Local Estate Agents

The term ‘local estate agent’ is a familiar term to those who live in a European country. Local estate agents are especially prominent in Wales, Scotland, United Kingdom and Ireland.

Estate agents are similar to real estate agents in the United States. They market and sell available properties. Some estate agents also rent or ‘let’ apartments and homes but many focus only on selling, and leave the marketing of rental properties to other, specialized agents.  

The origin of the term ‘estate agent’ is historic. If you are a fan of old movies, you may have seen these agents depicted in classic English movies. Estate agents were then responsible for managing the estate, hiring and managing staff and handling the day-to-day issues of a large estate.  

Like U.S. real estate agents, local estate agents handle all aspects of marketing homes and land, what the English simply call ‘property’. The estate agent will post a sign, publish marketing materials and post the home or property on a regional web site to attract buyers.

While many reputable local estate agents belong to one or both of the recognized organizations for property agents. These organizations do provide guidelines and uniformity in the approach to sales, marketing and client interaction but, unlike the much regulated real estate market in the United States; the markets in Europe are very poorly regulated. As a result, most sellers and buyers of property will tell you how dishonest and irresponsible transactions are more the rule than the exception. With the advent of better governmental agency oversight and the concerted effort of the property and realty organizations, regulation is improving and fair and honest transactions are becoming more common.   

As with any service provider or specialty service, we would encourage you to do your research before you hire a local estate agent. Look at references and certification or other professional affiliation to help you decide. Ask neighbors and friends for references and ask detailed questions about their experience with the estate agent.