Estate Agents merit a whole post all to themselves for one simple reason: they deal with the vast majority of all the property transactions in the UK.  If you are in property in any way then you will want to learn how to work effectively with Estate Agents. They are key to your success. We source a lot of our property through Estate Agents, Commercial Agents and other Letting Agents (other than our own agency). They are our best friends, make them yours too!

In this document we will highlight the key things to remember to make the most out of your relationships with Estate Agents

Remember Property is a People Business: People buy People not Products

Property is largely a people business. In any form of sales, people essentially buy people not products: meaning people will prefer to do business with someone they can get along with. Someone they have some common ground with. Because of the large sums involved in property transactions, people also want certainty and they want to work with someone they can trust.

Build Trust

The key to how to work effectively with estate agents is to build trust. Build up that trust gradually. Do what you say you are going to do. If you said you would phone back about a particular property then do it. If you book a viewing, for heaven’s sake turn up on time. If you indicate you will be making an offer, then make one, preferably within 24hrs.

Don’t Waste Their Time

Estate Agents perhaps more than most are also extremely busy people. They see and speak to a lot of people on a daily basis and often work a 6 day week. Here, the nature of property and the scale of the transactions works against them: many people who say they want to sell don’t and many who say they want to buy, don’t. They are ‘thinking about it’. They are used to people not delivering. They are used to time-wasters – and it drives them mad.

Be Memorable

Try to set yourself apart from everyone else. Build rapport but don’t waste their time delving into the details of their pets, favourite cars etc. etc.. Use your ‘elevator speech’. Be honest. If you are just starting out then say so. However, equally if you have some experience then don’t be afraid to drop this into the conversation. If you have bought a property through another local agent recently then let them know. If you have ‘proof of funds’ then this is also useful to bring up. Be aware that Estate Agents meet a a lot of ‘property investors’. Most of these are people who talk a lot but don’t do very much. You are different.

Reward Good Work and Celebrate Success

When you are successful and complete on a transaction take something into the Estate Agents office; a box of chocolates, bunch of flowers or something similar. Thank them for all their hard work. You will be well on your way to a great business relationship.

Conclusion

So remember, Estate Agents are people too; busy people with a job to do, just like you. Anything you can do to make their job easier will make for a long and productive relationship and you will have taken the first step in learning how to work effectively with estate agents.

If you have any questions please get in touch.