Date Published 28 October 2026
Questions that reveal the service behind the valuation figure
By Kevin Edwards MNAEA, Sales Director at Layco Properties
Choosing an estate agent can affect the price, presentation, negotiation and progress of the whole move. Compare the quality of the advice and service, not just the valuation and fee.
Start with evidence not promises
Ask each agent to explain the comparable sales behind the suggested price. A convincing appraisal should consider recent sold evidence, current competition, condition, location and the likely buyer for your home. A high figure is not useful if it is designed mainly to win the instruction.
Discuss the difference between an asking price and an expected selling range. The agent should be able to explain how the launch price supports the marketing strategy rather than presenting it as a guarantee.
Understand who will do the work
Find out who will take the photographs, write the details, conduct viewings, negotiate offers and progress the sale. The person who attends the appraisal may not be the person you speak to later, so ask how the team communicates and who will remain accountable.
A smaller local team can offer continuity; a larger operation may offer extended coverage. What matters is whether calls are returned, information is recorded accurately and somebody takes ownership when a problem arises.
Compare marketing in detail
Portal coverage is important, but it is only one part of the plan. Review photography, floor plans, descriptions, social media, database matching and how the agent will present the strongest features of your home. Ask to see recent examples, including properties similar to yours.
Confirm what is included in the fee and whether any photography, withdrawal, premium-listing or cancellation charges apply. Read the agreement rather than relying on a verbal summary.
Ask how buyers are qualified
An offer amount alone does not tell you whether a buyer can proceed. A good agent should establish the buyer's chain position, funding, deposit, mortgage progress and proposed timescale, while handling personal information appropriately.
Ask how competing offers will be reported and how the agent manages conflicts of interest. You should receive clear facts and advice, but the decision about which offer to accept remains yours.
Examine sales progression
Many difficulties arise after an offer is agreed. Ask who contacts solicitors, mortgage advisers, surveyors and other agents in the chain, how often updates are provided and what happens if progress stalls.
The best sales progression is calm and persistent. It identifies missing information early, communicates accurately and avoids creating pressure that damages trust between the parties. An experienced agent who stays involved throughout the transaction can help you understand and resolve problems as they arise.
Choose the relationship as well as the price
Fees matter, but compare what you receive and the cost of a poor result. A slightly lower percentage can be a false saving if the marketing, negotiation or progression is weak.
Choose an agent whose advice is supported by evidence, whose terms you understand and whose communication style gives you confidence. You may be working together for several months, so clarity and trust are practical requirements, not optional extras.
Ready to discuss your Aylesbury move
If you are considering selling, Layco Properties can provide a straightforward, evidence-led market appraisal and a marketing plan built around your home and circumstances. Call us on 01296 791 960 to arrange an appointment.
