Working as an Estate Agent

[JRH1]

So, I'm about to begin a job as an estate agent working for a high end company based in London. I have never done this before and have no real experience in the area, so was wondering what I might be able to expect from the job?

Any existing agents out there have any tips for a newbie to the industry? I'm just trying to prepare myself as best as possible as I'd really like to be good at this!

[okgo]

Well you've got the first thing that helps in dealing with well off types, an overly long and posh sounding name

Joking aside (though I was being serious, estate agency must have the most double barrelled names of any job) you can expect it to be tough work, there will be senior people there who get the cream of the crop applicant wise, you will likely have to hit the phones, learn to take people saying no and all that. Also

What area and who is it?

You can do very well, but you will be hated, and I do mean that, everyone will think you're a tt when you tell them what you do.

And out of interest why did you do uni etc if you were going to be an estate agent?

[okgo]

How right was I then?

Seems you are skint, which probably means you are in sales instead of lettings?

IF you are good, you will earn plenty, if you're still skint in 6 months, you're no good.

[Mrs Muttleysnoop]

OP you will need a very thick skin, the general public can be real a*ses if they do not get their own way and will lie through their teeth. Make sure you tell the truth ie Property Misdiscription Act and make plot notes to cover your back.

I find with respect to you that a high end agent has taken you on without any experience, hopefully they will train you.

People always say moving home is one of the most stressful things in life. Trust me sitting your side of the desk is more stressful many times over! Good luck with it and you will meet some lovely people.

EDIT Something to remember is that people always think that their house has been under valued and the house they want to buy is over valued.

Edited by Mrs Muttleysnoop on Monday 30th December 21:20

[billzeebub]

Always act in the best interests of your client, the Vendor. It is all too easy to find yourself acting for the buyer, especially in the early days when you just want a sale. This is what distinguishes the good agents from the bad. I was based in Notting Hill for several years in a former life and worked for a notably 'straight bat' Agents, who won repeat business largely because of this fact. I always found being straight with Applicants about this won respect and ultimately sales. Reinforce to buyers that you act for the Vendor, as you will if and when they sell through you. In prime central London it can be like shooting fish in a barrel, but still try to behave ethically at all times.

[okgo]

Foxtons big issue was that the dog eat dog nature meant the sales people were only ever concerned with their buyers and getting a deal tied up. Ass about face.