What Do Estate Agents Actually Do? A Simple Guide for Buyers and Sellers

By

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August 16, 2025

Thinking about buying or selling a home? You’ve probably come across estate agents — but what do they actually do, and are they worth the fee?

Here’s a clear, no-nonsense look at what estate agents do, how they help both sides, and what to expect when working with one.

What Is an Estate Agent?

An estate agent helps people sell, buy, or rent homes. Most work in specific towns or areas, so they usually have a good handle on local property prices and demand. They’re hired by sellers, but they also work closely with buyers throughout the process.

Some agents have branches on the high street, while others work online. Many do both.

What Estate Agents Do for Sellers

If you’re selling, a decent estate agent does more than just stick your home on a website. Here’s what they usually take care of:

1. Valuing Your Home

They’ll come round and give an estimate based on similar homes nearby, the condition of your place, and what’s selling locally. A good agent won’t just tell you what you want to hear — they’ll be realistic, which helps avoid delays or price drops later.

2. Marketing the Property

They’ll take photos, write a short description, and list your home on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and their own site. Some still use printed ads or window displays. Others may post it on social media or email it to buyers already on their books.

3. Booking and Holding Viewings

Agents arrange viewings and either show people round themselves or let you do it — up to you. Most sellers prefer the agent to handle it, as they know what buyers tend to ask and how to respond.

4. Handling Offers

Once someone wants to buy, the offer goes through the agent. They’ll pass it on to you and give their thoughts — especially useful if you get more than one offer. The best offer isn’t always the highest; a buyer with no chain, for example, might be less likely to pull out.

5. Keeping the Sale Moving

Once you’ve accepted an offer, there’s still a lot to do — paperwork, solicitors, mortgage checks. The agent keeps everyone updated and chases things up to stop the sale stalling.

What Estate Agents Do for Buyers

Buyers don’t pay estate agents — the seller does. But the agent still helps with plenty during the process.

1. Showing You Homes

Once you’ve said what you’re after, the agent might send you places to look at. You can find listings yourself online, but sometimes agents know about homes before they’re advertised.

2. Sorting Viewings

They’ll book viewings with the seller, and some agents will meet you at the property to show you around.

3. Giving Local Info

Agents often live nearby, so they can answer questions about things like schools, traffic, or parking.

4. Putting Your Offer Forward

If you want to buy, the agent handles your offer and speaks to the seller. They may check if you’ve got a mortgage in place, or if you’re in a chain. After that, they’ll keep in touch as the sale progresses.

Do You Have to Use an Estate Agent?

If you’re selling, no — you don’t have to use an agent. You can list the home yourself. But most people use one to avoid the hassle of booking viewings, talking to buyers, and keeping the sale moving.

If you’re buying, you’ll usually deal with an estate agent, as sellers nearly always use one. You won’t pay anything — the agent’s fee comes from the seller.

Online vs High Street Estate Agents

Online estate agents often charge a flat fee, which can be cheaper than the usual percentage. But you may need to take your own photos or handle viewings yourself.

High street agents charge more, but offer a full service. They deal with buyers, sort viewings, and manage the process from offer to completion — which can be a big help if things get stuck or fall through.

How to Choose a Good Estate Agent

Not all agents are the same. Here’s what to look out for:

Local knowledge: Have they sold similar homes in your area recently?
Reviews: Check Google or Trustpilot to see what other sellers say.
Fees: Is it a flat rate or a percentage? Does the quote include VAT?
Contract length: Some agents tie you in for weeks — ask how long you’re committed.
Where they advertise: Are they using Rightmove or Zoopla? Most buyers search there first.

Don’t just go with the agent who gives you the highest valuation. A fair price, local know-how, and clear communication matter more. Speak to a few, ask questions, and choose someone you trust. If you are looking for Swindon estate agents, visit us at https://www.milesbyron.com/.

How Port Congestions Are Shaping Global Trade Routes

By

Uneeb Khan

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August 15, 2025

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Port congestion has increasingly become a pivotal issue in shaping global trade routes. Over the past decade, growing consumer demand, evolving trade patterns, and the ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have compounded delays at some of the world’s busiest ports, reshaping the logistics and supply chain landscape. This article explores the theoretical and practical aspects of port congestion, analyzes its impact on global trade, and presents data-driven insights into measures being taken to mitigate its effects.

Understanding Port Congestion

What Is Port Congestion?

Port congestion occurs when cargo ships queue for extended periods outside ports due to insufficient capacity or inefficiencies. These delays result in higher costs for shipping companies, wasted time, and disruptions along the supply chain.

From theoretical perspectives in supply chain management, port congestion is a classic example of bottleneck phenomena, where even a minor disruption in a single node (the port) can cascade across the global network. Practical implications, however, include increased shipping costs, longer lead times, and even rerouting to avoid problem ports.

Major Causes of Port Congestion

Understanding the causes of port congestion helps illustrate why it is such a pressing issue in global trade. Key factors include:

Rising Global Imports and Exports: Ports worldwide are facing record volumes, surpassing their operational capacities. For instance, the Port of Los Angeles saw a 4.6% increase in container volume from 2021 to 2022 (source: Statista).
Lack of Infrastructure Modernization: Ports with outdated infrastructure cannot handle the growing size of mega-ships and container volumes efficiently.
Labor Shortages: Whether caused by labor strikes, low wages, or pandemics, workforce shortages significantly slow down operations.
Disruptions in Supply Chains: Events like COVID-19, geopolitical tensions, or natural disasters create ripple effects that exacerbate backlogs.
Inefficient Use of Technology: The lack of digitization and automation in certain ports restricts operational efficiency.

The Impact of Port Congestions on Global Trade

Disruptions in Supply Chains

One of the most measurable impacts of port congestion on global trade lies in its disruption of supply chains. When container ships are delayed by even a few days, businesses down the line suffer from delays in their own operations.

For example, the shutdown of China’s Ningbo-Zhoushan Port in 2021, due to a COVID outbreak, resulted in weeks-long delays, forcing companies such as Toyota and Tesla to halt production (source: Bloomberg). These disruptions underscore the interconnectedness of global trade and the far-reaching effects of bottlenecks.

Increased Shipping Costs

Freight rates have been skyrocketing due to port congestion. The Freightos Baltic Index reported that the cost of shipping a container from East Asia to the U.S. West Coast surged from $1,364 in 2019 to over $20,000 in late 2021. These higher costs often trickle down to consumers in the form of inflated product prices.

Rerouting and Alternative Trade Routes

To mitigate the challenges of port congestion, many companies are looking beyond traditional trade routes. Below are some notable strategies being adopted globally to manage the crisis.

1. Regional Ports as Alternatives

Major shipping firms are diversifying their routes by routing through smaller, regional ports instead of large ones like Shanghai or Los Angeles. For instance, the Port of Charleston has emerged as a hub in the U.S. Southeast, leveraging its advanced digital logistics systems.

2. Expansion of Infrastructure

Governments worldwide are investing in port infrastructure to meet demand. The Indian government has allocated $82 billion for upgrading 74 ports by 2035 under its Sagarmala Project, aiming to increase port capacity and reduce delays.

3. Trade Route Diversification

New trade corridors such as the Arctic shipping lanes are drawing attention due to shorter transit times compared to traditional routes like the Suez Canal. Similarly, rail freight routes through Central Asia have provided alternatives for landlocked nations.

4. The Role of IT in Supply Chain Management

Technology plays a crucial role in optimizing operations amidst port congestion. Digitization and AI-based solutions are helping streamline container tracking, port scheduling, and predictive analytics. Learn more about the role of IT in supply chain management.

How Port Congestion Stimulates Innovation

While challenging, port congestion has spurred significant innovation in logistics and supply chain management. Emerging models such as “Just-in-Case” inventory strategies have replaced “Just-in-Time” systems to address the unpredictability caused by delays.

Leading logistics programs, such as the Master Diploma in Supply Chain Management (MDSCM) — widely recognized as the best diploma in logistics and supply chain management — are equipping future professionals to tackle real-time challenges like port congestion. The curriculum focuses on international trade, advanced technology, and efficient management techniques, aligning closely with global industry demands

The Role of Institutions in Addressing Global Logistics Challenges

Renowned institutions like AIMS Education with worldwide recognition have paved the way for career-focused learning by offering accredited logistics and supply chain programs. With flexibility, practical learning strategies, and global recognition, these programs equip students with the tools needed to confront challenges such as port congestion and thrive in the dynamic global trade ecosystem.

Global Perspective and Strategic Recommendations

1. Investment in Digital Solutions

Automation, such as crane systems, autonomous vehicles, and AI-based container allocation systems, can dramatically reduce inefficiencies at ports.

2. Public-Private Partnerships

Collaboration between governments and private stakeholders, as seen in the EU’s “Horizon Europe” program, accelerates development and innovation.

3. Focus on Sustainability

Ports need to integrate sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions from idle ships and investing in eco-friendly logistics methods.

Final Analysis

Port congestion has become more than just a temporary inconvenience; it is a structural challenge shaping global trade routes. Its influence extends from inflated shipping costs to redefined trade corridors, representing both threats and untapped opportunities. Educational programs, like those offered by AIMS Education, are vital in equipping professionals to innovate and solve critical logistical challenges.

By tackling both the immediate causes and implementing forward-looking strategies, the global trade ecosystem can transform this bottleneck into a gateway for innovation and sustainable growth. Through technological adoption, proactive policymaking, and informed professionals, the path forward can be navigated efficiently, ensuring that global trade remains a driving force in economic development.

Making a Statement on the Day

By

Anna Styles

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August 15, 2025

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Arriving in the right car sets the tone for the whole wedding day. Whether it’s a vintage Rolls-Royce, a classic Bentley, or a modern luxury saloon, the vehicle you choose plays a key part in the look and feel of the celebration. Wedding car hire isn’t just about transport — it’s about presentation, comfort, and creating a moment to remember. For most couples, the trip to the ceremony is one of the most introspective and emotional moments of the day, and driving in a well-preserved automobile makes the experience more celebratory.

A professionally driven car means you don’t have to worry about the directions, time or parking. It gives you time to breathe, relax, enjoy the ride and arrive in style, relaxed and set to go. From ribbon trimmings to gleaming interiors, these touches contribute to a stylish and seamless experience from door to door.

A Variety of Styles for Various Weddings

Each couple has their own preference, and the vehicle chosen must be compatible with the theme of the wedding. Some like the classic beauty of a 1930s Beauford or a traditional Daimler, while others might select a newer Mercedes or Jaguar for a more modern entry. Classic and vintage vehicles are often used for traditional or rural weddings, while executive cars are better for more modern designs or urban locations.

Colour is involved as well. White and silver are traditional, but black, navy, or champagne colours will complement alternative wedding colour schemes. There are some companies that provide matching brides’ cars and grooms’ cars or extra cars for the bridal party and close relatives. Not only does this maintain the appearance but also organizes transport arrangements on the day.

It’s also worth considering the nature of the journey. If the location is a way away from the pick-up point, comfort and reliability are even more crucial. Wedding cars are normally selected for their comfortable ride, roomy interior and photogenic appearance, so they look nice on camera and feel good to travel in.

Service That Matches the Occasion

Wedding car hire is not merely a matter of picking a car — it’s also about the service attached. A professional chauffeur understands how to navigate the day with poise and attention to detail. They will be early, assist with entering and exiting the vehicle, and be ready for spontaneous changes like inclement weather or scheduling alterations. This kind of focus is what matters, particularly when nerves are running high and everything must go according to schedule.

Most wedding car hire services come with extras like ribbons, bottles of water, and the provision of optional music during travel. Some also provide additional time to stop for photographs, either on arrival or along the way at selected scenic spots. This provides a few peaceful moments in a day that tends to rush by, and allows the couple to absorb it all.

The top suppliers communicate with couples and wedding planners well in advance, double-checking routes, timings and preferences to ensure there are no surprises on the day. Good communication, a clear contract and a sound vehicle all contribute to peace of mind.

A Lasting Impression

The vehicle that transports the bride or groom to the wedding and departs with the couple afterwards is also incorporated into the day’s narrative. It is included in the photographs, remembered by attendees, and sometimes one of the last details that pulls everything together. Choosing the right car is about more than transport — it’s about creating an experience that matches the care and planning that’s gone into every other part of the wedding.
Whether you’re after classic charm or modern style, a professional wedding car hire service helps make sure that every moment on the road is part of the celebration, not just a way to get from one place to another. Contact us for more information on Wedding Cars Belfast.