Technology has changed the way property is marketed and sold. Online listings, virtual tours and digital paperwork all play an important role in today’s market. But at the heart of estate agency, the real question is whether it’s still about people — or just about process.
The Rise of Viewing Guides
Many agents now rely on “viewing guides” — individuals whose role is simply to unlock the door and let prospective buyers look around. More often than not, they have never seen the property before, have little knowledge of it, and crucially, they are not estate agents.
On paper, this approach may appear efficient. After all, if a buyer likes what they see online, the viewing itself might seem like a formality. But in reality, property is never just about four walls. It’s about lifestyle, community, and the feeling a buyer gets when they step inside.
Why the Experience Matters
For us, estate agency has always been about the experience. Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions people make, and the way that journey is handled makes all the difference.
An experienced estate agent doesn’t just open doors; they:
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Guide and advise buyers with genuine market knowledge.
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Tell the story of the property — its strengths, its potential, and the lifestyle it offers.
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Understand the seller’s goals and present the home in its best light.
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Build trust by answering questions, handling concerns, and giving honest advice.
This is the human element that no viewing guide or outsourced staff member can replicate.
Our View at Oakfield
At Oakfield, we believe estate agency is, and always will be, a people business. The agent who meets you at the door should know the property inside out. They should understand the local market, the neighbourhood, and — most importantly — what matters to you as a buyer or seller.
We embrace technology to make processes quicker and smoother, but when it comes to the heart of estate agency — guiding people through one of life’s biggest decisions — nothing replaces experience, knowledge, and genuine human connection.
Final Thoughts
Estate agency isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about trust, relationships, and the journey. For us, “people buy people” is not outdated — it’s the foundation of everything we do.
If you’d like to learn more about how Oakfield makes buying or selling a property a better experience, please feel free to get in touch with our team. Check out our contact details here.