Estate Agency Multi Branches – who’s fooling who? by Heather Hilder on October 24, 2018 “Estate Agency Multi Branches – who’s fooling who?” Many of our clients tell us that when considering agents with a view to selling their home, they were tempted to use an agent with several other branches. They were told that more branches equals more buyers, which on the surface sounds appealing. But don’t be fooled. The “more-buyers/faster-sale” claim is standard practice among multi-branch estate agencies. However, the reality can be quite different, with vendors being given false hopes at best, and a lack of accountability at worst. Firstly, most negotiators are targeted on their sales, and whilst their managers may encourage them to “share” their buyers with their ‘sister’ branches, many would rather swim in a pool of piranhas than let one of their buyers go to another agent – even within the same company! Secondly, the wider a buyer’s search area, the less chance there is of them buying in yours. If a buyer registers in a particular branch, it suggests they want to buy in the area covered by that branch – not in the area covered by another branch. Being offered “out-of-scope” locations can confuse and annoy purchasers who feel they are being “palmed off”. If they are indeed looking in another area, then the efficiency of the internet will certainly ensure that they are also registered in that area as well. Estate Agency is an intensely local business. We enjoy a great supply of buyers and work extremely closely with those who we know are really serious about buying in Brighton & Hove, and nowhere else. That’s why we can say, hand on heart, “we are THE Brighton & Hove specialists”. Call us on 01273 735237 to find out how we can help maximise your own sale – without any unfounded claims! And our straight-talking, sincere, advice is free!
