Calls for estate agents 'to be fair'
ESTATE agents have been called upon today to sign up to a new code of conduct that ensures customers are treated fairly.
Consumer magazine Which? has put together a 10-point 'We promise' code, which it is calling on all agents to sign up to and display in their offices.
The code includes a promise from estate agents that they will value a property accurately, declare any conflict of interest and pass on any offer for a property immediately and in writing.
It also pledges that they will not include any unfair terms in contracts, and will ensure customers understand the contract before they sign it.
In addition estate agents will check that a buyer is in a position to purchase the property, but not force them to use their own mortgage services, and give those involved weekly up- dates on the transaction.
The code is the latest stage in the group's Move It campaign, which has also seen it open up its own estate agency, Cheatem and Ripoff, to show how easy it is to open one of the businesses, as well as launching its Worst Estate Agent of the Year competition.
The group is also calling for all estate agents to belong to a single ombudsman scheme to ensure consumers' complaints are handled fairly and consistently.
Louise Hanson, head of campaigns for Which?, said: 'Industry chiefs often tell us that it's only a few rotten apples that spoil their reputation, so now estate agents can really convince us that they are not out to con home movers.
'The Which? message to estate agents is we dare you to put up the 'I promise' code in your agency and show that you're putting your customers first.'
