Haart Didn't Move Us (Haart)

Member Name: jfm_uk

Product:	Haart
Date:	05/10/00 (354 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good at selling their services to you!

Disadvantages: Service varies form branch to branch

Haart is the high steet name of what used to be Woolwich property services. I have had mixed experiences dealing with both Woolwich and Haart at different branches, whch probably goes to show that the level of service is not entirely consistant across locations.

The first time we used Woolwich as the sole agent to sell our house, we had a good experience, the staff were friendly and helpful throughout the process and worked closely with our solicitor. I found the valuation process to be thorough, and the sales particulars were produced to a high standard. We very soon had some suitable prospective purchasers round to view the property, and I got the impression that the viewers were well informed before they turned up. We managed to achieve a prompt sale at terms which were agreeable to all concerned. I would say however that the agency fees were probably above average at the time, we paid about 3% of the selling price. On the whole though, I feel that the agency really did their job well.

The second time we attempted to sell a property, this time through another branch of (formerly Woolwich) now Haart, I'm disappointed to say that our experience was nowhere near as satifactory. Although the negotiator was keen to make a good impression, and quickly valued the house, I feel that the valuation was higher than the true value ( I wouldn't have paid it!), however, after much discussion, we agreed to go ahead at the recommended price. Surprise surprise, there was little if any interest. The external photographs were taken from a poor angle, on a stormy day, with a lamp post and next door's overgrown hedge dominating the scene, and the picture having a totally oppressing feel to it. We complained about this, and eventually it was redone. The situation wasn't helped by our property being advertised in the local press, but listed as being in a completely different location to us! We also found that the ageent was sending people to 'driv
e by' the property, rahter than booking official viewings. Altogether, I got the distinct impression that the agent really wasn't trying to shift our property, and that we were viwed as a nuisance if we tried to complain at all. In the end, we were totally disheartened, and took the property off the market. We are now about to try again with a different agent. Having been locked in for the 16 weeks of the sole agency agreement with the other lot.

This says to me that you can't expect good service just because the name is a familiar high street one. I would recommend that you choose an agent by recommendation if at all possible, or perhaps keep a keen eye on who is selling properties fastest in your area. Don't be sucked in by vague promises of higher prices, or you may end up locked into an agreement with an agent that isn't really working as you'd like.

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