It is just possible, says Tony Clarke, MD of Rawson Properties, that the high number of depressive and breakdown cases among estate agents is due not so much to the tough economic conditions but to the vilification some receive from clients.
'The estate agent is blamed, in most cases wrongly and unfairly, for a range of problems not of his causing and not under his control,' said Clarke. 'The public have to remember that, although the agent is the clients 'partner' in a property transaction (and should be working on his behalf), he has either only partial or no control over others involved who are capable of holding up a negotiation or the sale process'
The list of those in this category, said Clarke, includes the agents own agency or principal, the banks, some bond originators, the City Council and local municipalities, the relevant electricians, beetle and plumbing inspectors, the Deeds Office, conveyancers, the online media and newspapers, rental agents and/or tenants, bodies corporate and homeowners associations.
'Knowing that he is often powerless and may have to be endlessly patient, the agent should almost daily communicate the latest position to his client, expressing his concern. Even this, however, may not prevent the client blaming him for matters over which he has no control.
'A little sympathy and understanding from the public here would not go amiss: selling property can be rewarding but it is a career requiring great mental strength. The sensitive agent working hard on the clients behalf can be annihilated by having to bear unfair criticism from others'
For further information contact Tony Clarke on 021 658 7100 or email tony@rawsonproperties.com.
