"Deciding on price (part two)"

We know that UK house prices have rocketed over recent years. However, establishing an accurate asking price that will optimise your chances of selling at the highest possible price within a reasonable timescale is both an art and a science.

Estate Agents’ valuations can vary tremendously. Some agents attempt to win your instruction by flattering you with a high but unrealistic price. Some are more responsible and advise the right price from day one. Some, due to inexperience or unfamiliarity with current buyers in the market, haven’t got a clue and get it plain wrong – which can cost you time and money.

We take the pricing issue very seriously, and much consideration is involved before we recommend an asking price.

As a rule of thumb, ask two or three reputable agents to suggest the optimum market value and base your pricing decision on these valuations. It is critically important that you quote the right price from day one and achieve or exceed it, rather than quoting a high price and encouraging low offers.

Ultimately the critical part is to select your estate agent on the strength of their service, reputation and marketing plan, and not simply their valuation or fee level.