Vendors reveal most important factors when choosing an estate agent

The valuation appointment remains one of the most influential stages of the home selling journey, research shows.

A survey of vendors by GetAgent found that almost nine out of 10 sellers said the market appraisal played an important role when deciding which estate agent to instruct.

The agency comparison provider surveyed home sellers who have sold in the past year and found that 86% considered the valuation appointment an important factor when choosing which estate agent to instruct, with almost half – at 47% – saying it was very important.

The research also suggests that presentation plays an important role in building confidence and trust.

The quality and consistency of an agent’s materials and communications matter to sellers.”

Almost three out of five sellers – at 59% – said the quality and presentation of an agent’s valuation report influenced which agent they ultimately chose over its competitors, while 69% said a professionally designed valuation report would make them more confident in an estate agent.

Consistency of branding also matters. Four out of five sellers (81%) said an agency appeared more professional when its valuation report, website, marketing materials and communications all shared the same branding.

Speed remains another key expectation, with more than half of sellers (51%) expecting to receive their valuation report within 24 hours of the appointment.

First impressions

Colby Short (pictured), Chief Executive of GetAgent, says: “Lead generation is incredibly important for any estate agent. We’re committed to getting quality agents through the door to meet sellers considering their next move. That introduction creates an opportunity, but the valuation appointment is where a seller starts to see what working with an agent would be like.

“They’re weighing up more than the valuation figure. They want confidence in the agent’s knowledge of the local market, their understanding of the property, the price they believe they can achieve and how they plan to market the home.

“Our research shows that the impression carries on beyond the appointment. The quality and consistency of an agent’s materials and communications matter to sellers, as does receiving the valuation report promptly. It’s the whole experience that shapes their decision.”