HOW DO ESTATE AGENTS VALUE YOUR PROPERTY?

Many of us think that valuing a property is easy - the estate agent goes around your home and values it on how many bedrooms you have and what street you live on, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Sure, number of bedrooms and the street name does count towards the final valuation value but a trully accurate value from an estate agent will take dozons of other things into account - from small unique features that buyers will fall in love with, to the age of the central heating system in your property.

FIRST THINGS FIRST
Whether you’re calling your agent or popping in to their branch to see them face to face, you probably want to immediately know what your property is worth, but all good things come to those who wait. On first contact, your chosen agent will check the price and sale time of similar and recently sold properties in your area to gather as much information as possible to value your property accurately. This is always a great place to start for your agent as it tells your agent about buyer demand. You should always choose an agent that has local experince, that way they already know your street and the surrounding attractions like the back of their hand - things like transport links, good local schools, and other amenities close to your property will all add value.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU
When your agent first visits you, it’s important you tell them what you want from the sale. If you want a quick sale then perhaps it’s a good idea to list your property competitively. Taking a few thousand off your marketing price could turn more heads and get more people viewing your property. This is something you, as the seller, needs to decide as your chosen agent will always aim for you to get the most money from your property. Don’t forget, our agents at Fisks work for you and always have your wants and needs in mind when dealing with us throughout.

THE WALKTHROUGH
During your agent’s walkthrough, they will take plenty of notes, measure things up, and look for unique selling points that make your home special. No two valuations are the same, remember that - Tom’s house down the street could be worth more on paper, but that could be because he’s recently had a new extension or new heating system installed. As well as room sizes, your agent will note things like original fireplaces, recently installed things like bathrooms and kitchens, and even office space - all of which are looked at favourably by buyers.

BOOST YOUR PROPERTY VALUE
Ask your agent if there’s anything you can do to boost your home’s appeal to buyers - every little helps and it all goes a long way to get the best price for your property. Why not give that kitchen a lick of paint if it’s needed or take years off that driveway by giving it a quick pressure wash. First impressions count, never forget that.

THE VALUATION
Once all the property information is gathered together, your chosen agent will give you their professional valuation of your property. But remember, your opinion matters. If you have a value number in mind then share it with your agent - at Fisks we’re more than happy to discuss the valuation... it is YOUR property after all.