Selecting an Agent

The selection of an agent to sell your property is one of the more important decisions you will ever make.

The ‘ability to talk’ does not make a successful real estate agent. It’s the ‘ability to listen’ that makes a great agent. When selling, choose an agent who asks you questions so that you know they understand your particular needs and circumstances. Make sure they have listened to your answers and base their recommendations on what you have said. Also look closely at the strength and reputation of the network behind the agent. The office's policies, its local profile and its ability to gain referral leads are all important considerations.

It is also important to ensure that the agent will be a good negotiator. One good test of their negotiation skills is how they handle their agency appointment negotiations with you. If they cave in to your requests for a commission fee drop too easily they are not likely to hold your price up when negotiating with prospective purchasers.

A commitment to service is also a trademark of long term successful salespeople. You can recognise this quality not only from testimonials but also from the agent’s willingness to guarantee their service. Every responsible real estate agent has a week-by-week program of service for controlled listings. You may decide that you would rather not have as much contact, but that is your choice, not that of the agent.

In summary, look for an agent who is: