A Practical Guide for Property Owners, Sellers & Landlords.
Whether you’re selling your home or renting out an investment property, choosing the right estate agent can make a huge difference — not just in price, but in speed, service, and overall peace of mind.
With so many agents offering similar promises, how do you separate the best from the rest? Here’s what to look for in 2025:
🔍 1. Local Knowledge is Non-Negotiable
A great agent doesn’t just work in the area – they know the area.
Ask yourself:
Do they know how to price your property accurately for current market conditions?
Can they speak confidently about local schools, transport, amenities, and trends?
Are they aware of recent comparable sales or rentals in your neighbourhood?
Agents with strong local knowledge often have active buyer and tenant databases – helping you move more quickly.
📈 2. Check Their Track Record
Ask for evidence. A reputable agent should be able to provide:
Recent listings and how long they took to sell/rent.
Asking price vs. achieved price statistics.
Case studies or testimonials from similar properties.
Average time to let/sell a property in your area.
Pro tip: Look up reviews on Google, Trustpilot, or AllAgents to see how they really treat clients.
💬 3. Evaluate Their Communication Style
How an agent communicates with you is how they’ll communicate with buyers or tenants.
Ask:
Do they return calls and emails promptly?
Are they proactive in giving updates?
Will you have a dedicated point of contact?
Do they offer transparency with feedback and negotiations?
You don’t want to feel like you’re chasing them – you want an agent who chases results for you.
📸 4. Review Their Marketing Strategy
A property is only as good as its exposure. Ask:
Do they use professionally edited photography?
Will your property be featured on major portals (Rightmove, OnTheMarket)?
Can they reach off-market or investment buyers?
A forward-thinking agent in 2025 uses digital marketing to cast a wide – and targeted – net.
💷 5. Understand Their Fees – and What’s Included
Typical agent fees for selling range from 1%–2% (plus VAT), while letting agents may charge 9%–13% of annual rent. But always ask:
Are there any upfront costs (e.g. photography, EPCs, listings, compliance)?
What’s included in the fee (viewings, marketing, negotiation, aftercare)?
Is there a tie-in period or withdrawal penalty?
The cheapest agent isn’t always the best – focus on value, not just cost.
🔐 6. For Landlords: Ask About Property Management
If you’re renting your property, decide if you want fully managed, let-only, or rent collection services.
A good managing agent should:
Handle tenant referencing and contracts.
Protect deposits and register them properly.
Arrange repairs and inspections.
Keep you compliant with changing UK legislation.
A poor one could cost you time, money – or worse, a legal headache.
🤝 7. Trust Your Instinct
When you meet an agent for a valuation or consultation, ask yourself:
Were they honest about the price and market conditions?
Did they listen to your needs – or just talk at you?
Would you trust them to represent your property?
Your gut feeling matters. This is a relationship – not just a transaction.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Choosing the right estate agent in 2025 is about more than just a flashy window display or a low fee. It’s about partnering with someone who understands your goals, communicates clearly, and has the tools, network, and knowledge to get you the best outcome.
Whether you’re in Stourbridge, Dudley, Wolverhampton, Walsall, or beyond – take the time to find an agent who earns your confidence. It’s one of the most important property decisions you’ll make.
Do you think we could be the right Estate Agent for you? Get in touch and we’ll guide you every step of the way! Giving honest, friendly, professional advice, we’d love to work with you.
01384 213 395📲
Trinity Property, 21 Wolverhampton Street, Dudley DY1 1DB 📍
