The estate agent is one of the few professionals in this world who are considered little better than politicians. Statistics show that estate agents (alongside MPs and council employees) are often viewed as untrustworthy. The wild and unregulated eighties were the time when this idea was born. It was a time when it was acceptable to describe a small one-bedroom flat as compact and bijou, with panoramic views of Victorian architecture. This translated into a tiny flat near the bus stop. This is not the case anymore. Estate agents are now highly professional members of the community and can assist in a number of ways. So, what can they do?
Sell your house or help you find one to buy. That’s all an estate agent needs to do and do it well. Of course, there is more to this than just that. They will visit the house you want to sell and assist you in determining the value. They are not themselves valuers, but they know the market, the area and what buyers want. The estate agent’s job is to help you understand the reality of your local housing market. You may think the pink Pagoda you have in your garden, or the converted bedroom into a bar is the best thing ever. The agent will look for ways to improve the property, as it’s in their interest. For example, they may suggest that you cut the lawn in the garden or remove offensive artwork from the walls before taking pictures. For Estate and Letting Agents Cheltenham, visit Me and You Estate Agents
Before bringing in the professional photographers, the estate agent will make sure you have all the correct measurements and a floorplan. The place has to look like it’s brand new or at least, presentable enough for potential viewers to be able to imagine putting their stamp on the place. They also take care of a very important certificate known as the Energy Performance Certificate or EPC. Modern homes are required to have this document as it can affect the buyer’s decision. The buyer may not want to buy something that costs a lot to heat and run, for example.
You’ll have to handle it yourself if you do not hire an estate agent and this can be a big responsibility. Most people don’t have the time for this time of commitment, nor the expert knowledge to do the job properly.