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Why Choosing a Local Independent Estate Agent Could Be the Best Option for You When Selling Your Home

Choosing the right estate agent is a crucial decision when embarking on one of life’s most significant and potentially stressful experiences: selling your home. It can be tempting to go with the biggest, most well-known agency, but bigger doesn’t always mean better. In fact, opting for a local independent estate agent could be the smarter choice, ensuring a smoother and more personalised selling experience.

Why the Right Choice Matters

Your home is likely your most valuable asset, and selling it is a complex process that most of us face only a few times in our lives. The right estate agent can guide you through this journey, helping you maximise your property’s value while minimising stress. But choosing the wrong agent can turn an exciting new chapter into a frustrating ordeal.

The Myth of Bigger Is Better

Large national estate agencies often dominate the market thanks to high-profile branding, nationwide coverage, and sometimes even TV ads. It’s easy to assume that their expansive reach would result in more exposure for your property and, ultimately, a faster sale. But the reality is more complicated.

While these agencies boast extensive networks, they don’t necessarily work together to sell properties. Each branch operates independently, meaning a potential buyer in a different part of the country is no more likely to hear about your home than they would through a property search online. In many cases, the reach of these big agencies is more about perception than practical advantage.

A Less Personal Approach

In larger corporate agencies, the sales process is often fragmented. Typically, a Property Valuer provides an appraisal, but after that initial meeting, you might never speak to them again. The rest of your journey is managed by a rotating cast of Sales Negotiators or Branch Managers, none of whom were there from the beginning. This impersonal, segmented approach can leave you feeling like just another transaction.

How Independent Estate Agents Do Things Differently

Local independent estate agents operate on a more personal level. At Fisher and Partners, for example, we do things differently:

  • Consistent Point of Contact: When you choose us, you’ll work directly with a senior managing partner who specialises in your area. From the initial valuation to the final sale, you’ll have one dedicated point of contact guiding you every step of the way.
  • Bespoke Service: We limit the number of properties we handle at any given time, ensuring that each client receives exceptional, personalised service.
  • Experienced Local Experts: Our managing partners aren’t just estate agents—they’re local market specialists with years of experience. They understand the nuances of your area, giving your property the best chance of achieving its maximum value.
  • No Middle Management Layers: Unlike large agencies, our team isn’t bound by rigid hierarchies. This allows us to work more cohesively, keeping you in the loop and ensuring that nothing gets lost in translation.

The Personal Touch Matters

Selling a home is as much an emotional journey as it is a financial transaction. Working with an independent estate agency means having a supportive, dedicated team by your side. You’ll never feel like a number on a spreadsheet. Instead, you’ll receive thoughtful guidance tailored to your needs.

Ready to Sell?

If you’re considering selling your property, we’d be delighted to provide you with a free market appraisal. Contact your local managing partner at Fisher and Partners, and we’ll arrange a convenient time to chat. We look forward to helping you through this journey.

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F&P Coffee Morning with Outside Design

In our recent Fisher & Partners Coffee Morning, we had the pleasure of chatting with Nicola Bailey Gibson from Outside Design, a landscaping company dedicated to unlocking the potential of outdoor spaces.

Q: What does Outside Design specialise in?

A: At Outside Design, we specialise in helping homeowners unlock the full potential of their gardens. We tailor our designs to fit various lifestyles and preferences, aiming to create outdoor spaces that seamlessly complement the home’s interior while reflecting the unique needs of each homeowner.

Q: Can you walk us through the process of creating a stunning garden?

A: Certainly! Our process begins with an in-depth consultation where we take the time to understand the client’s needs and budget. From there, we dive into designing the garden, considering elements such as layout, materials, and plant selection. Once the design is approved, we collaborate with trusted contractors to bring the vision to life, ensuring that every detail aligns perfectly with the client’s expectations.

Q: How does landscaping contribute to the value of properties?

A: Landscaping plays a crucial role in enhancing curb appeal and making a lasting impression on potential buyers. We’ve seen firsthand the instant impact that well-designed landscaping can have on property sales. By investing in outdoor spaces, sellers can attract more buyers and potentially increase the property’s value by 10% to 15%.

Q: Any tips for preparing gardens for spring and summer?

A: As we approach spring and summer, it’s essential to simplify garden layouts, declutter, and focus on cohesive design elements. I recommend creating a journey within the garden, incorporating designated seating areas and thoughtful spatial planning to maximise enjoyment during the warmer months.

Q: Where does Outside Design operate, and how can people find you?

A: Outside Design primarily operates in the home counties, with a particular focus on areas like Hampshire and Berkshire. Interested homeowners can easily find us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and our website, where they can explore our services and connect with us to discuss their garden design needs.

At Fisher & Partners, we love hosting these coffee mornings to connect with local businesses like Outside Design. Supporting local companies not only strengthens our community but also provides our clients with access to exceptional services for their homes. We look forward to continuing to showcase and collaborate with businesses that share our commitment to exceptional quality and service.