Master your valuations – key questions to ask the estate agents before you instruct

Selling your home is a major decision—financially and emotionally—so choosing the right estate agent is critical. Whether you’re in Newark, Southwell, or the surrounding areas, selecting a reputable, experienced agent like Alasdair Morrison & Mundys can make all the difference between a smooth, profitable sale and months of missed opportunities.

Here’s what you need to know when preparing to choose the best agent to represent your property:


1. Understand What You’re Paying For

Don’t be swayed by the lowest fee. Most agents operate on a percentage basis, and while cost matters, a low fee doesn’t always mean value for money. An effective agent will justify their fee by securing the best price, reducing time on the market, and offering seamless support throughout the process.

Ask for a full breakdown of all fees—including extras like anti-money laundering checks, EPC arrangements, upfront marketing fees or withdrawal penalties—so you can make a properly informed decision.


2. Ask About Contract Terms

Some agents tie sellers into lengthy agreements, sometimes up to six months. If you’re unhappy with their performance, this can leave you stuck. Ask upfront about minimum contract lengths, notice periods, and cancellation terms. Alasdair Morrison & Mundys keep our agreements transparent and flexible, ensuring you stay in control of your sale.


3. Demand Evidence for the Valuation

A confident valuation should be backed up with comparable recent sales, current demand and market insight—not guesswork. We always provide clear, local data when valuing homes in Newark and Southwell, so you can price your property competitively and realistically.


4. Review Their Marketing Plan

Modern marketing goes beyond listing your home on property portals. Ask potential agents:

  • Will they use professional photography and floorplans?

  • Do they promote through social media and email campaigns?

  • Can they provide virtual tours or drone imagery if appropriate?

At Alasdair Morrison & Mundys, we tailor our marketing strategies to suit your property and your goals. Every home deserves a professional, high-impact launch to attract serious buyers from day one.


5. Ask About Buyer Conversion

Getting your home seen online is just the first step. The real test is whether the agent can convert online interest into in-person viewings. We use dedicated tech systems and buyer-matching tools to ensure maximum visibility, then follow up proactively to encourage viewings and offers.


6. Check Their Offer Negotiation Process

Negotiation is a skill, and not all agents excel at it. When offers are received, a good agent will work hard to push them higher—maximising the sale price and justifying your property’s full potential. Our team is experienced in securing the best outcomes for sellers, backed by decades of local success.


7. Make Sure They Have a Plan B

If your home hasn’t sold after a few weeks, what’s next? An experienced agent should have a Plan B in place: refreshed marketing, adjusted pricing strategy, or different buyer outreach. At Alasdair Morrison & Mundys, we closely monitor performance and adapt our strategy to keep your sale moving forward.


Final Thoughts: Choose on Results, Not Just Cost

It’s tempting to choose the cheapest agent—but doing so could cost you thousands if they fail to secure the best price or attract the right buyers. Instead, compare agents based on their track record, approach to marketing, and ability to negotiate.

A small difference in fee is nothing compared to the potential loss from a price reduction, extended time on the market, or a failed sale.


Ready to Move?

At Alasdair Morrison & Mundys, we specialise in achieving the best results for sellers across Newark, Southwell and the surrounding areas. If you’re thinking of selling your home, contact our team today to arrange a free, no-obligation valuation. We’ll provide a detailed market appraisal, a transparent plan, and expert advice to get you moving.

Click here to book your free valuation

Share the Post: