If you want to buy or sell a house or plot, it’s important to do it through an experienced professional. This is where a real estate agent can be useful. They know the ups and downs of the housing market and which tactics can fetch you better prices.
Did you know that approximately 89% of homeowners seek the guidance of a real estate agent when they buy or sell a house? But since there are so many agents in the market now, how will you know whom to choose?
Don’t worry, this article here will help you to figure out how to choose the perfect agent for you by asking some basic questions.
Best Tips To Choose The Right Real Estate Agent
1. What experience have you received?
This should be your first question to the agent when you speak to them. Remember, it doesn’t necessarily mean how long they have been in the housing business but indicates how much they know about the market and its ways.
You can even ask questions like, “Could you tell me the prices of some of the comparable properties?” in order to understand their knowledge and expertise. A good broker will never agree to market a house that seems overpriced.
If this happens, they will tell you right away that you need to lower your prices. You’ll be able to understand if they know the market rates or not.
2. What is your marketing plan?
To publish your property and give you a good deal, you need to make sure the agent tries their best. Therefore, it’s important to ask for a detailed description of their marketing plans and strategies. Don’t feel shy or embarrassed; after all, it’s your property and you have the right to ask.
Does the broker come up with many creative ideas to spread the news to the public, such as through blogs or special events? If yes, then what will they do to make sure your property stands out among all others and the audience wishes to communicate with you?
Ask them if a professional photographer will be included in the campaigns or not. A professional photographer can capture amazing shots of your house and help it sell faster.
3. How will you communicate with me?
Tell the broker clearly how you want to be intimated- through phone calls, texts, emails, or any other modes of communication. Texting is generally not considered to be appropriate so don’t be surprised if your agent says no to that. Ask them if they wish to be committed to any planned schedule of detailed marketing and activity reports.
If they provide you with the latest updates and information every one or two weeks, it’s considered fine. Make sure you also have the agent’s number and contact details so that even you can reach out to them if you have a query or emergency.
4. What is your commission?
The standard rate of commission for real estate agents is 6% but this might not be universal. The commission money is usually split between the listing or sales agent and the buyer’s agent.
Some part of it first goes to the listing brokerage, which means that this agent receives nearly 90% of that commission. Since the amount of commission is not really fixed, you should ask the agent their rates. If you see a possibility, you can always try and negotiate a little.
For any doubts, ask them if they can show you the budget. While you’re discussing the expenses, clearly state which ones will be a part of the broker’s commission and which ones will be paid by you.
5. Are you well-connected?
Another important point is to check the credibility of the agent and their connections. It doesn’t mean checking their number of friends on Facebook but refers to how well-connected they are in their firm.
For example, HDRE Real Estate and Strata has over 100 years of experience in the housing realm and has one of the strongest connections all over Australia. It serves its customers with utmost loyalty and transparency, so you must definitely approach HDRE if you wish to know more about housing estates.
Over to you…
Buying or selling a house can be a time-consuming but exciting prospect. And when you have the right real estate agent to help you out, you’ll know that you will get a good deal. Make sure to ask these five questions before selecting the most professional and reputed agent.
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