How To Select A Good Real Estate Agent

“Agents might look the same if you squint but when you put them under the microscope the differences are significant.” John McGrath

When selecting an agent, we believe the difference between employing a good agent versus a great agent is about 5%-10% on the sale price.

 

How do you identify a great agent for you and your property?

 

With over 30 years of experience selling properties, many for record prices, and with a reputation of consistently outperforming our competitors on overall vendor experience, we have identified a number of consistent traits all high performing agents possess.

 

Here is a list of questions to ask an agent to help you identify the best agent to sell your property.

 

How much is my property worth?

This is the number one question on a vendors mind. Doing your own research is valuable so you have a clear idea of what similar properties are selling for in your area.  Be conscious of agents that give you an inflated price just to secure your business.

 

 

How would you market my home?

Get your potential agent to explain how they would market your property. A good marketing plan should include a mix of digital, print and database marketing.  A comprehensive plan underpins the success of the sales campaign so it is important this is comprehensive.

 

 

What sales method would you use to sell my home?

The two most common ways to sell a property is via auction or private treaty/private sale. The third, less popular method is tender / expression of interest.  Finding out which method the sales agent would recommend and their reasons for choosing it, is a good idea.

For more information on the different ways to sell a property download our Selling a Property Guide.

 

 

Do you host all open for inspections?

The answer to this should be yes. This is where the agent meets potential buyers and has an opportunity to create a rapport and generate excitement around the property.

An agent can also garner information from people inspecting the property on what they feel are the pros and cons. Armed with these details it is possible that you can make a few quick improvements, where possible.

 

Can you share some recent references?

Ask for references from their past clients, it’s just like selecting the best candidate for any job. You may even be able to contact their previous clients to discuss their experience.

 

What properties have you recently sold in the area?

Armed with this information you can look into previous sales, the price they achieved and how long it was on the market.  This can help you understand the type of property they sell and their success rate.

 

What makes you different from your competition?

Giving the agent the opportunity to explain how their experience in the business sets them apart from the rest is important.

You also need a good negotiator with an affable personality. Ask for an example where they have successfully handled a tricky negotiation and what the outcome was.

You need to trust your instincts. If you feel you can communicate well, are relaxed, share values and feel like you can put your trust in an agent then you’re off to a good start.

 

A final word

A good way to assess an agent in their work environment is to attend an open for inspection for a property they are selling and see how they operate.