Rightmove calls on agents to help bust property market myths
The portal’s Director of Agency Partnerships Christian Balshen says the work of estate agents is often underestimated.
Rightmove is calling for agents to help bust myths about the property industry.
It comes as research by the portal found that the common causes of delays during a property move are mostly outside of an agent’s direct control.
Its analysis found 37% of movers cited conveyancing delays as the biggest cause of hold-ups, followed by survey or valuation issues (15%) delays with searches (11%), chain-related problems (9%) and another party pulling out before being replaced (11%).
Poor buyer qualification was cited by only 5% of respondents.
The work estate agents do is often underestimated because much of what they deliver happens behind the scenes.”
The findings form part of Rightmove’s Championing Agents home mover education programme, which works with independent agents to provide practical guidance and insight to prospective buyers and sellers.
The initiative aims to help consumers better understand the home-moving process while showcasing the expertise, problem-solving skills and support agents provide throughout a transaction.
As the industry continues discussions around improving the home-moving process following the Government’s Home Buying and Selling Reform Roadmap, Rightmove has also been bringing together agents and industry leaders through webinars, events and educational initiatives to champion professionalism and share best practice across the sector.
Underestimated agents
Christian Balshen, Director of Agency Partnerships at Rightmove, (pictured), says: “Estate agents are at the centre of a transaction, coordinating multiple parties, helping resolve issues and keeping buyers and sellers informed, yet many of the biggest causes of delays sit outside of their direct control.
“The work estate agents do is often underestimated because much of what they deliver happens behind the scenes. We want to help the public better understand the value agents provide and the vital role they play in helping people move home.”
“We’re keen to hear from more agents who want to share their knowledge and experiences. Whether it’s helping home movers navigate the moving process or raising professional standards through qualifications and training, we’re committed to championing the vital role agents play in the property market.”
