Finding the right real estate agent to help you sell your property is hard! The number of potential agents is huge and competition in Sydney is fierce, so how can you maximise success in the sale, whilst minimising stress? Here are our top five tips to help you find the real estate agent for your needs:
1. Research and Shortlist 3-5 Agents
- Begin by researching real estate agents in your local area who have a strong presence and a successful track record of successful local sales. Online property portals, such as realestate.com.au and Domain.com.au and social media, can provide valuable insights into an agent's activity and reputation.
- Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. We’d take a personal referral any day to discover a quality agent.
- Create a shortlist of your top 3-5 potential agents based on your research and recommendations. As you’ll find 1 - 2 that are too cool, so look to cull them and move along.
2. Interview Multiple Agents
- Don't settle for the first agent you come across. Arrange interviews or meetings with three agents from your shortlist.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask each agent during these interviews, we suggest inquiring about their experience in your local market, the number of potential buyers on their in contact with, their marketing strategies, and their track record of selling properties similar to yours.
- Pay attention to their communication skills, professionalism, and responsiveness during the interviews. You should feel comfortable and confident working with your chosen agent. Getting a good vibe is key!
3. Check Online Reviews
- Google or Bing your shortlisted agents for online reviews and testimonials. Sites like ratemyagent.com and the property portals should pop up. This is a super easy way to validate your decision by collecting valuable feedback from past clients.
4. Assess Marketing Strategies
- A crucial aspect of selling your home is the marketing strategy employed by the agent. Inquire about how the agent plans to market your property, including online listings, professional photography, virtual tours, open houses, and targeted advertising.
- Evaluate the agent's ability to present your property in the best possible light. High-quality marketing materials and an attractive online presence can significantly impact the sale.
5. Compare Price Structures
- Understand the price structure offered by each agent. Most agents work on a commission basis, typically a percentage of the final sale price.
- Whilst commission is an important factor, weight accordingly to the other info on the agent you sourced as part of the evaluation process. Cheap doesn't always equal cheerful and a successful sale for you!
Finding the best real estate agent to sell your home in Sydney will take time, but you’ll feel better throughout the sale process because of this early effort and this decision can significantly impact the success of your property sale
Good luck!