Tag: real estate agent

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Should You Take Your Property Off the Market if the Market is Slowing Down?

If you’re trying to sell your property, the constant stream of alarming headlines might make you question your decision. Is the market in turmoil? Are house prices about to crash? Should you take your property off the market and wait it out? Before making any rash decisions, here’s what you need to know.

The Current Market Reality

The property market has certainly slowed from the frenzied activity of 2021 and 2022, but this doesn’t mean it’s crashing. What we’re seeing now is a market correction, a return to more normal conditions after an exceptional period.

While bidding wars and instant sales have become less common, property values and sales remain higher than pre-pandemic levels. Buyers are still looking, and properties continue to sell. However, a slower pace means sellers need to adapt their approach.

Should You Take Your Home Off the Market?

The short answer: not necessarily.

Here’s why:

  1. Your Reasons for Selling Haven’t Changed
    Why did you list your property in the first place? Whether it’s a growing family, downsizing, or a job relocation, those reasons likely still stand. Removing your property from the market won’t solve those challenges.
  2. The Market is Always Changing
    Fluctuations are a natural part of the property market. Reacting to short-term conditions by pulling your property could mean missing out on opportunities that still exist.
  3. Buyers Are Still Out There
    Even in a slower market, people still need homes. Life events, marriage, children, relocations, mean buyers are always searching. Positioning your property correctly ensures it appeals to those motivated buyers.

How to Adapt to a Changing Market

If your home isn’t selling as quickly as expected, here’s how to adjust:

  1. Reassess Pricing
    The market determines the value of your home, not past trends. If your property is priced based on the booming market of a year ago, it may not align with today’s conditions. Work with your agent to adjust your price and attract buyers.
  2. Enhance Presentation
    In a competitive market, presentation matters more than ever. Professional photography, staging, and minor improvements can make your home stand out.
  3. Work With the Right Agent
    Navigating a changing market requires expertise. Choose an agent who understands the current landscape and can tailor their strategy to your property’s unique needs.
  4. Be Flexible
    Consider alternative selling methods, such as confidential sales or off-market strategies, if traditional methods aren’t yielding results.

Remember: It’s a Buyer’s Market

With more properties available and fewer buyers, competition is higher. Sellers must be realistic and proactive, but this also means that buyers, who are likely sellers themselves, are in the same boat. Compromising on price may be offset by better deals on your next purchase.

Still Feeling Unsure? We’re Here to Help

Selling in a slower market doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our team of experienced estate agents can guide you through these challenging times, offering tailored advice and strategies to get your home sold.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s work together to achieve your property goals.

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Should You Prioritize Qualifications or Experience When Choosing an Estate Agent?

The average seller spends years deliberating about selling their home. With all of that time spent researching, many sellers will already know which estate agent they will use when ready to market their home. So, how have they made this decision?

The average seller spends years deliberating about selling their home.

And countless hours scrolling through the property websites to see what is available.

With all that time spent researching, many sellers will already know which estate agent they will use when ready to market their home. 

Studies show that most sellers have already decided who they will ask to sell their house long before arranging the valuation appointments. 

So, how have they made this decision? 

Gut instinct? 

The biggest or busiest agent is ‘probably’ the best? 

The agent with the most for-sale boards in your town seems okay, so you’ll probably just call them, right?

So you arrange for the 3 most likely candidates to visit your home and tell you what they think. 

This is the agents’ time to shine. Their opportunity to pitch you for the business. An interview or audition, if you like. 

They come to your home with the intention to wow you with their local knowledge and impressive sales figures. They tell you how many properties they’ve sold in your street over the years.

Or perhaps they show off their shiny certificate from the exams they’ve passed with flying colours. 

In the wise words of Shania Twain, “that don’t impress me much”!

It’s all a bit lacklustre. You’re not wowed or bowled over by anything you’ve been told. You’re not excited by the agents’ passion or their creative ideas about how they want to market your home.

So what should you be impressed by?

Being able to pass an exam does confirm that this agent has read up on the role they’re working in and was competent enough to pass the exams. 

Great. Doing a job for a long time does mean that you will have years of experience. 

Fabulous. But do either of those points guarantee that they will be able to sell your home? 

No, of course not. In truth, neither years of experience nor qualifications will guarantee an excellent selling experience for you when you sell your home.

So what should you look for when choosing an estate agent?

You should look for an agent with a plan!

Not just an arbitrary plan but a structured process that can be proven to get results.

Of course, experience is important. Otherwise, there won’t be any substance behind the plan and absolutely no proof that it works. 

And qualifications, whilst not essential, definitely confirm that this agent has a clue. 

But, fundamentally, it isn’t all about certificates and the number of years in the job. That is good but certainly not the be-all and end-all. 

Your agents need a plan!

It’s a way to demonstrate how they work and what they’ll do to ensure that your home sells for the highest amount of money in the shortest possible timescale. 

This is the goal of all estate agents and sellers. 

So how will they achieve this? 

Having tons of boards up in the town does not mean that the agent is the busiest seller. It actually means that they are busy marketing properties. 

You want to see how they are being marketed and how that marketing translates to viewings and offers for you.

So, to summarise, qualifications and experience are very important factors. Still, without a plan for how the task of selling your home is achieved, they’re simply ego boosters for the agent and won’t guarantee a sale for you and your home. 

When you’re ready to put your home on the market, consider your valuation appointments as interviews and ask the agents to demonstrate their proven process for selling homes. 

If you’d like to hear more about our selling process and how we help our clients secure the highest possible offers in the shortest amount of time, get in touch today!

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Welcome Dane to Fisher & Partners: Meet Our Newest Managing Partner

We’re excited to introduce Dane Spelina, the latest managing partner to join Fisher & Partners. Dane brings a wealth of expertise and deep local insight to our Maidenhead region, marking an exciting new chapter for our team and, most importantly, for our clients.

With extensive experience at top-tier agencies and a passion for delivering exceptional service, Dane is committed to making your property journey smooth and successful.

We recently caught up with Dane to find out what inspires him, how his unique approach sets him apart, and why his local knowledge makes him the perfect partner for your property needs.

Q&A With Dane Spelina

What inspired you to join Fisher & Partners after working with leading agencies like Knight Frank and Hamptons?

Dane: My time at Knight Frank and Hamptons International taught me so much, they’re brilliant companies with excellent teams. However, I noticed a shift in what clients want. Today’s property market leans towards a more personal, bespoke approach.

At Fisher & Partners, I can provide that one-on-one service clients are looking for, without the constraints of a larger corporate structure. It’s about truly tailoring the experience to the individual, which is something I’m passionate about.

What makes you stand out as an estate agent?

Dane: Starting my career during the challenging 2007-2008 financial crisis gave me a unique perspective on navigating different markets.

Over the years, I’ve worked across Maidenhead, Cookham, Ascot, Gerrards Cross, and South Oxfordshire. This has equipped me with a deep understanding of a wide range of property types, communities, and client needs. Whether it’s a family home or a high-end property, I adapt my approach to fit each situation.

How does your local knowledge shape your work?

Dane: Growing up in Cookham and living in the area has given me invaluable insights. From knowing the best roads to understanding school catchments and local planning nuances, these details allow me to craft strategies that are perfectly suited to the area. It’s about bringing value that you can’t find online or in a brochure.

What’s your top piece of advice for someone selling their home?

Dane: Always start by meeting your agent to align on a strategy. The approach you take, whether it’s a public listing, a confidential sale, or something else, makes a huge difference. Clear expectations and a solid plan from day one are key to a smooth, successful process.

What’s one thing sellers often overlook?

Dane: Presentation is critical, especially when it comes to professional architectural photography. Many homes hit the market without considering how they’re presented, and that can significantly impact the final sale price. Investing in high-quality visuals is always worth it.

How do your professional connections benefit your clients?

Dane: Over the years, I’ve built a strong network of professionals, from lawyers and interior designers to house dressers and tradespeople. This “black book” of trusted contacts ensures my clients have access to everything they need, whether it’s preparing their home for sale or handling post-purchase details. It’s all about offering a seamless, stress-free experience.

What do sellers of high-end properties expect from their agent?

Dane: Discretion, expertise, and personal service. Sellers want a trusted advisor who is with them from start to finish—not passed between team members. At Fisher & Partners, I ensure every client receives tailored advice and continuous support throughout their journey.

How does your background in marketing enhance your work as an agent?

Dane: My studies in property, agency, and marketing allow me to think creatively about how to position and promote homes. Whether it’s crafting a compelling story for a listing or finding innovative ways to attract buyers, this expertise helps me achieve the best results for my clients.

How do you maintain balance in your life, and does it influence your work?

Dane: I believe a balanced life leads to better results. I enjoy playing squash, exploring motorsports, and walking my dog along the river. Taking time to recharge helps me stay focused and creative, which ultimately benefits my clients. Fisher & Partners’ approach allows me the flexibility to give each client my full attention.

What trends are you noticing in the local property market?

Dane: After the pandemic, buyers were prioritising space, big gardens and homes further from stations. Now, as people return to offices, proximity to transport links is regaining importance. Sellers should be aware of this shifting demand when marketing their homes.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Dane: Helping clients navigate what can be a stressful process. My role is to simplify the journey, solve challenges, and provide the reassurance that they have a trusted expert by their side. Seeing the relief and satisfaction on their faces when everything comes together is incredibly rewarding.

If you had to sum up Fisher & Partners in one sentence, what would it be?

Dane: Fisher & Partners is about delivering high-level, bespoke service, personal, independent, and focused on achieving exceptional results with one point of contact throughout.

We’re thrilled to welcome Dane to the team. His dedication to client success, combined with his deep local expertise and personal approach, embodies the values Fisher & Partners stands for.

If you’re thinking about selling your property in Maidenhead or the surrounding areas, Dane would love to help. Get in touch for a free market appraisal and discover how we can make your property journey seamless and rewarding.

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Preparing Your Home For Sale

Moving homes is an exciting time filled with thoughts of your new dream house. Our job is to help you present your old house in the best possible light to maximise your property’s potential. That’s why we’re here to provide you with invaluable tips and tricks to help you prepare beforehand.

Our expertise and commitment to showcasing your property’s true potential will ensure a smooth and rewarding selling experience. So, let’s dive in and make sure your old house shines, capturing the attention of eager buyers.

Freshen Up Your Home for a Stellar Impression

At Fisher & Partners, we know that a clean home leaves a lasting impact on potential buyers. Take the extra time to deep clean every nook and cranny, from the tops of cabinets to hidden corners. If you’re still living in the property, consider hiring professional cleaners to ensure a sparkling presentation.

Create an Inviting Atmosphere with a Pleasant Scent

First impressions matter, including how your home smells. Avoid overpowering scents and opt for a subtle, well-maintained fragrance. One clever tip is to add a touch of polish to your radiators, giving your home a welcoming and cared-for aroma. A few strategically placed scented candles can also enhance the ambiance without overwhelming the senses.

Showcase Your Space by Decluttering

Maximise the potential of your property by decluttering and showcasing its true beauty. Box up unnecessary items and temporarily store them elsewhere, allowing your home to feel more spacious and inviting. This clean and open environment will capture buyers’ attention and help them envision their own possibilities within the space.

Create a Blank Canvas with Neutral Decor

To appeal to a wide range of tastes, consider neutralising your decor. While your personal style may be unique, neutralising the space allows buyers to envision their own preferences and possibilities. A fresh coat of paint and subtle decor adjustments can create a blank canvas that speaks to their imagination.

Embrace Natural Light and Outdoor Vibes

Open up your home to natural light by drawing back curtains and letting sunshine flood in. This brightens the space and creates an inviting atmosphere. Add a touch of nature with potted plants or fresh flowers to enhance the freshness and vitality of your property.

Highlight Storage Spaces for Added Value

Organise your storage spaces to maximise their potential. Potential buyers appreciate ample storage, so ensure closets are well-organised, clothes are neatly hung, and oversized furniture is removed. Presenting everything in its rightful place showcases the functionality and value of your property’s storage options.

Transform Your Bathroom into a Tranquil Retreat

Create a spa-like experience in your bathroom by stacking coordinated towels, adding scented candles, and incorporating small plant pots for a touch of nature. Coordinated bath mats and towels create a cohesive and harmonious look, while the simple act of closing the toilet seat can make a significant difference in overall appeal.

Fisher & Partners understands the power of these home staging techniques. By following these tips, you can make a remarkable difference in how potential buyers perceive your property. If you need help with getting your home show-ready, our property concierge service can connect you to professional organisers and home stagers to assist.

Contact us today to book an accurate market appraisal to find out your home’s true value. Then get ready to impress, maximise your property’s potential, and secure the sale you deserve.

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Is a Viewer a Waste of Time if They Still Have to Sell Their Own House?

When selling your home, viewings can be an emotional rollercoaster. You invest time and effort into preparing your property, dreaming of offers that don’t always materialize. After weeks or months of this cycle, it’s understandable to feel frustrated, especially when viewers aren’t yet in a position to buy. But should you refuse viewings from those who still need to sell their own property?

The short answer: No, and here’s why.

The Value of Every Viewing

Every viewing, even from someone who isn’t immediately able to proceed, has potential. While it’s tempting to limit access to only those who can buy right away, doing so can harm your chances of finding the right buyer. Here’s why keeping an open mind is essential:

1. Viewers Could Fall in Love with Your Home

A buyer who isn’t ready today might fall head over heels for your property and make it their priority to sell their current home. They could even lower their price to secure a quicker sale or explore alternative financing options. You might be surprised at how motivated some people can become when they find their dream home.

2. You Don’t Know Their Financial Situation

Not every viewer will disclose their complete financial picture upfront. Some may have significant savings, family support, or the ability to sell their home quickly if they find the right property. Refusing to let them view your property could mean missing out on someone who could move forward sooner than you expect.

3. Broader Appeal = More Offers

Refusing viewings narrows your pool of potential buyers. Even if a viewer isn’t ready now, they may spread the word to friends or family who are. The goal of marketing your home is to create as much interest as possible. Limiting access works against this principle.

4. Future Buyers Start Here

Sometimes, buyers who aren’t yet ready will remember your property once they’re in a position to purchase. By making a positive impression during the viewing, you may plant the seed for a future offer.

The Role of a Good Estate Agent

While keeping your home accessible to a range of buyers is important, so is ensuring those who view your property are serious about the process. This is where a professional estate agent comes in.

  • Qualifying Viewers: A good agent will gather details about potential buyers, including their position, timeline, and motivation.
  • Setting Expectations: Your agent can explain the situation to both you and the buyer, ensuring that neither party has unrealistic expectations about timelines.
  • Managing Feedback: The agent will collect feedback from all viewers, even those not immediately ready to buy, so you can understand how your property is perceived.

What About the Frustration?

Selling a home can test your patience, especially when viewings don’t result in offers. However, instead of focusing on the immediate payoff of each appointment, try to see viewings as part of a larger strategy to sell your home.

  • Every viewing increases exposure. Even if the viewer isn’t ready, they might talk about your home to someone who is.
  • Every showing provides feedback. Use what you learn from viewings to make small improvements or adjustments to your marketing strategy.

Conclusion

While it’s natural to feel frustrated by viewers who aren’t ready to buy, they’re not necessarily a waste of time. Every viewing is an opportunity to showcase your property and attract interest, whether immediate or future.

The key is working with an experienced estate agent who can qualify potential buyers and manage the process effectively. If you’re feeling stuck or frustrated with your current selling experience, contact our property experts today to learn how we can help.

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Property Valuations Explained: Find the Most Accurate Method for Your Needs

Are you in the early stages of planning a move? Wondering if it’s too soon to arrange a valuation of your home? Whether you’re just curious about your home’s value or gearing up to sell, understanding the different valuation options can help you make informed decisions. Here’s a breakdown of the most common methods, their accuracy, and how they fit into your moving journey.

Why Is a Property Valuation Important?

Knowing the value of your home is essential for setting a budget for your next property and understanding the equity tied up in your current home. Even if you’re not quite ready to sell, having an idea of your property’s value can help you plan.

The good news? There are three main ways to value your property, ranging from quick estimates to in-depth assessments. Each comes with its own level of accuracy and commitment, so you can choose the one that suits your situation best.

1. Online Valuations – A Quick Starting Point

Commitment Level: None
Accuracy: Limited

Online property valuations are the easiest way to get a rough idea of your home’s worth. Using an algorithm, these tools estimate your property’s value based on the original purchase price, recent local sales, and current market trends.

You can complete an online valuation in minutes; anytime, anywhere. No appointments, no hassle. However, because these valuations don’t account for improvements you’ve made to your property or its current condition, the results can lack accuracy. Still, they’re an excellent starting point when you’re just exploring your options.

2. Virtual Valuations – A Personal Touch

Commitment Level: Moderate
Accuracy: Better

Virtual valuations became popular during the pandemic and remain a convenient option. These valuations are conducted by a real estate expert who assesses your property using photos, videos, and local market knowledge.

Unlike online tools, a virtual valuation incorporates a professional’s expertise, giving you a more tailored estimate. You don’t need to prep your home for an in-person visit, and it’s a comfortable option for homeowners who aren’t quite ready for a full valuation. While more accurate than an online valuation, virtual assessments can still have some limitations since the agent can’t physically inspect your property.

3. In-Person Valuations – The Gold Standard

Commitment Level: High
Accuracy: Excellent

When you’re ready to put your property on the market, an in-person valuation is the best choice. A local expert will visit your home to thoroughly assess its condition, features, and upgrades. This method provides the most accurate valuation and ensures you have the confidence to price your property correctly.

An in-person valuation takes more time and preparation, but it’s the ideal option if you’re serious about selling.

Which Valuation Is Right for You?

Each method has its pros and cons, but there’s an option for every stage of your journey.

  • Curious about your home’s worth? Start with an online valuation.
  • Looking for more insight but not quite ready to sell? Try a virtual valuation.
  • Ready to put your property on the market? Book an in-person valuation for a precise assessment.

If you’d like to learn more about the valuation process or book an appointment, Fisher and Partners is here to help. Contact our team of property-selling experts today to find out which valuation option suits your needs best. We’d be delighted to help you take the next step in your moving journey!

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What is a Qualified Buyer and How Can They Impact the Sale of Your Property?

Have you ever come across the term “qualified buyer” in property transactions? Estate agents often mention it, and if you’re looking to sell, understanding what it means can be very beneficial. Let’s dive into why having a qualified buyer can make a world of difference when selling your home.

What Does ‘Qualified’ Mean?

In the context of buying property, “qualified” doesn’t mean the buyer holds a specific certification. Instead, it’s an estate agent’s way of identifying buyers who are ready and able to purchase, with clear requirements in mind and, most importantly, the financial means to proceed. At Fisher and Partners, we carefully qualify every buyer, reducing the likelihood of time-wasting viewings and increasing the chance of a smooth sale for you.

Why Qualifying Buyers is Essential

An experienced estate agent will register buyers on their system and note the specifics of what they’re looking for. Just as you wouldn’t want to view homes that don’t fit your criteria, the same applies to buyers. When we know what a buyer wants, we can match them with suitable properties, ensuring your home attracts genuine interest rather than casual lookers. Think of it as matchmaking for homes – it’s all about compatibility.

Qualifying buyers extends well beyond knowing their “must-haves.” It delves into their financial capacity, which is critical for you as a seller. The last thing you want is to prepare your home for a viewing or accept an offer, only to find out the buyer doesn’t have the resources to back it up.

What a Qualified Buyer Looks Like

When we say a buyer is “qualified,” we mean they meet these essential criteria:

  1. Clear Financial Position: The buyer has outlined exactly how they intend to finance the property. This might be through cash, a mortgage, or funds from a pending property sale. We ensure that prospective buyers either provide proof of funds (for cash purchases) or show a mortgage agreement in principle, so there’s no ambiguity about their financial capability.
  2. Transparent Timescale: They’ve communicated their timing expectations. For example, they may have a property to sell themselves, or a rental notice period to complete. We then share this information with you so that you have a realistic idea of their timeline.
  3. Property Sale Status: If the buyer needs to sell their own property first, they inform us of its current status – whether it’s on the market, under offer, or just beginning the sale process. This transparency helps you understand how realistic their offer is in terms of timing and their ability to proceed.

Why It Matters to You

Imagine this: you receive an exciting offer, perhaps even over your asking price, and rush to find your next dream home. But suddenly, you learn that the buyer isn’t as ready as they seemed – they still need to sell their property, which isn’t even listed yet. With your hopes set high, you might now face frustrating delays, or worse, the buyer might be unable to sell their own home for the needed amount. All of this could have been avoided if the buyer’s qualifications were clearly understood from the start.

By thoroughly qualifying each buyer, we help protect you from the risk of failed offers and sudden setbacks. When a buyer’s finances and timeline are clear, you gain peace of mind that the transaction can proceed as planned, allowing you to confidently move forward.

Using This Knowledge to Your Advantage

With qualified buyers, you have more than just an offer on paper. You have insight into the circumstances of each potential transaction, allowing you to make decisions that fit your needs. If, for example, you aren’t in a rush to sell, you can confidently consider offers from buyers with slightly longer timelines. Or, if speed is a priority, you might opt for a cash buyer who’s ready to move swiftly.

The knowledge your estate agent gathers from each buyer ensures a smoother, more informed decision-making process, aligning your expectations with those of the buyer from the outset.

If this is the first time you’re hearing about buyer qualification, our team of experts is here to help. Understanding this process could save you valuable time, energy, and money. If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to offer a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner at Fisher and Partners, and we’ll set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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How to Tell if Your Property is Overpriced

How to Tell if Your Property is Overpriced

Setting the right price for your property is one of the most important decisions when putting your home on the market. Price too high, and your home could sit unsold, leaving you frustrated. Price too low, and you risk losing money on your most significant investment. So how do you know if your property is overpriced?

Key Indicators Your Property Might Be Overpriced

  1. Lack of Viewings
    The first 4–6 weeks of a property being on the market are crucial. This is when your listing gets the most exposure on property platforms and through your agent’s buyer network. A steady flow of viewings during this time indicates the pricing is appealing. If viewings are sparse or non-existent, it may suggest the price is deterring buyers.
  2. No Offers
    While you might not receive an acceptable offer immediately, the absence of any offers is a red flag. Offers, even low ones, show that buyers are interested and provide a starting point for negotiations.
  3. Minimal Communication From Your Agent
    An experienced estate agent will keep you updated regularly, especially in the early stages of marketing your property. If updates become infrequent because there’s little interest to report, it’s time to reassess the price.

What To Do if Your Property Isn’t Selling

If your property has been on the market for a while without generating interest, it may be time to take action:

  1. Review the Situation
    Arrange a meeting with your agent to discuss the property’s performance. They can provide feedback on the market and buyer behavior, helping you understand how your property is perceived.
  2. Reassess the Pricing
    Using your agent’s market knowledge, determine where your property fits within the current market conditions. A realistic price adjustment can reignite buyer interest.
  3. Relaunch With Refreshed Marketing
    Work with your agent to relaunch the property with updated promotional materials, such as refreshed photography and a revised description, alongside a new pricing strategy. This can help your listing stand out as a fresh opportunity.

The Pitfall of Overpricing

An overpriced property can go stale on the market, leading to price reductions that may ultimately result in a sale price lower than expected. On the other hand, a well-priced property can generate significant buyer interest, potentially leading to competitive offers that drive the price up.

Under pricing rarely results in selling for less than the property’s value. If your asking price is low, the increased interest often results in multiple offers, which naturally drives the price up to its true market value or higher.

If you’re struggling to sell your property or think it may be overpriced, we’re here to help. At Fisher and Partners, our experienced managing partners provide expert advice tailored to your property and goals. Contact us today for a free market appraisal, and let us help you take the next step towards your move—we’d be delighted to hear from you!

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Choosing the Right Estate Agent for a Successful Home Sale

So, you’ve decided to move. You know the time is right, and you may even have a destination in mind. But how do you decide which estate agent to use?

Many of us turn to friends and family for recommendations or look to the most prominent agent in town. While these might seem like obvious choices, the right estate agent for you might not be the one with the most sales or the biggest office. The agent that worked for your friend might not be the best fit for selling a house like yours.

Common Mistakes in Choosing an Agent

Homeowners often compare agents based on fees and property valuations. However, these factors are less relevant than you might think.

  • Fees: You only pay a fee if the property sells. If the agent doesn’t perform, they don’t charge you.
  • Valuations: An agent who overvalues your property, whether due to inexperience or to win your business, likely won’t achieve a sale. This means no fee will be charged anyway.

Choosing an agent based on cheap fees or the highest valuations may leave you stuck without a sale.

Key Considerations

Evidence-Based Valuation: Look for an agent who provides a valuation based on solid evidence, not just a hunch or flattery. A careful analysis of the market and experience should lead to an accurate valuation, ensuring your home sells within a reasonable time frame.

Strategic Marketing: A few quick photos on a phone aren’t enough. An agent should have a clear process and plan for marketing your property to attract as many buyers as possible, generating viewings that lead to offers.

Value Over Cost

When selling your most valuable investment, now is not the time to bargain hunt for discounted fees. You need an agent who offers exceptional service, not just the lowest fee. Look for one who can demonstrate their marketing skills, showcase your property to the right buyers, and think proactively.

The Right Fit

The fee an agent charges is only payable if they successfully sell your home. When you accept an offer and complete the sale, you’ll likely be happy to pay for their service. Selecting an agent with a clear strategy and proven experience ensures a successful sale, avoiding the adverse effects of an unsold property languishing on the market.

If you need help selling your home, get in touch with our team of property experts. We’re ready to demonstrate our skills, strategy, and innovative technology to help you sell your property and move on to your dream home.

If you’re looking to sell your property, we’d be delighted to give you a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner, and we will set up a time to chat. We’d be delighted to hear from you.

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Are You Thinking of Moving House to Get Into the Right School Catchment?

If your child is nearing school age, especially if they’re 3 or 4 years old, you’re likely already thinking about schools and their future education. With school applications for September 2025 looming, many parents are grappling with one critical question: are we in the right school catchment area?

If moving home is part of your plan to secure a spot in a preferred school, it’s worth understanding the timeline and considerations involved. Here’s what you need to know.

Planning for Growing Families

Family life can be a whirlwind, and many parents don’t consider future space or school needs when choosing their first home. As families grow, it’s common to find the house that once felt spacious now feels overcrowded.

This becomes especially pressing when it’s time to think about school applications. What might have seemed like a distant concern when your child was born can quickly become a pressing reality as school deadlines approach.

Understanding School Catchment Areas

A catchment area defines the boundary around a school, determining which children have priority admission. To find out if you’re in the catchment for your preferred school, check your local council’s website for a map of catchment boundaries.

In England, children start school at age 4, with applications typically opening in September and closing in January of the year they turn 4. You’ll receive your school placement by April, giving you a few months to prepare for the start of term in September.

Why Moving Early Matters

If you discover that your current home isn’t in the catchment for your chosen school, moving might become a priority. However, house sales take time, and waiting too long could force you into a rushed and stressful process.

A rushed sale can lead to compromises, such as lowering the asking price to attract quick buyers. Planning your move early, however, allows you to properly market your property, achieve its full value, and secure your next home in good time.

Take Control of the Timeline

School applications for September 2025 will close in January 2025. To avoid unnecessary stress, now is the time to start planning if moving house is part of your strategy. By acting early, you’ll have the advantage of time to stage your property, market it effectively, and negotiate confidently without feeling pressured by looming deadlines.

If you’re considering a move to secure your child’s place at the right school, Fisher and Partners is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free market appraisal and advice tailored to your needs. Let your local managing partner help you navigate this important transition with ease and confidence—we’d be delighted to hear from you!