For those estate and lettings agents working from home in the next few weeks this may be exciting or daunting. Either way it is really important for anyone working from home to have a clear plan for the weeks ahead and also for their day ahead.
Managers and business owners should look at each staff member’s skill set and plan accordingly. This may mean a variation from their current job role.
If you are or have new starters in the business– are you concerned there may be gaps in their knowledge without colleagues around to support them?
It is important to be prepared… so depending on each person’s job role, have a think about what they need to achieve and put it in the context of either helping clients or ongoing business generation. As long as your focus is those 2 areas, you won’t go far wrong.
So, in terms of advice – how well do you know your Landlords?
How confident are they in chasing unpaid rent? Would they benefit from a full management service now, in the light of potential issues with tenants paying rent? Are they also up to date with any incoming legislation?
How well do you know your tenants? What industry do they work in? Can we help manage their rent payments and negotiate between them and their Landlord if they are at risk of job loss?
Do you have CP12 gas safety checks due in the next few weeks? Is it worth preparing these in advance? Give Landlords the choice and demonstrate your expertise. Have you got any outstanding repairs that should be focused on as urgent?
In terms of Vendors – do you know enough about their circumstances – do they need to move? If so what advice can you give? Should they consider auction for security of sale for example? How can you facilitate viewings?
Consider your Vendors – how well do you know them?… are they living alone and recently bereaved? Are they self-isolating? How can you help?
Your role as Property expert within your community has never been more important.
If you have staff who are not confident in their knowledge – give them access to training and support – whether that’s You Tube videos, or in-house training file notes, or subscribing to an elearning resource.
These times may be tough, but for those agents who advise and support and ensure their staff are the most expert they can be, then the future will be more in control.