Finding a good real estate agent is the first step to maximising your chances of a smooth sale and a good price for your property. Many people make the mistake of seeking out the highest selling agent from the biggest company, but while a good track record does count, there’s a lot more to picking a good agent.
As a starting point, look for a referral from a friend or colleague who has had a good experience with an agent. Most real estate agents stay in business because satisfied clients refer them to friends, family, neighbours and co-workers. Through talking with previous clients, you’ll have the chance to gain a customers perspective on an agent, which is many times more reliable than an agents own sales pitch. If you don’t have the chance to find a referral, you can still help maximise your chances of tracking down a good agent by doing a little research.
It is well worth visiting an open house in your area. This will give you the chance to see firsthand how the agent deals with prospective buyers. It will also give you an opportunity to probe them about their local knowledge, years in business and their qualifications. Collect business cards and make notes on them. If your thinking about selling your home, pay attention to how the agent is showing the home. It is also good to pay attention to the listing signs in your neighbourhood.
Make a note of when the signs go up, who the listing agent is and when the property is eventually sold. An agent who sells a property quickly is going to be more valuable than an agent with the greatest number of “for sale” signs.
Getting a bad agent can mean less money for you, less return on your investment and an uncomfortable experience, so it is essential you pick the right agent the first time.
KEY TIPS TO FIND THE BEST AGENT FOR YOU
Consider the following:
- Seek referrals from your friends and family.
- Check out the print advertising in the various weekend newspapers and decide which agents specialise in your local area and who has the most effective advertising.
- Search online for agent listings. There are plenty of websites that will refer agents to you but there is no assurance of quality. Google the top real estate companies in your area, go to those websites and look up profiles of individual agents and customer testimonials.
Accreditation is key. Most good agents are associated with the Real Estate Institute of Queensland. Make sure your agent is accredited before making a commitment.
