Job description

A Sales Negotiator or Estate Agent sells either residential or commercial property to prospective purchasers.

The job is essentially split into two functions: finding property to sell and finding buyers for the properties they are instructed on.

Before an instruction to sell a property is received, the negotiator must first advise the vendor of an accurate price guide for the property. Once instructed, the property must be marketed to purchasers via the press and the internet. The negotiator must then accompany buyers to view the property and then negotiate a price between buyer and seller. Once a price is agreed, the negotiator must assist both parties throughout the legal process until completion of the deal.

Quite often, sales negotiators are also involved in auctioneering and leasing of property.

Duties include:

• Sourcing new properties to sell.
• Providing accurate valuations of different types of property.
• Preparation of property details for marketing purposes.
• Marketing properties via different channels such as the internet and the press.
• Performing viewings of properties with potential purchasers.
• Negotiating a price acceptable to the vendor.
• The arrangement of conveyancing.
• Assisting with the compilation of Home Information Packs.
• Maintaining a thorough knowledge of property prices in your area.
• Handing over keys to buyers once a sale is completed.

Qualifications

Experience is the main qualification employers are looking for though a degree in a property related subject would enhance your prospects on entry.

Salary Snapshot

Recent salaries for roles advertised at time of writing (Nov 2009) include:

• £16-45,000 OTE plus benefits for an Estate Agent/Sales Negotiator in South West London.
• £21-60,000 OTE plus car and other benefits for a Senior Sales Negotiator in the West End, London.
• £50,000 OTE for an Estate Agent/Valuer in the West Midlands.
• £35,000 OTE for a Property Sales Negotiator in Liverpool.