Agent local knowledge number one consideration for sellers
An agent with good knowledge of the local area and market is most important to prospective sellers deciding who to invite out to value their home, according to the latest research among thousands of Rightmove users*.
The findings reveal that for 74% of sellers local knowledge is among the most important things they look for when shortlisting an agent to invite out for a valuation. This was the clear leader in spite of the survey giving sellers the ability to state more than one answer, but also of significance is the agent’s brand (41%), staff expertise (28%) and the range of services an agent offers (28%).
The research forms part of the free Rightmove seminars that have been taking place across the country, to try and help agents differentiate themselves from their competition and ultimately to win more instructions.
In lettings, a separate Rightmove landlord survey** found that staff expertise is the most important factor when they are choosing an agent (97% of landlords said it was important), followed by recommendation from others (94%), and the fees the agent charges (94%).
Rightmove’s Commercial Director Miles Shipside says:
“This research is intended to help make sure agents are communicating the parts of their business that are most important to sellers and landlords when they’re trying to win instructions, both on Rightmove and in their own marketing. The millions of visitors to Rightmove are engaged users who come back an average of four times per month, so it’s really important that agents keep their content updated and refreshed to impress their local target audience. There are already some great examples of quality agents differentiating their messaging, services, and property descriptions, but more could do more and agents say the seminars really help.”
