7 Red Flags to Avoid
Selling your home in Bishop’s Stortford should be exciting, not stressful. Yet too many homeowners find themselves stuck with poor communication, few viewings, or no offers at all.
The truth? Choosing the right estate agent is often the single biggest factor between ‘sold’ and ‘still for sale’.
Here are 7 red flags every Bishop’s Stortford homeowner should look out for before signing with an agent.
🚩 1. Unrealistic Valuations
If an agent gives you a figure that sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
Overpricing might win them your instruction, but it kills early momentum when buyers compare your home online.
✅ Ask your agent to show real comparable sales data, not guesses.
🚩 2. Weak Marketing (or None at All)
A quick phone photo and a Rightmove listing won’t cut it.
Modern buyers expect video tours, social media exposure, and emotionally driven storytelling that makes your property stand out.
✅ Ask to see their last 3 property videos or social posts. Would they impress you as a buyer?
🚩 3. Poor Communication
If you’re chasing your agent for updates, something’s wrong.
Clear, regular communication keeps deals alive and prevents misunderstandings.
✅ Your agent should have a set contact schedule — ideally, weekly feedback reports.
🚩 4. Lack of Local Knowledge
Your agent should know Bishop’s Stortford’s micro-markets from Thorley Park and The Havers to New Town and the commuter routes into London.
✅ Ask them what’s recently sold nearby, and at what price per sq ft.
🚩 5. No Buyer Qualification
Unverified buyers waste everyone’s time. A good agent checks finances, chain positions, and motivation before scheduling a viewing.
✅ Ask how they qualify buyers, do they confirm proof of funds or a mortgage in principle?
🚩 6. Low Fees with No Value
It’s tempting to pick the cheapest fee on offer, but a low fee often comes with low effort.
Agents charging rock-bottom rates often cut corners on marketing, communication, or negotiation, ultimately costing you in the end sale price.
✅ Focus on value, not just cost. A great agent pays for themselves in results, not discounts.
🚩 7. No Track Record or Reviews
If an agent can’t show reviews, recent sales, or local case studies — they might be practising on you.
✅ Look for consistency: 4.8 + Google rating, regular testimonials, and visible results.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Selling a home isn’t luck, it’s strategy.
When you choose an agent who combines strong marketing, communication, and genuine local expertise, you don’t just sell, you succeed.
If you’re planning to sell in Bishop’s Stortford before 2026, let’s chat.
No pressure, just straight, professional advice on your best route to SOLD.
📞 Chris Clarke, haart Partner – Bishop’s Stortford & Harlow
🔗 www.chris-clarke.co.uk