Estate agency has changed a lot since I first started out in 2006/7. Back then many agents barely had the internet in their offices. I even remember attending an interview once for a very large agency in London where they only had one computer for the whole office and you were reliant on pen, paper and a roller-deck. Not for me.
So as technology has changed, and the internet, smart phones and tablets have come along, so has the "do it yourself" landlord or homeowner, often armed with an internet connection and not much else.
Now I'm not naive, there is a place for these companies, and likewise, there are people out there who are more than capable of renting or even selling their own homes, but it shouldn't be considered the norm, and nor is it likely to become so in the short term.
But people do it, and sometimes very poorly, all under the impression they will "save money" as those horrible estate agents charge so much, and do naff all for it.
Take a look at this picture from an area I know well in South-West London. Any initial thoughts?
Saving money is not what comes to mind. Thinking you have maybe, but potentially losing 50k on a house sale and doing it all yourself isn't best for the finances in my eyes.
This is one of many examples, and if I were to highlight them all we'd be here all day, the wider point is that estate agents are experts in the property industry, and often local area experts too. You are paying for a service that, if done correctly, will almost always make you more money not cost you money.
Remember, the cheapest agent is the one that gets you the highest price, not the one that charges the least.
Always seek the advice of a good agent before selling or renting your biggest asset, and if you then decide you are better off doing it yourself then go for it, but at least survey what's out there first, before you potentially cost yourself a small fortune.
Email me on kevin@dansonpropertyservices.com or call on 020 3397 4499. If you are in the area, feel free to pop into the office – we are based on 116 High Street, Welling, Kent, DA16 1TJ. There is plenty of parking and the kettle is always on.
Don’t forget to visit the links below to view back dated deals and Welling Property News.
Follow The Buy-To-Let Property Investment Market in Welling
Welling Property Market LinkedIn Page
Danson Property Services Welling Facebook Page
Danson Property Services Welling Twitter Page
Welling Investment Property Specialist Danson Property Services Website
No comments:
Post a Comment