Published: 26/02/2023
If you are looking to put your (location) home on the market this year you’re probably going to need the help of a local estate agent. However, before you go for any old estate agent, here are some tips to help you choose the right estate agent for you and your property.Are they local?
Every market is different. Whether you’re buying in a city, the suburbs, or the country, you’ll want an estate agent who knows local market trends and patterns like the back of their hand. But not only do you want them to be knowledgeable of your local property market, but you also want them to know the community too. After all, they aren’t just selling your home, they are selling the lifestyle of living on the street and in that part of the community.
A good way to gauge local knowledge is simply to ask. Inquire about the basics, like average time on the market for newly listed homes and average sale prices, but also ask about their knowledge of the local schools, shops, parks, markets. And so on.
Do they have reliable experience?
It’s important to ask a potential agent how long they’ve been buying and selling homes, but don’t forget to dig a little bit deeper into their experience. Ask about their average list-price-to-sale-price ratio, as well as the amount of time it typically takes their clients to find and close on their new home. You’ll want to choose an estate agent who has a proven track record of getting buyers into homes fast (and getting them a great deal, too).
Choose the person, not the experience.
I am a firm believer in choosing an agent who works for you and with you. Don't choose an agent based solely on experience. Although it’s good to have, it's not everything. You will be spending a lot of time with that agent and you need to gel. Choose someone relatable and real. Choose for you, not for the house. Choose someone good at talking and negotiating.
Seek referrals from other homeowners.
Despite the technology that seems to take over much of the searching for a home, the right estate agent is still a human-to-human choice. A referral is best. There's no bigger compliment to an agent than a referral from a past client. Ask homeowners who they would recommend. If you know the area you want to purchase in or sell your home in, there will be an expert in that area.
Find an agent you can trust.
As the client, you begin the dialogue — but pay close attention to the agent and how he/she listens and asks YOU questions. Most successful agents have access to the technology it takes to make your property seen or to find options for purchase, but it takes a human being to understand and work to achieve your specific goals. Take time to find a human you respect and trust.
Look for passion, conviction and honesty.
Look at the agent’s work. The easiest and most valuable way is to review how they're marketing other properties. Look at their listing materials, website, brochures and signage. Pay attention to their personal appearance. Look for passion, conviction and honesty. You want your agent to tell you what it's going to take to get your home to sell faster and for the best price.
Look for strong core values.
Whether it's business or pleasure, finding a good person all comes down to core values. Core values are important because you want to work with someone that plays by the same rules you do. For example, if you are an honest person who tells the truth, would you not want someone to tell the truth to you?
Seek clear lines of communication.
First and foremost, you need to feel completely comfortable talking and communicating with the estate agent. If it feels awkward or if there is undue pressure placed on you by the estate agent, this is not the right fit.