Along with journalists and traffic wardens, estate agents have historically been less popular than Facebook friends who spoil Game of Thrones finales.
But when it comes down to it, a skilled estate agent can make the business of buying or selling a home far less stressful . . . even enjoyable.
As with most jobs that revolve around clients, there really is no such thing as a typical day in an estate agency. However, there are certain things you’ll be doing on most days.
Attending meetings
If a week is a long time in politics, a day can be an age in an estate agency. New properties come on the market, offers come in and there are sales targets to be met.
So most offices will start the day with a team meeting to get everyone up to speed. Thankfully, coffee and croissants are mandatory.
Dealing with clients
Most sellers will call around local estate agents to find the right fit for them and their property – who’s going to market it best and help achieve the best possible sale in the shortest time?
While some agencies have a specific valuer, in smaller businesses all the agents will undertake valuations.
This is an opportunity to show off your knowledge of the area and the current market.
Creating the brochure
If you get the gig, you could be responsible for arranging photographs and particulars of the property then writing an enticing schedule – now where did you put that dictionary of cool words to describe Seventies kitchens?
Taking viewings
If you don’t want a desk-bound work life, this could be the job for you. You’ll spend a good portion of your day visiting potential new clients in their homes, as well as showing renters and buyers around properties.
Negotiating deals
An estate agency is a buzzing, fast-paced environment and you’ll constantly be on the go. Between viewings you’ll be catching up on paperwork and emails, as well as fielding calls from potential buyers and renters.
You’ll also be organising open viewings and closing dates for the properties on your books and carrying out the all-important negotiating when offers come in.
Enjoying yourself
As well as the attractive salary, the perks of the job include the buzz of introducing buyers to their dream home and the satisfaction of helping sellers achieve a good price.
If this sounds like the job for you, check out s1jobs for the best vacancies