Your home or investment property is naturally something that holds great value to you. So when it comes to selling that property, you’ll no doubt be searching for the right real estate agent who can maximise your sale price and make the selling process straightforward and enjoyable.
There are many real estate agents in Sydney to choose from – so what should you look for? In our experience, the following criteria are most important.
1. Your real estate agent should be responsive and easy to talk to
When you pick up the phone to speak with your real estate agent, it’s vital that you’ll have a dedicated point of contact who gets back to you in a responsive way. Communication will be important for both you as the owner and for your potential buyer.
The best real estate agents are personable and professional without being aloof – after all, potential home buyers can come from all walks of life and have all sorts of questions before they buy. The best way to assess the communication qualities of a potential real estate agent is to ask for references from recent clients.
2. Your real estate agent should offer local knowledge and experience
It’s crucial that your chosen real estate agent has proven success and experience selling homes in the local area. This means that they’ll have a good awareness of the local demographics and the local housing market.
This is important for two different reasons:
- The first is that your real estate agent will be able to tell you which home improvements could help boost your sales price, such as a fresh coat of paint or repurposing a room.
- The second is so your agent can create listings to feature the highlights that people are really searching for in their new home or property, through professional-level photography and compelling descriptions.
3. Your real estate agent should understand exactly why you’re selling
Property owners sell for many different reasons. Sometimes they’re eager to make the sale because they are buying their next home and need their capital freed up. Sometimes they’re relaxed and want to hold out for a higher price in the best possible market.
Sometimes the property is their family home and the selling process is an incredibly emotional time. A quality real estate agent will work to understand your timeframe, motivations and expectations for selling your property so they can work with you to find the best possible outcome.
Once more, references and reviews can help you to identify an agent who really listens.
4. You deserve honesty and transparency from your real estate agent
Put simply, you deserve straight answers when it comes to selling your property. The last thing a property owner needs is someone that says everything’s fine when one change or consideration could make all the difference to your property sale.
The right team will be able to discuss the local market and your property with full transparency so you can make fully informed decisions. Of course, the same applies if you have an agent managing rental properties in Bondi and Sydney.
More on How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent in Sydney
How do I choose a real estate agent in Australia?
Finding the right real estate agent is crucial for a smooth property transaction in Australia. Here’s a guide to help you:
- Credentials & Experience: Verify the agent’s license and look for someone with experience in your area and property type.
- Local Market Knowledge: Choose an agent who demonstrates a deep understanding of your local market, recent sales data, and pricing trends.
- Communication & Negotiation Skills: Effective communication and strong negotiation skills are essential. Interview agents to assess their communication style and confidence level.
- Marketing Strategy: Discuss the agent’s marketing plan for your property. This should include high-quality photos, virtual tours (if applicable), and targeted advertising strategies.
- Commission & Fees: Compare commission structures and fees amongst different agents.
- Read Reviews & Ask for References: Look for online reviews and ask the agent for client references to get a sense of their past performance.
What not to say to a real estate agent?
Soho has a great article on what not to say to a real estate agent, but here are a couple of things:
- “I’m just browsing, not serious about selling yet.” This might make the agent hesitant to invest their time in you.
- “I can get a higher price selling myself.” Real estate agents bring expertise and market reach to the table. Be open to their guidance.
- “The agent down the street offered a lower commission.” Negotiation is fair, but avoid using another agent’s offer as sole leverage.
How do I sell my house privately in NSW?
While using a real estate agent is common, selling privately in NSW is possible. Here’s what to consider:
- Legal Requirements: Ensure you comply with legal requirements like disclosure documents and inspections. Consult a conveyancer for guidance.
- Marketing & Advertising: Develop a marketing strategy for your property, including online listings, signage, and open houses (if desired).
- Negotiation Skills: Be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers and handle paperwork associated with the sale.
- Time Commitment: Selling privately requires significant time investment in marketing, property viewings, and buyer communication.
- Understanding the Market: Accurately price your property based on market research and comparable sales.
Remember, selling privately can save on agent commissions, but it requires effort and expertise. Weigh the pros and cons before deciding.
