What Makes a Top Buying Agent?
Chiltern Relocation named as one of the UK’s 50 Best Buying Agents
The team at Chiltern Relocation are delighted to be included in a prestigious list of the top 50 Buying Agents recently published by Henry Pryor. Henry is a British property expert and housing market commentator. He has worked in the UK residential property industry for decades and is known for his honest views on estate agents, market trends and industry practices. With over 1200 appearances on TV and radio, he has been described as ‘the BBC’s favourite property expert’. Chiltern Relocation has a close working relationship with Henry as we have recommended clients to each other in the past due to ‘best fit’ reasons. We are thrilled to be part of this recognised list of relocation professionals.
What makes an excellent Buying Agent?
A Buying Agent or Relocation Agent is far more than simply a home finder. Buying Agents assist individuals, families or companies in managing the process of moving to a new location for work related reasons or those who are looking to move for schooling or for a change of scene or even greener surroundings. Buying Agents help to minimise the stress and logistical challenges involved in relocating, whether it’s a local, national or an international move.
This is what a Buying Agent can do for you:
- Be Independent
- A good buying agent works only for buyers, not sellers
- No dual agency
- No referral fees from selling agents or developers
- No pressure to “make a deal happen”
- Deep Local Market Knowledge
- Will know their area street by street, not just by postcode
- What actually sells (not just what’s listed)
- Real achieved prices, not asking prices
- Which agents overprice, underprice, or quietly test the market
- Local planning issues, flood risks, noise problems or upcoming developments
- Local schooling knowledge in the state and private sector
- Best commuting options for the client
- Access to Off-Market and Pre-Market Property
- Good buying agents hear about homes before they hit the search engines
- Long-standing relationships with selling agents and local estate agents
- Awareness of “quiet sellers”
- Strong Analytical Skills
Full understanding of ‘What this property is really worth to you?’ This involves:
- Comparable sales analysis
- Rental yield and downside risk (if relevant)
- Clear reasoning for walk-away prices
- No emotional decision-making
- Negotiation Strength and a Cool Head
A top buying agent will be a skilled negotiator. This means they are:
- Comfortable saying ‘no’
- Good record in the Sealed Bids process
- Knows when to wait and when to react
- Understands seller motivation
- Able to negotiate the best deal for you
- Process Management and Detail
A Buying Agent does more than just find the property and negotiate on price – there are a lot of plates to keep spinning throughout the process.
- Coordinating solicitors, surveyors and other professionals
- Spotting problems early (title, covenants, planning, structure)
- Keeping momentum without rushing
- Translating technical issues into clear advice (vital for structural surveys)
- Acting as your project manager
- Clear Fees and Scope
A good agent explains upfront:
- Exactly what you get
- What they don’t do
- How and when they’re paid
- No surprise extras
- Reputation and Track Record
An excellent Buying Agent should be able to provide great references and demonstrate expertise in their field. You should look for:
- Long-term presence
- Client testimonials
- Great Google reviews
- Willingness to put you in touch with past clients
- Thoughtful public commentary (if visible in media)
- Be there after the deal is done
A great Buying Agent will provide additional services as part of the move including:
- Lists of recommended services such as plumbers/gardeners etc
- Local Area Orientation
- Introducing clients to like-minded people
Most importantly you need to feel a connection with the Buying Agent. This is someone you will be communicating with and spending time with on a regular basis. A good Buying Agent understands the drivers for your move and your personal and family dynamics and is someone you can trust to find your ideal home.
If you would like some guidance to answering the above questions or have any further questions, speak to Chiltern Relocation to find out more about our home finding and relocation service. Please do contact us on 01494 672086 or email enquiries@chilternrelocation.com
