers

Thanks for the advice about looking for similar properties, will have a look now....

The least annoying person.

HeadFairy

If you narrow down to a couple that you think look reasonable just get them to come in and do a valuation and discuss fees.

I always insist on escorted viewings and that they are arranged when i am not there as DS2 has sn and people get disconcerted. Agents won't hand the keys to a viewer but I have had some previously who expected me to do viewings. It is not unheard of.
You may also find that you can negotiate on rates if your property is likely to sell in the currant market.

Get a few in to help you decide. And let them know you are getting more than one agency to quote!

LOL laurie

That's brilliant pag... thanks for that. I guess there's no easy way of doing it without actually speaking to a few and have a few come round to have a look. We're selling a 2 bed flat so I think it's something that is currently in demand.

Look at the ads they have already placed online for example ( I believe most buyers start online now!). Get a written quote for services. Ask how they justify each expenditure (kickbacks from local papers aren't unknown!). Pose as a potential buyer of an existing property and get a feel for them. Meet them and decide if you LIKE them. Make sure they will present EVERY offer to you, possibly less of an issue in this buyers market. Make sure they will escort every visitor to your property. See if they come up with tips for you to make your home more presentable.

I am endlessly surprised how people here in the UK MEET their sellers or buyers at all! That's what we Aussies employ an agent for!