As technology continues to transform the property sector, the importance of good advice and a personable service has never been more important, writes Templeton Robinson Partner and Director Patrick Palmer. The modern real estate sector here strives to provide an exemplary level of service to both buyers and sellers in an industry supported by a plethora of branches, boards, window displays and locally-based teams.
But is that enough? Are customers demanding more from their estate agent and is the industry adapting to change as quickly it needs to?
In the last decade, improvements in digital technology and the advancement of social media have transformed how we communicate with our customers and how we showcase the properties we offer. From virtual reality – and virtual ‘viewings’ – 3D cameras, instant mapping that identifies public services, schools, shops and restaurants nearby, online brochures and videos, it really is a consumer’s market focused strongly on property and on those seeking a better lifestyle at the best possible price.
We’ve never been hungrier for information – and this information revolution has dramatically transformed how we operate. At Templeton Robinson, we’ve adapted quickly and revolutionised our communication channels and our online offerings to ensure customers get the information they want, when they want it.
However, the real fundamentals of estate agency practice and the benefits which estate agents provide have not changed at all.
What people value most is experience, local knowledge, guidance and advice – a tangible relationship that provides the security and support required for one of the most expensive purchases and investments one is likely to ever make.
Finding the right estate agent is crucial to ensuring that a process which can be stressful runs as smoothly as possible. The knowledge, insights and experienced-based advice which we provide can be invaluable. It saves time, provides reassurances when they’re required and we are always on hand when questions are asked.
We negotiate so that you don’t have to. We undertake viewings so that you don’t have to – and we liaise with other agents, solicitors and other bodies important to the sale or purchase, so that you don’t have to. Making sure that the best deal is done as quickly and efficiently as possible is our priority, so that you have peace of mind every step of the way.
By recognising early how technology and innovation can benefit our customers, we have solidly grown to establish one of Northern Ireland’s most modern, innovative estate agency practices. However, our success rests firmly on what matters most – the relationships we have with our clients.
For three decades, Templeton Robinson has combined stellar local property knowledge with advice from across a strong network of branches in areas covering South and East Belfast, Lisburn and across North Down, from Bangor to Holywood and beyond.
Backed by experience and by staying at the forefront of innovation, we know we will always meet our clients’ needs quickly and be in the best possible position to help realise their dreams and ambitions.
The worlds of property and technology will continue to evolve and converge but will never replace a personable, attentive service in managing the sales or buying process from start to finish.
To conclude, if you want to maximise one of the biggest investments you may have, technology is crucial.
However, in our view, it’s equally important as having a strong and beneficial one-to-one relationship with your dedicated agent, who will carefully and expertly guide you through this very important and often complicated process.
At Templeton Robinson, we pride ourselves on being innovative and forward looking.
And, when it comes to selling or buying, we believe traditional communication methods are key – so much can be quickly and easily achieved by meeting face-to-face and speaking regularly on the phone.
Simple, yet highly effective.
