Local knowledge is top consideration for sellers

Dec 27, 2014
An estate agent with good knowledge of the area and the local property market is the most important factor to prospective sellers. This is revealed by the latest research among thousands of Rightmove users. Seventy four percent (74%) of sellers cite local expertise as the most important thing they look for when shortlisting an agent to value their homes. This was the clear leader despite the survey giving sellers the ability to opt for several answers. Also of significance to vendors is the agent’s brand (41%), staff expertise (28%) and the range of services an agent offers (28%). In lettings, a separate landlord survey found that staff expertise is the most important factor when they are choosing an agent (97% of landlords said it was important), followed by recommendation from others (94%), and the fees the agent charges (94%). Rightmove’s Commercial Director Miles Shipside: “This research is intended to help make sure agents are communicating the parts of their business that are most important to sellers and landlords when they’re trying to win instructions, both on Rightmove and in their own marketing. “The millions of visitors to Rightmove are engaged users who come back an average of four times per month, so it’s really important to keep the content updated and refreshed to impress the local target audience.” Retain Chiswick's distinctiveness Christian Harper, owner of Harper Finn: "I live and work in and around Chiswick and have done for over two decades. In that time I have sold or let a property in virtually every street in W4." Since those early days, over 1000 property owners have benefited from Harper Finn's unique approach, saving Chiswick people over £1 million on estate agent fees. But Christian still refuses to open up a shop. "Just over 83% of our business comes from personal recommendations and these days 97% of buyers and tenants now look for agents and property online. So there's no need for a posh showroom. "I'd rather save the cost and pass the savings on to my clients. Anyway, I think Chiswick residents would prefer not to see yet another estate agent office on Chiswick High Road or Turnham Green Terrace. The surplus of agencies detracts from the unique character of local retailers, bars and restaurants which is why many people move to Chiswick un the first place." To arrange a no-obligation chat and valuation with Christian, call 0208 995 2030.
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