Choosing the right agent is an important aspect of selling your property. In order to sort the good from the bad (as there is good and bad in every industry), it is important to do some prior research before appointing an agent to sell your property.
Once you have shortlisted some potential agents, it is essential to meet with them individually to discuss the potential sale of your property.
Questions to ask when interviewing an agent:
1. Are you a licensed real estate agent?
It is important to make sure that any potential agency that you will appoint is licensed by the relevant state authority to practice real estate
2. How long have you worked in this industry?
Determine what level of experience they have in real estate.
3. What is your success rate?
How successful have they been in past sales? Did they consistently meet the asking price or were their properties withdrawn/sold for less than expected?
4. Can I contact some of your recent clients?
This is to help you obtain feedback from past clients and determine what level of service the clients felt they were provided.
5. How many listings do you have at the moment?
Is this agent representing many other people, thus being reputable and successful? Will the number of people the agent represents hinder their ability to provide you with exceptional service if they are busy with other clients?
6. How do you plan to promote my property?
What marketing strategy will the agent adopt to promote your property? What can they provide for me that their competition cannot? How often will they advertise?
7. What process do you use to find potential buyers?
Do they have a database of current buyers looking for a property similar to yours? If not, what methods will they use to find new potential buyers?
8. How many sales professionals does the office have?
Will this agent have adequate support and backup in order to manage this sale? If they are unavailable, will they have someone who is also qualified that will be able to step in?
9. How often will you provide me with feedback?
When will they contact you to provide progress updates?
10. How can I contact you?
Is the agent easily accessible to you via mobile as well as email?
11. What are the terms and conditions that I will be bound to?
Prepare yourself and know exactly what is expected of you and the agent. Ensure you understand the terms and conditions of the agreements before you sign, and in particular what conditions are in place if you want to end the agreement with your agent.
12. What are your fees?
How much do they charge for their services? Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs to ensure there are no hidden fees. Compare their fees with their competitors.
13. If the house does not sell, will I incur any charges?
It is important to establish if fees are payable upon the successful sale of your property or if you will incur fees regardless of the outcome.
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