Would you let somebody else select your next home? Well you might if they spent time getting to know you. Asking questions like, "Where do your spend your time?" or "Do you prefer to eat in or dine out?" "Which is your favourite room in the house, and why?" Pretty deep eh? Well it's true, instead of trusting Estate Agents; more people are putting their faith in a property search company.
There are many differences between search companies and a traditional Estate Agent. Remember an Estate Agent is acting on the behalf of the vendor. The vendor has commissioned the Agent to sell their house. The Estate Agent is being paid to tell you that this house is the best thing since sliced bread.
The first thing a young commission hungry Estate Agent is taught is "ACTIVITY" and the second thing is "ACTIVITY". Most will be working to the principle that the more places they show you, the better chance they have of selling you something! (Not very helpful to you). Therefore, Estate Agents will not discriminate at which properties they will show you. This can waste literally hours of your time and leave you viewing totally unsuitable homes.
Employing a search consultant, could take away a great deal of the stress before moving home. Their experience will allow them to spot unsuitable property early by sticking to a brief agreed with yourself. They will only introduce home prospects to you that meet your criteria.
They will interview you to gauge exactly what you want, obtain property details on your behalf, sort suitable candidates, draw you a shortlist, view them on your behalf and then finally accompany you on your viewing appointments. It's not unknown for your consultant to perform the negotiation for you, saving you money on the purchase price. Most property search agencies would prepare a report for you on the area including local transport links, schools, restaurants, bars and even leisure facilities.
Most will have a wide network of contacts. They will have regular updates from local Estate Agents in their specialist areas and some will even get privileged information. Learning of new instructions before they are advertised is the way to secure bargains and a quick completion.
Employing a search consultant could take away a great deal of the stress before moving home. Their experience will allow them to spot unsuitable property early by sticking to a brief agreed with yourself. They will only introduce home prospects to you that meet your criteria.
It's not only residential buyers that can benefit. If you're investing for money in bricks and mortar, it can be useful having an extra pair of eyes looking for opportunities. Buying property to "Let Out" has become very popular as a form of making provision for the future. If you're doing this for the first time, it could be useful to have some professional guidance and advice. If you're an established landlord with an existing portfolio you probably won't mind commissioning someone to find the right opportunities for you.
Costs can vary, but generally fall between 1-2% of the property value that they find and complete for you. Some may charge an up-front administration fee or registration fee; this is normally to cover expenses that they are likely to incur. It is advisable therefore, to be sure that you want to move before consulting a professional, as initial fees are not normally refundable. On first glance these fees might not appear cheap, but you could view it as an investment. Make sure the consultant that you choose is a member of "The Association of Relocation Agents". Members will only be acting for purchasers and will not be doubling as an Estate Agent, will have Professional Indemnity Insurance and will have passed an entrance interview.
The Association of Relocation Agents can be contacted on 08700-737475 www.relocationagents.com
©2001-2002
Please note that the articles contained within this site were written for Pink Finance and are subject to copyright. They may not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the editor@pinkfinance.com.