Should you choose an independent estate agent?

Or, should you choose a corporate estate agent?

They both have positive qualities, so which is the better option? We have a strong belief in the ethos that independent agents personally care about their clients and strive to deliver paramount levels of customer service, which cannot always be replicated in a corporate environment. 

Independent estate agents are commonly based in one branch, or with employees who are familiar with that area, many having lived there all their lives. Having staff that are well acquainted with the local landscape is a great advantage, they are the people best to advise on transport links, local amenities and the great places to visit. A corporate agent may not have the same familiarity with the local area and would lose a few points in favour of an independent agent.

There is a stereotypical wives tale that corporate agents can access a greater deal of stock and more registered buyers compared to their independent counterparts and this may have been true way back when. However times have changed and thanks to online portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla, any agent, whether corporate, independent or online can access those buyers, rectifying the assumption that a corporate estate agency has its fingers in more pies.

A corporate agent has the benefit of widespread recognition, with their branding and a nationwide name has an obvious advantage. However, in a local area, a successful independent agent will have a recognisable brand within that community, which is a greater advantage in targeting their demographic. With social media, independent estate agents have a great way of getting their brand in front of many people, locally and nationally. For abbotFox social media works well for engaging with people who already live in Norfolk but also people who want to move to Norfolk.

abbotFox specialises in homes for sale in Norfolk

The company was founded by the current owners and they have a real drive and enthusiasm to maintain clients high expectations of the company. On the flip side, corporate agents are run by managers who have been brought in to work for their company and may not have that same appetite to drive the company forward and maintain the client-focused experience.

Being able to develop relationships with other local businesses is another prime advantage of an independent agent. Having close ties with property-related industries such as solicitors, mortgage advisers and financial advisers creates strong ties in the local community, which can lead to other beneficial results. Having those connections can speed up home sales, as well as create a strong local economy.

Are you currently thinking of selling your home? 

We have had an extensive number of applicants registering for property throughout Norwich and Norfolk, meaning we can guarantee active buyers in your area. With the spring sun shining bright, now is the ideal time to sell. 

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