Let’s face it: the world of property sourcing can be a bit of a minefield. For every company out there doing a stellar job, there’s another that’s… well, let’s just say they’re not winning any awards for customer service.
So how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? Clearly, we’re biased because we run a property sourcing company – but you can use these principles to evaluate both us and others, to make sure you’re not left with buyer’s remorse…
Look for the ones putting themselves out there
Keep an eye out for sourcing companies that are front and centre in the property world. Are they:
Speaking at events?
Writing for industry publications?
Hosting webinars or workshops?
Anyone can bait you in with a great-looking deal then sell you hard on the phone, but when they’re sharing their viewpoint and methods in public you can assess how well they align with your perspective and goals.
Check their credentials
A website full of logos is far from the most important criterion, but there are certain boxes you’ll want to see ticked as absolute basics:
A long track record with up-to-date financial filings (look up their company number on Companies House)
Membership of a redress scheme (it’s mandatory)
Registration with The Information Commissioner’s Office (ditto)
Ask the tough questions
When you do reach out to a sourcing company, don’t be afraid to grill them a bit. Ask about:
Their process for finding and vetting properties
How they structure their fees
What protections are in place if things go wrong
A good company will be happy to answer these questions clearly and directly.
Trust your gut (it’s smarter than you think)
At the end of the day, after you’ve done all your homework, don’t ignore that little voice in your head. If something feels off, it probably is. A good sourcing company should make you feel confident and informed, not confused and pressured.
Why we do things differently at Property Hub Invest
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “This all sounds great, but how do I know YOU lot aren’t just another flash in the pan?” Fair question. Here’s the thing: we’ve been building our reputation in public for over a decade. And when I say public, I mean really public.
We’ve got:
A podcast that’s been running every week for over a decade
A YouTube channel where we break down complex property topics
Books that have sold tens of thousands of copies, some published by Penguin
A column in the Sunday Times (yes, our mums are very proud)
The point is, we’re here week in and week out, sharing our knowledge and expertise. And we’re doing it for free.
Why? Because we believe that the more you know about property investment, the better decisions you’ll make. And if those decisions lead you to work with us, great. If not, that’s fine too.
So before you even think about picking up the phone to us, why not check out some of our content? Listen to a podcast episode, watch a YouTube video, maybe even read one of our books. Get a feel for who we are, how we think, and what we’re all about.
That way, when you do decide to reach out, you’ll do it with confidence, knowing exactly who you’re dealing with.
Remember, finding the right sourcing company is a bit like finding the right property – it takes time, effort, and a healthy dose of skepticism. But get it right, and it could be the start of a beautiful (and profitable) relationship.
