Leading estate agent warns of nightmare stories from sellers who list homes through online retailers

Berkeley Shaw managing director John Baybut has warned of the nightmares faced when opting to use online estate agents.

The leading Merseyside estate agent explained that sellers have been forced to move from online retailers to the high street due to such poor service.

Berkeley Shaw have been operating within the region for over 30 years, with offices located in Crosby, Formby and Liverpool city centre.

The company also recently acquired Keppie Massie Residential to further expand their portfolio within the city.

Mr Baybut said: “Increasingly we are seeing disappointed sellers who are coming through our doors with nightmare stories of really poor service from online-only estate agents.

“Sellers are lured into the online-only estate agents by the low fees but what they get in return is a detached service from agents who are uncontactable when they are needed most.

“These horror stories are a recurring theme when it comes to selling most people’s biggest asset, experienced staff and local knowledge are absolutely paramount to ensuring the best possible results.

“We have a track record of adding value and securing the highest price for our clients and we do so as a result of our knowledge and understanding of the area in which we operate.”

The Financial Times reported that total properties sold in 2021 reached 1.5 million, more than in any year since 2007.

During this boom, the limitations of online estate agents are potentially highlighted by the fall in share value of the UK’s biggest online agent Purple Bricks, which has fallen 93% since 2017.

During the same period, Berkeley Shaw has grown by 10 times revenue and opened 3 additional offices.

Berkeley Shaw recently completed a listing on Victoria Road, Formby, with a record 8 day turnaround from viewing to completion.

Mr Baybut added: “Our ability to complete sales in record time are down to a whole multitude of factors including our network of contacts in legal and surveying meaning we can make transactions in rapid time.

Liverpool
The Ternary
Old Haymarket
Liverpool
L1 6ER
T: 0151 924 6000

Preston
6 Cross Street
Preston
Lancashire
PR1 3LT
T: 01772 284 606

Formby
The Beacons
School Lane
Formby
L37 3LN
T: 01704 651000

Maghull
21 Westway
Maghull
Liverpool
L31 2PQ
T: 0151 527 2700

Crosby
35 Liverpool Rd,
Crosby,
L23 5SD
T: 0151 924 6000

Southport
Heritage House
Hoghton St
Southport
PR9 0TE
T: 01704 651000

  • Berkeley Shaw Real Estate Limited. Company No. 05206927