Why I Used a Buying Agent – Even as a Property Professional

By Francesca Watson, Co-Founder of Otters Home Search

When people hear that I used a buying agent for my own home search, they’re often surprised. After all, I’ve worked in property for over two decades and co-founded a buying agency myself. But having recently returned to Bath after 25 years away, I found myself in the same position as many of our clients: moving to a new (yet familiar) area, juggling life and work, and trying to find the perfect home in a competitive market. And I quickly realised something important—expertise alone doesn’t make you immune to the emotional weight of moving. I needed someone objective, experienced, and wholly on my side.

Even the Experts Need Experts

When you’ve been in property as long as I have, you know all the tricks of the trade. But that can actually make buying a home even trickier—because you see too much. You know what can go wrong, you worry about what you might miss, and you carry a mental spreadsheet of red flags, repair costs, and resale risks.

So when I decided to relocate back to Bath, I knew I needed someone with a clear head and a buyer-first mindset to guide me through the process. I turned to someone I trust implicitly and said, “Right—this time, you take the reins.”

And what a relief it was.

The Power of Perspective

A good buying agent offers more than property search skills. They bring perspective—particularly useful when you’re the one emotionally invested. They remind you what your priorities really are when you’re tempted by a pretty kitchen but need a practical commute. They spot the things you’re too busy—or too emotionally involved—to see.

That’s exactly what I needed: someone to ask the hard questions, scrutinise the survey reports, and keep negotiations focused and professional. And to be honest, it was a bit of a revelation to be on the other side of the service we offer at Otters.

Back in Bath, but Not the Same City

Although Bath was once my home, 25 years is a long time. The property market has changed, as have the neighbourhoods and the pace of life. The nostalgia was lovely, but it wasn’t going to help me choose the right street, the right school catchment, or the right long-term investment. Having a buying agent gave me that critical local insight and helped me filter through the noise to focus on what mattered most.

We always say at Otters Home Search that “local knowledge is invaluable”—and in this case, I experienced it first-hand. A great agent will tell you why that charming-looking lane floods in winter, or why this end of the street carries a price premium.

The Difference is in the Details

Having someone coordinate viewings, deal with estate agents, and manage surveyors and solicitors took a huge weight off my shoulders. They pre-qualified options, scheduled around my calendar, and negotiated hard on my behalf. It wasn’t just about saving time—it was about reducing stress, increasing confidence, and, ultimately, buying a home I love and feel good about.

A First-Hand Reminder of Our Mission

Using a buying agent was a powerful reminder of why Abbie and I founded Otters Home Search in the first place. Buying a home is one of life’s biggest decisions. Whether you're an experienced buyer or doing it for the first time, you deserve someone in your corner who sees the whole picture, protects your interests, and makes the process feel not just manageable—but enjoyable.

I’m proud of the service we deliver for our clients every day. And now, I’m also proud to say I’ve lived it, and benefitted from it myself.

If you’re relocating, upsizing, downsizing, or just want an expert advocate to guide your next property move in the Cotswolds, Bath, or surrounding areas—come and have a chat with us at Otters Home Search. We’d love to help you feel at home, wherever you’re headed.

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