Ensure smooth sales process

WITH stock low and demand high, in certain housing markets across the UK it's most definitely a sellers' market for certain types of property.

One of the crucial factors for generating the best level of interest and ultimately securing the best possible offer is your choice of estate agent. After all, if you're prepared to pay someone in the region of 1.5 per cent of your biggest asset, you need to make an informed choice.

With more than 18,000 agents listing property on Zoopla.co.uk, there is clearly a great deal of choice.

Estate agency is a highly-competitive environment with fees being one of the major factors used to secure an instruction.

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In the last 10 years we've seen a fixed fee model come to the market with different fee levels for flats and another one for houses and then there is the online model which can undercut the traditional agent.

No matter who you go with or what fee model best suits you, there are some key skills you should make sure your agent demonstrates.

How will they market your property?

Zoopla research shows 92 per cent of buyers start their property search online. You need to be sure your agent has a great online presence and lists with the major property portals. You want your property in front of as many online eyes as possible.

Negotiation skills

Home owners are not negotiators, the agents are – leave it to the professionals. A good one can help you secure the best offer. However you should be able to pick up how good they are at negotiating when they come to pitch for your instruction.

The liaison between owner, buyer, solicitor and IFA is not a straightforward one. Choose an agent you feel you can communicate with. Chances are they'll be able to strike a good relationship with all parties and ensure a smooth sale.

Go local

A local agent will know the property stock in the area, the schools and supermarkets not to mention the travel information a prospective buyer to the area will want.

Find your local agents at: http://www.zo opla.co.uk/find-agents/