Wright Marshall Defend High Street Agents on BBC Breakfast

Robert Reed, Head of Wright Marshall’s Tarporley office, has appeared on BBC Breakfast this week to discuss the values of high street versus online agents in today’s housing market.

As one of the region’s leading estate agents, Robert is one of the BBC’s go-to property experts; and shared his views on the role of high street agents in the digital age, in light of the news of two national estate agents seeing a drop in profits. Robert advised that although online agents may tempt house sellers with one-off fees in a market which has seen some instability, it is the final outcome which is the most important part of selling a home.

“It’s the price you achieve at the end that’s the most important, and what value agents can add to this,” Robert commented, “Whether it’s an online only agent or a hybrid model like Wright Marshall with high street offices as well – to me it should be about the end outcome, what price you are achieving, not just what fee you are paying. A lot of high street agents have in fact profited from picking up work from the online agents second time around!”

Robert went on to discuss how the competition of online agents is ideal for pushing the high street agent to provide the best customer service: “It’s forcing high street agents to up their game, to offer a better service. If you don’t provide a great service, you don’t deserve the work. There’s a world of opportunity out there, I think it’s a great challenge – bring it on!”

With more than 13 years of experience, Robert is increasingly called upon by media organisations such as the BBC to offer expert advice and insight into all matters relating to property from residential sales, valuations, auctions and tenders through to planning and development as well as land and agricultural sales. If you would like to discuss your property with Robert, contact the Tarporley office today.

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