We would have to say not, or certainly not any time soon. You may think this is a biased opinion but considering the alternatives currently on offer, we can honestly say that we're not overly worried!
Broadly speaking, there are two main alternatives to using a traditional agent. The first is to do it yourself. After all, it's certainly not impossible to sell your own home. Some people do just that. But not many - and you need to ask yourself why.
The second alternative is to use an Internet-only agent. These tend to attract a lot of media interest because they seem to be so 21st-century. After all, so the argument goes, you can buy and sell practically everything else online, so why should property be any different? Yet, some 10 years after the start of the much-trumpeted "online property revolution" - and despite charging much lower fees than conventional firms, Internet-only agents still only account for a tiny proportion of total property sales from the 2-4% of the market share they have.
So, why is this?
Well, for the simple reason that that there is a lot more to selling your home than simply advertising it on the Internet. That's just the start. If you're considering the DIY route, for example, are you aware of the new consumer protection legislation? Would you know where to go to get an Energy Performance Certificate? Assuming you succeeded in generating enquiries, how would you qualify would-be buyers, to ascertain their financial circumstances and their ability to proceed with the purchase? The same goes for Internet-only agents. Will they arrange viewings and show prospective purchasers over your property? And if the first flurry of interest doesn't produce a buyer, what then? Remember, Internet agents charge upfront and do not offer refunds. They've already had their money regardless of whether they sell your property or not.
Traditional agents, on the other hand, will continue to work actively with you to refresh your marketing campaign and offer expert advice and guidance. Ultimately the traditional agent doesn't get paid unless and until they actually achieve a sale!
Of course, you can always dismiss all this as blatantly partisan. But just ask yourself this simple question. If DIY property sales are so easy, and if online agents do such a good job and offer such great value, how come some 95% of sellers still prefer to entrust a conventional estate agent with selling their most prized asset?
At Belgarum we pride ourselves on our energetic approach to marketing and our exceptional customer service. This coupled with our expert knowledge of the city of Winchester itself as well as the Winchester property market help us achieve the best possible price to the most suitable buyer, providing you with a sale resulting in the minimal amount of stress. If you would like a free no obligation market appraisal of your property please call the office on 01962 844460 or via our contact form.
