Importance of agents’ own websites emphasised in new survey

A survey of sellers shows that 61 per cent of them visit the agent’s website before instructing them.

According to respondents the most important features on an agent’s website are quality images, the search function, and for the website to be easily viewed on a mobile.  

Other aspects mentioned included video tours, local housing market information and the ability to book viewings online. 

When it came to the most important aspects regarding information about properties, 72 per cent of respondents said floorplans were essential, quality of images was again mentioned, as was the description of the property and map or Streetview.

The survey was conducted by Fine & Country in conjunction with the Property Academy. Over 2,300 buyers and sellers who had moved home during 2021 took part in the survey.

“This just shows the importance of having a good website and a strong digital presence” explains Nicky Stevenson, managing director of Fine & Country UK.

“The pandemic both prompted and accelerated new ways of marketing a property digitally. Many respondents pointed out that they would like to see more virtual tours on agents’ websites, along with more virtual tours on the portals. Virtual tours and videos continue to grow in importance and are becoming a must-have in an agent’s marketing quiver. It opens up the property to a far wider audience and helps buyers to view a property from the comfort of their home.”

Stevenson says that despite people wanting more digital elements when searching for a property or marketing their homes, when it comes to communication methods between themselves and their agent, sellers preferred feedback over the phone. 

“Interesting to note that Zoom or chat was the least preferred method. With many people working remotely and conducting much of their business over video calls, we are perhaps seeing signs of people feeling a certain fatigue when it comes to this type of communication” she says.

“People are looking for trustworthy, knowledgeable agents who have the ability to successfully market their property, who are willing to provide regular feedback and expert advice over the phone.”