Imagine Branches Sell 1 in 4 & 1 in 6 Houses Locally

Firstly, let me gloat a little for having confidently predicted Spain would win the World Cup in this column a month ago. I’m happy to challenge Paul the Octopus to a psychic duel anytime, any tank, anywhere!
 
Back to property-related matters. Last week we had the results of the latest Market Share Analysis in Watford and Bushey. This is where an independent company review the number of boards each agent has up locally, to see how they compare.
 
In Bushey we had 27% of the ‘SOLD’ boards, which is 5% ahead of the nearest rival. In Watford, we had 16%, again 5% ahead of the nearest rival. I was obviously delighted with both results, but particularly the Watford one which is our highest since opening 4 years ago. Watford has so many estate agents (20 in total), so to be recognised for selling one in every six houses in the area is testament that all our marketing efforts and our dedicated sales force are paying dividends.
 
As usual, what stands out from the reports is that while three of the top four agents for ‘FOR SALE’ boards were corporate companies, these businesses do not convert anywhere near the same percentage in to SOLD boards. There are two very good reasons for this.
 
Firstly, corporate agents are often more expensive on fees and can try to justify their commission by suggesting increased property valuations. The reality is often that these valuations are given to get the property onto their books, not because they have a magic wand they can wave to achieve higher figures. Those properties end up sitting on the market without interest and then are seen by potential buyers only when the asking price has been reduced. As a result, they’re on the market longer than is necessary and questions are asked as to why the price was reduced. 
 
Secondly we’d argue, based on our success, that the best quality Independent agents tend to be run by and employ the best quality sales people. Good sales people selling properties that are realistically priced logically leads to more sales.
 
It’s a contentious view, but certainly one that is evidenced time and again by these reports. That only leaves me to say well done to my team and thank you to those of you who choose to sell with Imagine! If you’re looking to sell, take a look at why we’re currently the number 1 agent in Watford and Bushey by visiting www.imagine-group.co.uk.