Selling your home is often perceived as a lengthy journey, and it becomes particularly exasperating when progress stalls or halts entirely. If you find yourself in a situation where your property sale is not moving as expected, contemplating a change in your estate agent could provide a much-needed catalyst. This step is generally considered by homeowners who are dissatisfied with the current pace of progress and are eager for a fresh approach.
Time to talk
Initiating a candid discussion with your current agent is a prudent first step. Express your dissatisfaction and the possibility of seeking services elsewhere. It’s crucial to inquire about the perceived challenges and the strategies that have been employed to address them. Request tangible evidence of their efforts, such as statistics from online property portals and the number of viewings your property has attracted.
Often, the stagnation of a sale can be attributed to factors such as an unrealistic asking price or the property’s presentation falling short of expectations. If you believe these issues are at the heart of the problem, you may be inclined to implement necessary changes to reinvigorate interest in your property. Nevertheless, if the explanations and solutions offered by your agent fail to convince you of their efficacy, then it might be the right moment to consider alternative options.
Check your contract
Prior to severing ties with your current agent, it’s imperative to thoroughly review the contract you’ve entered into. Some agreements bind homeowners to their agents for a specified duration, which could range from a few weeks to several months. Opting to terminate this agreement prematurely could result in financial obligations, such as owing commission to the initial agent even if the sale is ultimately concluded by another party. This scenario could lead to the unwelcome outcome of paying commissions to two different agents. Additionally, some contracts include clauses that entitle the agent to a fee if they have ‘introduced’ a buyer to the property, regardless of whether they complete the sale. In such cases, the agent is expected to furnish a documented list of prospective buyers they have introduced to your property.
Choose a new agent
In the quest for a new estate agent, soliciting recommendations from friends and acquaintances, as well as consulting online reviews, can provide valuable insights.
When engaging with potential agents, it’s essential to convey your current predicament and seek their candid feedback. The experience of being let down by an agent who failed to fulfil their promises can be disheartening. Therefore, it’s important to brace yourself for potentially uncomfortable truths. For instance, if the feedback suggests that your property would benefit from redecoration, essential repairs, or a revision of the asking price, it’s important to value such honesty.
These insights, although possibly difficult to accept, are crucial for aligning your expectations with the realities of the market.
The cornerstone of a successful collaboration between a seller and an estate agent is mutual trust. This requires an agent who communicates transparently and is committed to diligently working towards the sale of your home. Establishing a relationship based on honesty and hard work is paramount. An agent who is forthright about the challenges your property faces and is proactive in devising strategies to overcome these hurdles can make a significant difference in the outcome of your sale.
Ultimately, the goal is to select an agent who not only understands the intricacies of the property market but also prioritises your best interests, ensuring that your journey towards selling your home is as smooth and successful as possible.
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