Local Estate Agents vs. Online Platforms

Published: 17/05/2024

When it comes to selling your property, a million questions suddenly fill your head…do you do this, or do you do that? Everyone will have a different opinion, and Google will just throw a load more options your way. This is one of the main reasons that homeowners put off selling; it is just such a daunting process. Today, we are looking at one particular question that always leads to a crossroads: should you enlist the expertise of a local estate agent or venture into the unknown world of online platforms? It’s a choice filled with considerations, each one boasting to have a variety of advantages over the other. We are obviously biased in our views, but we have good reason to be.

Why us? Why use an agent?

To begin, let's talk about the role of a local estate agent like us. These professionals are part of the local community, armed with top-secret knowledge of local market trends and dynamics. Unlike their online rivals, they offer a personal touch, building meaningful connections with clients that extend beyond emotionless transactions. Their physical presence within the community not only encourages trust but also allows for strong communication, thus providing a more tailored and responsive approach to meeting client needs. That is important to us.
 
One of the other standout benefits of opting for a local estate agent lies in their ability to provide invaluable guidance throughout the whole process. From initial consultations to property viewings and negotiations, they are trusted advisors, offering insights gained through years of experience. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an investor, this expertise can prove priceless when helping you make informed decisions every step of the way. While some platforms offer support, it may not match the level of assistance provided by a traditional estate agent, aka actual human beings. Sellers may need to handle negotiations, paperwork, and legal aspects themselves, which for most people isn’t something they want to take on while also juggling family life, jobs…and their sanity. For most people, it is money well spent – just check our reviews!

Local estate agents often possess an extensive network of contacts, ranging from mortgage advisors to solicitors and reliable contractors. This network, built on years of collaboration and mutual trust, can streamline the buying or selling process, saving both time and resources. In an era where time is of the essence, having access to a reliable network can make all the difference. If you want to come out of it with a good result and your stress levels minimal, then this is the route to go.
 
However much we are our own cheerleaders, we also wanted to be transparent about the reasons why some homeowners choose to use online platforms to assist with the sale of their property.

In more recent years, online platforms have emerged as competition in the property world. One of the main reasons is money. That’s a fact that we can’t swerve. Online platforms often offer lower fees compared to traditional estate agents, allowing you to save money. With their vast databases of listings (which claim to be user-friendly), they also provide convenience and accessibility. Buyers can browse through properties at any time from the comfort of their own homes, upload photos, provide descriptions, and communicate with potential buyers at any time.
 
With instant access to a broader pool of potential buyers, you may even find interest more quickly than through traditional methods, reducing the time your property spends on the market. But are they the right target audience? Without physical viewings, buyers may rely solely on online listings, which often leads to misunderstandings or dissatisfaction if the property does not meet their expectations in person. When it comes to online marketing, what you see isn’t always what you get, and that can open a can of worms further down the line. Just sayin’.

But Which Option Is Right For You?

Despite the appeal of online platforms, they do have huge limitations. The absence of human interaction can leave some buyers and sellers feeling overwhelmed, especially when faced with complex legal and financial matters. While algorithms can help match properties to buyers, they cannot replace the insights and personalised guidance offered by a local estate agent. The sheer volume of listings on online platforms can sometimes lead to information overload, making it challenging to distinguish between genuine opportunities and misleading advertisements. Online platforms can be crowded, making it challenging for your listing to stand out among others. You may need to invest additional time and effort in marketing to attract attention…basically, it’s a lot of time, effort and frustration for you.
 
In a nutshell, paying less does not get you more – it never has and never well. We know we said we would give a fair argument from both sides, but it’s a massive struggle…sorry!

The choice between using a local estate agent or an online platform ultimately boils down to personal preference and individual circumstances. By weighing the benefits of each option and considering your specific needs, you can make an informed decision. Whether you choose the familiarity of a local estate agent or the convenience of an online platform, the journey towards finding your dream home will be both exciting and scary…isn’t anything that is worth doing? It's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully before choosing the most suitable approach for your needs. We think working with us is the better option, but then again, we would.

Good luck. We hope that if you choose a local agent, they are the perfect fit for you and your family.
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