Perhaps it's because I am interested in property, or maybe I am nosy, but I regularly overhear people discussing the housing market and what is happening to prices.
Given that our home is such an important asset, it is not surprising that so many take an interest, but with increased access to information on the internet and various TV shows, it seems a growing number of people have become experts'.
Amongst my peer group, most of whom are educated and have professional careers, their opinions on the housing market and valuations vary greatly- some bullish, some bearish. Regardless, they are all experts!
With the number of online estate agents popping up there has been a lot of debate over the service offered and in particular, valuations and whether there is the need for a traditional expert'.
On one side of the fence is the voice of the seasoned estate agent who wholeheartedly believes in the benefit of their approach, whilst on the other, is the CEO of the latest online agent, who claims to be shaking up the industry'.
Personally, I think the property market can accommodate the earnest agent and the online agent, no matter their differing views on valuations.
If I lived in a terraced house where my home was one of many similar properties, then I am sure that an online agent would serve me very well.
On the other hand, if my home were unique then having a seasoned pro would be my ideal solution.
We have all seen or heard of an agent over-inflating a valuation to win business or simply taking their cue from the owner by asking for their opinion of value.
Perhaps less sinister - but equally alarming - is the gut feel' valuation. In my experience, I have seen this approach taken by individuals within all sectors of estate agency.
Rather than fighting against the online agents, it would be better if as an industry we focused on ensuring that where a valuation is required, it is supported with consistent and high level of professional standards - ensuring the service we offer is always worth paying for.
*The Secret Agent has been in property for almost 20 years and trained as a Chartered Surveyor. He enjoys nothing more than being involved in property and has invested in, renovated, developed and sold plenty of property for both himself and clients.
(In between selling property this agent loves nothing more than being involved in rugby and whilst slower and heavier, continues to be as involved as possible.)
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