How to Select the Right Estate Agent
So, you’re gearing up to take the plunge: your property is ready to hit the market, you’ve researched agents, narrowed your options down to a few companies, and you’re emotionally prepared for the next chapter of your life. But you still haven’t decided which agent you’re going to use to sell your property.
We get it: it’s not an easy decision. Your home is probably one of your biggest assets (if not the biggest asset), and your agent is the one you’re relying on to get you the best bang for your buck.
But, putting the bottom dollar aside, your agent also needs to be someone you feel comfortable with; someone you can trust. How do you know who is the ‘right’ agent for you?
To help you navigate this important part of your real estate journey, we’ve spent some time putting together these tips that may help guide you in your decision.
Tips for Choosing the Right Agent
- Experience Counts
There’s no substitute for experience: when it comes to a highly competitive field such as real estate, you want someone who knows what they’re about. A seasoned agent should have a firm understanding of the local market, property cycles, the current buying/selling climate and predictions for the future.
And he/she needs to understand people. Being able to relate to the circumstances of both buyers and sellers is super important.
That’s not to say younger or less experienced agents should be avoided – there’s an undeniable energy, drive and enthusiasm that goes along with agents who have recently joined the real estate world, so it’s important to get a healthy balance of passion and know-how.
Don’t be afraid to ask prospective agents about their experience. Talk to them about properties they have sold which are similar to yours, or in a similar bracket, and satisfy yourself that they have the local knowledge and the contacts to sell your property.
- Results don’t Lie
Don’t skimp on your research. Spend time looking at company reviews, testimonials and past sales for each agent. Talk to friends and family who have recently sold properties and find out about their experiences with their agents.
Visit open homes being conducted by various agents – being on the ‘other side of the fence’ is a great way to see how each agent sells a property and treats their potential clients. See who goes ‘the extra mile’ for their clients, and who doesn’t.
- Go with your Gut
Your relationship with your agent is not only about excellent sales techniques. It’s also about trust, communication and confidence.
There are times when we just have a ‘gut feel’ about someone, and if there’s something about a particular agent that makes you uneasy, there’s a chance that buyers might feel exactly the same way.
Being able to communicate easily, openly and honestly with your agent at all times is essential for a smooth, enjoyable selling experience, so make sure you feel comfortable around your agent. After all, he/she is going to be coming in and out of your home regularly over the coming weeks!
- Don’t make Price the Overriding Factor
The agent who gives the highest valuation may not necessarily be the best option.
Yes, you want to get the best possible return on investment, but be wary of agents who give unrealistically high evaluations – it’s possible that they are saying what they know you want to hear, just to get your listing!
As a seller, you need to know the truth: if your property is worth $700,000 and you are told by the agent that it’s worth $800,000, you’re likely to be bitterly disappointed when lower offers come in and you have to reduce your selling price.
- Make Sure you’re Happy with the Sales Process
Different agents use different sales processes, so make sure you’re comfortable with the process your agent is proposing. Here are some of the common marketing strategies for homes:
- Private sale/fixed price
- Expressions of interest
- Sale by auction
Each method has its merits, so it’s important to make sure you understand the sales method proposed by an agent, and why he/she is suggesting that for your property. Make sure the agent takes the time to clearly explain what each method entails and you feel comfortable before you sign on the dotted line.
Still needing some guidance? The team at Love & Co is friendly, approachable and always available for a chat! Call your local Love & Co team to discuss your property and your needs.