6 Qualities To Look For When Choosing a Real Estate Agent
Kathryn Fantov
Vendor Advocate Sydney | Sellers Advocate | 30 years experience | Helping You Choose the Right Agent | Deceased Estates, Divorce & Downsizing Specialist
While there is a multitude of approaches to being a real estate agent, the top performers show similar qualities. Finding someone who is professional in their approach and can talk easily with people from all walks of life is key. You also want someone who comes across as trustworthy – if buyers don’t trust your agent you miss out on obtaining valuable information that could affect the overall outcome.
Try to avoid an agent who will treat you and your home like a number. Each property is unique and a cookie-cutter approach will not net you the best outcome. Here are some other qualities that a great agent should possess.
Communication is key
If your agent takes a day or more to return a call or text, it’s wise to seek someone else. The real estate game moves too quickly to waste time on agents who lack communication skills. You could miss out on a buyer or other opportunity if they fail to keep in touch.
Understanding why you are selling
Different situations need different approaches. If you are selling a home for the first time, a good agent will understand that and treat you differently to someone selling one of their investment properties. An agent should also consider whether you need to buy a new home after selling and offer to help with that process.
Familiar with the local area
An agent who knows your area is a big advantage. They can help sell the neighborhood to potential buyers, rather than just the house. Being aware of all the features, amenities, and things to do in your neighborhood, plus potential buyers on their books is crucial.
Puts you first
If your real estate agent isn’t client-motivated, you should consider moving on to a new one. You should be supported throughout this stressful process and your needs should be their priority. Remember, if you get a good deal, so will they. They should be focusing on you and not just the money they will make.
Proactive, not reactive
Take note if you find you are calling your agent more than they are calling you. Your agent should be contacting prospective buyers to keep the process moving. Make sure they keep you updated on any developments.
Provides references
If a real estate agent is hesitant to give references, run. They should be happy and open to sharing references from as many past clients as possible. If they have delivered great results to past clients, they will want to let you know.
If you’re still nervous about how to ensure you choose the right agent, we can help. We specialise in helping home sellers choose the agent who will deliver the best results without costing them a cent. To find out how our Vendor Advocate service can help you achieve the highest possible price for your home, feel free to?Book in a call with us?or visit us at?www.innovativeproperty.com.au?for more information.?
5 Factors That Influence Auction Success
The auction markets have already started to regain their lustre as Australia recovers from the impacts of the pandemic — but how can sellers take advantage of this revival and increase the chances of getting their property sold under the hammer?
A study by Domain that analysed 20 years’ worth of data identified five factors that influence how likely a property would sell by auction, which include the following:
Recent data show that there is an increased share of auctions happening midweek, a trend that started to become prominent in 2020.
In fact, around a quarter of auctions across Australia in the year so far happened midweek — 21% across combined state capitals and 43% in regional markets.
While Saturday auctions still perform best by a long shot, midweek auctions started turning out good outcomes price gap narrows.
“Interestingly, the price difference between midweek and weekend auctions has significantly decreased — the narrowing price differential is another data point that suggests midweek auctions are perhaps becoming more mainstream,” the report said.
“Not only have midweek auctions grown in popularity, but they have also seen the greatest improvement in clearance rates and are starting to rival prices achieved on a weekend.”
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The month is also a crucial factor that can foretell whether auctions would do well.
Based on data, February is the best time to sell and January is the worst, while all other months are relatively equal.
Increased investment participation is also a huge indicator of the likelihood of auction success.
Evidence also suggests that houses are most likely to sell at an auction, particularly those with two bedrooms and one bathroom.
In terms of location, properties in the ACT and South Australia are the most likely to get sold while Queensland properties are less likely to sell.
The top-performing areas for auctions, however, are composed of markets in Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide:
What happened this week
Last Saturday saw the highest number of properties submitted to auction since 11th December 2021. With the start of the Easter School holidays this week, this last minute rush was to be expected.
Auction numbers will likely slow down over the coming weeks as many people take time out for some much-needed family time.
If you're thinking of selling this year, book in a call with us to find out the best timing for your circumstances.
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I love using the knowledge I've gained during my time as a real estate agent, to help others navigate the buying and selling process. If you'd like some expert advice from a property advocate who genuinely has your best interests at heart, I'd love to hear from you.
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