Property Agent

Why shouldn’t I search the internet?

The internet is a great tool in a property search, but there is no substitute for actually visiting the area and seeing it for yourself.

• Photos are always angled to show the property in its best possible light
• What you can’t see is the Pilon or the Motorway or the new development that’s just off camera

Location, location, location is a bit of a cliché phrase these days, however it is so true!  If you have a search agent acting for you they can check out suitable properties in advance of involving you. They know your requirements, understand your tastes and needs and be well placed to be your eyes and ears when checking out the location on your behalf.

A search agent will get you ahead of your buying competition

Employing a search agent who already has all the right contacts will save you effort and time, and more importantly give you access to the growing number of properties that are being ‘quietly marketed’ (properties where the seller does not want the house on the internet, advertised or have a board outside). The only people to hear about these properties are the people perceived as serious buyers, those who have everything in place to proceed with a purchase. Search agents are the first phone call for estate agents who take on such a property, as they know that our clients are ready to go!  Search agents also have the benefit of hearing about new properties or price reductions before they go to the open market.

How can I pay the least for my property?

Using a search agent hasn’t traditionally been part of the house buying culture in the UK, although this is now starting to change. Many buyers are unaware of the service, or perceive that it is an extra cost.  Consider though that approximately 99% of vendors use an estate agent. They recognise that although it costs, they will be financially better off than selling privately, even after paying the commission. This same logic can be used when thinking about using a property search agent.

What else can you do for me?

A search agent will really reduce the stress of buying your property. As well as finding the right place for you and reducing the time and effort you need to

• Secure and negotiate terms on your behalf
• Manage your transaction right through to exchange
• Provide you with suggested local trusted professionals such as Architects, Builders, Kitchen/Bathroom Fitters, Solicitors, Surveyors etc
• Help identify suitable rental properties where needed

The market is volatile, many properties seem to come and go before you get a chance to even take a look, and when you do find a house you love, securing and negotiating terms on it can be fraught, and successfully managing the transaction through to exchange can benefit from skilled assistance. All this means buying a house can be a very stressful experience.

Of course using a search agent isn’t restricted to buying a property. Using the expertise of a property search agent to find a rental property is also a time and money saving investment. Rental property can come onto the market and be let very quickly so having someone in the area to view property for you, especially if moving from a distance, is paramount to securing the house you want.