When most people think about estate agents, they picture someone sticking their home on Rightmove, hosting a few viewings, and then disappearing until it’s time to sign the paperwork.
But the truth is, if your agent is doing their job properly, there should be a lot more going on behind the scenes.
So if you’re wondering what you’re actually paying for, here’s a closer look at what a truly proactive, professional estate agent should be doing to earn your trust and their fee.
- Strategy First, Not “List and Hope”
The best agents don’t just take a few photos and launch your home the next day. At Brookings, we build a plan before your home even goes live, including who we’ll target, how we’ll market it, and how to price it for maximum interest.
A proper strategy means a stronger interest from day one.
- Real Buyer Matching And Not Just Waiting
Too often, we see agents waiting for the right buyer to come along. But in reality, your agent should be actively matching your home with buyers on their database, making calls, sending tailored emails, and setting up early viewings.
You deserve momentum, not just a listing.
- Feedback That Actually Helps
Every viewing is an opportunity to not just sell your home, but also to learn. A great agent will gather detailed feedback from each viewing and use it to adapt the strategy if needed. Is it the price? The photos? Something small that’s fixable?
At Brookings, we contact all of our clients every week. Communication is paramount to us in helping them achieve their property goals.
You’ll know what’s working and what needs attention.
- A Confident, Calm Negotiator
When offers start coming in, this is where your agent really earns their stripes. You want someone who knows how to protect your bottom line, ask the right questions, leverage your position in your favour and keep your sale moving forward even if the bumps come.
At Brookings, we never just “pass on” offers. We carry out comprehensive checks on anyone making an offer on your home by asking for proof or deposits and a certificate to show they can get a mortgage too. We negotiate and advise to help get you the strongest possible price.
- Progression Matters
Once a sale is agreed, the job isn’t done there. Initially, we will carry out the legally required anti-money laundering checks on your buyers and then you will have your own team to ensure the sale never loses momentum and reaches a successful exchange of contract. Our dedicated sales progressor Nicole will work with you and your Brookings agent to move the sale right the way through to completion.
A great agent stays in touch with solicitors, buyers, and you, chasing paperwork, updating timelines, and keeping everyone focused. This can be the most stressful part of the process unless it’s handled properly.
A good agent shows up. A great agent steps up with a strategy, a plan and the energy to get the job done.
If you’re wondering what’s possible with the right support behind you, why not book a no-pressure in-person valuation with Brookings? You’ll get a clear picture of where you stand, what your home might be worth and what we’d do to help you move forward.
Send an email to salesteam@brookings.co.uk or give us a call at 020 8591 9088 to book a free in-person valuation.
