A guide to choosing the right property agent in today’s market

Nathan Emerson

CEO, Propertymark

To have peace of mind in your property journey, choose an agent with unrivalled professionalism, high standards and a comprehensive code of conduct.

Moving house is one of the biggest financial decisions many people make within their lifetime. For most, moving home tends to happen rarely. Even if you have recently moved, you might notice changes in the process due to evolving background laws. No matter how many times you move, it never quite feels familiar, and it can be stressful, daunting, and complicated. How can you approach it best?

Property agent requirements in the UK

Whether you are buying, selling or renting, invest time in researching the best professionals to work with to ensure a seamless process. Your chosen agent may come highly recommended or may have excellent reviews online, but what if you are starting from scratch, knowing little about your preferred agency before signing on the dotted line?

You might assume everything is regulated and everyone holds a qualification. In the UK, property agents must adhere to certain legal requirements. However, unlike doctors or solicitors, they do not operate within an overall regulatory framework, nor do they need official qualifications to complete their job.

Whether you are buying, selling or renting, invest time in researching the best professionals to work with to ensure a seamless process.

Regulation of property agents

Although the regulation of property agents is in discussion at the Government level, there is no precise timeframe regarding when — or even if — this will become mandatory. Propertymark has been campaigning passionately about this issue. As a professional membership body representing almost 18,000 property agents across the UK, there has been a long-standing heritage and ambition to ensure the highest standards from all members.

Propertymark is keen to see far-reaching regulation across the industry, helping to ensure there is universal confidence that any agent you choose to work with would be fully qualified, knowledgeable and legally bound by a comprehensive code of conduct aimed at protecting consumers.

Finding a property agent with security

Member agents are committed to a comprehensive code of conduct surpassing legal standards, quality pledges and assurances required within the law. Choosing a Propertymark agent ensures an unrivalled commitment to utmost professionalism and peace of mind. It also provides added assurance through access to various protections and recourses in case of concerns.