Finding the right agent is arguably one of the biggest decisions you’ll make during the sale of your home. You want the best result and experience possible, so we’ve listed our top tips to help you find the best fit for you and your property.
Spring is the season for selling. A time for growth and transition, this time of year sees vendors emerging from winter’s fog motivated and ready to sell. Sparkling pools, lush gardens and sunlit interiors make for a seductive mix, so it makes sense to showcase your home with Mother Nature firmly in your corner.
If you’re hoping to be settled in your new home by Christmas (tis’ the season for miracles) it’s important to make the big decisions promptly. Approach your search for the right agent with the following in mind:
1. Honesty and Integrity
The family home is perhaps the most important asset you’ll ever own. So, when it comes time to sell, you need to be able to have open and honest conversations with your agent. Does your agent have a clear understanding of your goals and expectations? Have they been upfront and transparent with their commission rate as well as any other potential costings? Don’t be afraid to have these conversations from the get-go.
2. Personality
Go with your gut. Does the agent’s personality gel well with yours? Think, chemistry. Once you’ve shortlisted your top picks, sit down and really get an understanding of how each agent operates and what they’re like to deal with. Selling a home is stressful for most, so ask yourself if the agent is going to make the process as smooth and streamlined as possible.
3. Local Knowledge
To understand what you’re competing against, you’re going to need an agent with area-specific knowledge. Local agents know what sales methods are best received by your area’s demographic, which is important when it comes time to decide on a marketing strategy. They’ll also be able to offer you a database of potential buyers in the area, as well as any additional insights into your neighbourhood.
4. Networks
Before your property is even marketed, a good local agent will have an up-to-date database of potential buyers they can contact about your property. These buyers may have missed out on a previous purchase, so if your home fits their criteria, you know you’re dealing with serious buyers.
5. Sale Process
A lot goes into selling a home and there’s plenty to consider. Discuss and establish a clear plan that includes pricing and a solid marketing and advertising strategy. Will you offer open homes and if so, how many? Do they recommend selling at auction or private treaty? What sort of contract length are you looking for? Agents have systems in place for selling, but there’s no ‘one size fits all’ for selling a house. Ensure your plan is thoughtfully tailored to you and your home.
6. Research and Results
A good agent will let their results speak for themselves. What are their sales like in the area for comparative properties? Look at the prices they’ve achieved and how long the properties sat on the market. Different agents specialise in different listings (do they sell mostly luxury properties? Beachfronts? Acreage?) so be sure your property is in their wheelhouse.
Equally important is an agent’s reputation and how they’re reviewed. You want an agent that responds to enquiries promptly and is diligent about follow ups, so feedback from past clients is useful. Have a look at reviews online and note how the agent responds — whether the feedback is positive, neutral, or negative, the agent’s response should always be professional.
7. Attention to detail
When marketing your property, a good agent should be able to highlight your property’s strengths but also respectfully identify what aspects could be improved for sale. Remember, you’re trying to appeal to as many buyers as possible, so be open to your agent’s feedback regarding any potential changes or improvements.
Once you’ve found your agent remember, Property Credit is here to help with your property finance needs. We finance advertising costs as well as any pre-sale improvements you might need.
