Choosing the right agent is ‘more important than ever’

WITH an increasing number of estate agents claiming to provide a focus on excellent customer service, the newly released Property Ombudsman scheme’s annual report makes for interesting reading. It reveals there has been a dramatic 32% surge in the number of formal complaints received against estate agent members.

A total of 1,220 formal complaints regarding sales were resolved with 60% of complaints being made by sellers.The top three causes of complaints were: communication and record keeping followed by marketing and advertising and instructions/terms of business/ commission/termination.

On the lettings and property management side a total of 1,965 formal complaints were resolved with 83% of complaints being supported by the Ombudsman. Half of the complaints were made by landlords, while 47% were made by tenants.The top three causes of complaints were: management (including repairs and maintenance), communication and record keeping and end-of-tenancy issues (e.g. deposits, disputes and damages).

It is more important than ever that your agent provides excellent customer service to all which will help you achieve the best during your sale or letting process from start to finish.

Lakin & Co’s continued commitment to excellent customer service and competitive fee structure has allowed the agency to carry out a high volume of business in the area.The firm utilises all the popular internet property portals including Rightmove, Zoopla, Primelocation and its own frequently visited website, coupled with traditional methods such as local newspaper advertising. Daily visitors to its prominent Uxbridge high street offices include many prospective buyers and tenants and it has an extensive database of existing applicants and contacts, which has inevitably enabled the team to achieve the best possible prices for clients while delivering an unrivalled level of service.

So, whether you are thinking of selling or letting in the near or distant future make sure you only instruct an agent who provides you with a focus on excellent customer service and commitment to getting you the best deal possible. Lakin and Co welcomes you to contact the team today on 01895 544 555 or pop into the friendly offices to book your free no-obligation property valuation.