🏡 5 Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Estate Agent
Choosing the right estate agent can make the difference between a smooth, profitable sale – or a frustrating experience that drags on for weeks. But with so many agents out there, how do you know who’s the right fit?
Here are five key questions every seller should ask before instructing an agent – and how the answers can reveal a lot more than you might expect.
1. How did you arrive at your valuation?
A good agent will explain their price recommendation using comparative evidence – recent sales of similar homes nearby, buyer demand, and current market conditions.
🚩 Red flag: If the agent can’t back up their number, or gives a noticeably higher figure than others without reason, they may be overvaluing your home to win your instruction.
✅ At Collyers, we offer free, evidence-based valuations and always talk through how we reached our figure – no guesswork or games.
2. What’s your contract length and notice period?
Some agents will lock sellers into long contracts of 12, 16, or even 20 weeks – regardless of performance. This can leave you stuck if things don’t go to plan.
🚩 Red flag: An agent who insists on a long tie-in might not be confident in their ability to sell quickly.
✅ At Collyers, we offer flexible agreements because we believe our results should speak for themselves.
3. How will you market my property – and where?
It’s 2025. If your home isn’t getting high-quality photos, floorplans, portals like Rightmove and Zoopla, social media exposure, and agent-led viewings – it’s not being marketed properly.
🚩 Red flag: Vague or basic marketing plans suggest your property won’t stand out.
✅ We invest in top-tier marketing and local targeting – giving your home the attention it deserves.
4. Do you have local knowledge and recent results in my area?
Selling in North Devon isn’t the same as selling in a big city. You want an agent who knows the villages, local schools, commuting times, broadband black spots – and what local buyers are really looking for.
🚩 Red flag: If they can’t name nearby streets or recent sales, they’re not as local as they claim.
✅ As a Barnstaple-based team, we’ve sold across Bideford, Ilfracombe, Braunton, South Molton, and Torrington – and we live and work here too.
5. What will you do if things aren’t working?
Sometimes a price tweak or updated marketing is needed. A good agent won’t just sit back and wait – they’ll act quickly and communicate clearly.
🚩 Red flag: If their answer is vague, they may not be proactive.
✅ We believe in honesty, flexibility and fast action – and we keep you updated every step of the way.
💬 Still Deciding Who to Sell With?
Before you commit to a long-term contract, let’s talk.
We’ll offer a free, no-obligation valuation and answer any questions – no pushy sales talk, just honest advice.
👉 Book a Free Valuation
👉 Explore Our Sales Services
Collyers Estate Agents – Trusted Locals. Award-Winning Service.
