Interpreting buyer feedback following a property viewing can be pivotal in moving them towards a decision to buy. A well-trained estate agent is very much attuned to interpreting feedback, and should be able to convey this, and its meaning, to the seller within minutes of gaining this valuable psychological insight.
Buyers tend not to be quite so frank when being shown a property by the owner (“It’s lovely – we’ll get back to you”), but are more likely to express their thoughts and feelings openly with an estate agent. This is one of the reasons that we strongly recommend accompanied viewings wherever possible. This helps us understand our buyers and allows us to fine-tune our marketing efforts. Our clients tell us that sincere post-viewing feedback significantly helps to reduce the stress of selling, which is surely one of the most compelling reasons for appointing us to represent you in your sale.
But should you find yourself showing buyers around your own property, here’s our guide to how to interpret their comments:
What the Buyer Says : |
What this Means to You, the seller: |
| The property is too small for us | They have seen larger properties for the same price |
| We like your property, but have seen others we prefer | They have seen a property that offered them better value for money |
| The garden is too small for us | Other houses offered them larger gardens for the same price |
| The street is too busy | They have seen similarly priced properties in quieter streets |
| We’d need to do too much work on the property | The seller may need to make the property more saleable, or more fully reflect its condition in the price |
| We’ll think about it | A polite way of saying “it’s not for us!” |
| I’m sure you’ll find a buyer for this | A polite way of saying “it’s not for us!” |
| How long has it been on the market? | They could possibly be interested, but may be concerned if lots of other people have previously rejected the property |
| Have you had any offers? | They could possibly be interested. They could be reassured if other people are interested too, or scared off if they are facing competition. More investigation required here! |
| The carpets/windows/boiler, etc. need replacing | They could well be interested, but want to justify a possible offer below the asking price. |
| When do you want to move out? | They are definitely interested. Closing skills required. |
| Could I bring my partner round? | She/He will probably buy it if they can persuade their partner. Skill required in handling the second viewing. |
| Will you be leaving that cupboard? | They are possibly quite interested. Closing skills required. |
| Is the roof insulated? | They are possibly quite interested. Closing skills required. |
| What are the neighbours like? | They are possibly quite interested. Closing skills required. |
The listening skills of a good estate agent are especially valuable during accompanied viewings, so when your time comes to sell, choose your agent wisely! Choose Crane & Co Estate Agents
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