Choosing a Real Estate Agent
Partnering with the best agent to sell your property
When it comes to selling property in Aotearoa, selecting a suitable real estate agent is a pivotal decision that can determine the success of your transaction. An excellent agent does more than just list your property; they become your advocate, your advisor and your negotiator. To ensure you partner with the right professional, there are critical factors to consider regarding their performance, offerings and commission rates.
Firstly, assess an agent's past performance, as it can be a strong indicator of their ability to sell your property effectively. Look for agents with a robust history of successful sales in your area. Local expertise means they understand the market conditions and can price your property competitively. Consider their sales-to-listing ratio – a high ratio typically signifies that the agent not only lists properties but also closes deals efficiently. Moreover, examine how long their listings usually stay on the market compared to the average in your region. A quicker turnaround can be a testament to their skill at driving interest and closing sales. The services offered by an estate agent are equally important. Today's real estate landscape demands more than just putting up a 'For Sale' sign. An adept agent should provide a comprehensive marketing plan that includes professional photography, online listings across prominent platforms, social media promotion and possibly staging services to showcase your home's potential. In addition to marketing prowess, the best agents offer valuable advice on preparing your property for sale and may suggest improvements or touch-ups that could enhance its appeal and value. They should have a network of potential buyers and collaborate with other professionals like solicitors or building inspectors who can facilitate various aspects of the sale process. Discussing commission rates is crucial when choosing an agent. In New Zealand commissions are negotiable and vary widely depending on factors such as location, property type and services provided. Lower commission rates might be appealing but be aware of what might be sacrificed in terms of service quality. An effective strategy is to balance cost with value – weigh the commission rate against the agent's track record, marketing efforts and additional services offered. Remember that investing in an excellent agent could result in a higher selling price which can offset the cost of their commission. To aid in making an informed decision about which real estate agent to hire for selling your property in New Zealand, consider asking these questions: By asking these questions upfront, you'll gain insights into each agent’s approach and capabilities.
Remember that choosing an agent is about finding someone who aligns with your expectations and whom you trust to represent your interests throughout the sale process. Take time to research candidates thoroughly because, ultimately, this decision can make all the difference in achieving a satisfying outcome for one of life’s most significant transactions. Each Agent has a different approach, if you need someone with more attentiveness and patience, you may choose a smaller team or an Agent with only a few listings, versus a big team with multiple sales associates who are managing 30+ listings at once.
