It's a common scenario: you're looking to sell your family home, and the first thing many people consider is the estate agent's fee. It's natural to want to save money where you can, but we often see vendors overlook a crucial point: the cheapest fee doesn't always equate to the cheapest agent. In fact, a poor negotiator can cost you significantly more in the long run.

At Courtyard, we pride ourselves on being experts at selling family homes. Over the last two years alone, we have successfully sold 145 homes in the local area. More impressively, through our dedicated and expert negotiation, we've collectively secured an astounding £1,109,000 above the asking price for our valued clients. This isn't just a statistic; it's a testament to the power of skilled negotiation and a strategic approach.

The True Cost of a 'Cheap' Agent

Imagine two scenarios. Agent A offers a very low fee, perhaps 0.75%. Agent B, with a proven track record, charges 1.5%. At first glance, Agent A seems like the obvious choice. However, if Agent A consistently sells homes at or just below the asking price due to a lack of negotiation prowess, while Agent B consistently achieves 5% or more above the asking price, the picture changes dramatically.

For a £400,000 family home, a 5% uplift means an extra £20,000 in your pocket. Even after Agent B's higher fee, you're still significantly better off. The 'saving' on Agent A's fee quickly evaporates when compared to the lost potential earnings. This is why we firmly believe that investing in an agent with strong negotiation skills is not an expense, but a profitable decision.

Our Proven Strategy: Competitive Pricing and Expert Negotiation

Our approach is carefully crafted to maximise your return. We start by setting a competitive asking price. This isn't about underpricing; it's about strategically positioning your home to generate significant interest and attract a wider pool of potential buyers. A well-priced home creates buzz and often leads to multiple viewings and offers.

Once interest is established, our expert negotiators step in. This is where our experience truly shines. We don't just present offers; we actively work to drive the price up. We understand the local market intimately, know how to highlight your home's unique selling points, and are adept at managing multiple offers to create a competitive bidding environment. Our goal is always to secure the absolute best possible price for you, ensuring you don't leave any money on the table.

Beyond the Price: A Smooth and Stress-Free Sale

Beyond the financial gains, expert negotiation also contributes to a smoother, less stressful selling process. A skilled agent can navigate complex situations, manage buyer expectations, and keep the sale on track, reducing the likelihood of delays or fall-throughs. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially when you're managing a family and planning your next move.

Choosing an estate agent is one of the most significant decisions you'll make when selling your home. Don't let a seemingly low fee blind you to the potential for a much greater return. Focus on an agent who can demonstrate a clear strategy for achieving the best possible price, backed by a track record of success.