From America to Australia selling a home is a bit like going on a first date. You want to put your best foot forward, you’re a little nervous about the outcome, and you really, really hope the person across from you knows what they’re doing. Don’t start panicking as there are a few things you should definitely know to ensure you aren’t just hiring a salesperson, but a genuine partner who has your back.
Price can be altered
Never rush and be careful. Some agents will inflate the estimated sale price just to get you to sign on the dotted line. Once you’re locked in, they’ll slowly manage your expectations downward until the house sells at the actual market price. Instead of chasing the biggest number, ask for a look at recent sales of similar houses nearby. If they can’t back up their number with real-world examples, it might just be a dream they’re selling you.
Local knowledge as the secret sauce
No one would ask a baker to fix their car, right? The same goes for real estate. You need someone who knows the specific vibe of your street. The most charming suburb, the right coffee shop, the best restaurant in the neighbourhood, etc. For instance, if you are looking for professional Perth real estate agents to help you navigate a move from Western Australia over to a quiet coastal spot like Pearl in NSW, you’ll notice the markets move at completely different speeds. A Perth expert understands the fast-paced cycles of the West, but for a home in Pearl, you need someone who understands the New South Wales Central Coast buyer, someone looking for that weekend escape or a permanent sea change, and similar, So, make sure your agent is an expert in the specific area you’re selling.
Go with marketing works
Gone are the days when you could just stick a single grainy photo in the local paper and wait for the phone to ring. Now when the digital game is everything you need to be certain about how an agent plans to actually find your buyer. During the interview, you should dig into whether they are investing in professional drone shots to capture the property from every angle or if they have a clear, proven strategy for social media platforms. It is also worth finding out what their buyer database actually looks like and how they intend to use it. You should never be afraid to ask to see their previous listings to check the quality for yourself. If the photos look like they were taken on an old phone in a dark room, it is a sign to walk away.
Opt for straightforward communication
There is nothing more stressful than having an open house on a Saturday and not hearing from your agent until Tuesday afternoon. You want someone who is talkative with everyone. During your first meeting, pay attention to how they communicate. Do they listen more than they talk? Do they answer your texts promptly? All in all, you need a partner who keeps you in the loop every step of the way.
Check the fine print on fees
Commission is usually the first thing people negotiate, but it shouldn’t be the only thing. Every agency has a different structure, and it’s important to know what you’re paying for. Check for hidden costs. Is marketing included in that percentage, or is that an extra cost out of your pocket? What happens if the house doesn’t sell within three months? Being upfront about the budget now prevents a very awkward conversation at the settlement table later.
Trust your gut
Never underestimate your intuition. You are going to be in constant contact with this person for weeks, maybe months. If you feel like they are talking down to you or making you feel rushed, that’s a red flag. You want someone who feels like a teammate, someone you could actually grab a coffee with. If the energy is off during the pitch, it won’t get better during a tough negotiation.
Making the final call
Lastly, hiring an agent is about peace of mind. If you do your homework, look past the shiny suits, and ask these deeper questions, you’ll find someone who treats your home with the respect it deserves. It’s a big move, literally and figuratively, but with the right person by your side, it can actually be a pretty exciting journey.