What Should You Look for When Choosing a Real Estate Agent?

Choosing an agent to sell your home is an important decision. You're not simply choosing someone to advertise a property. You're choosing the person who will advise you, represent your home to buyers and negotiate on your behalf.

Commission matters, but I don't believe it should be the only factor in that decision.

1. Look at the Strategy, Not Just the Price

It's tempting to choose the agent who suggests the highest selling price.

But a high figure given during an initial meeting doesn't guarantee a high sale price.

Ask the agent to explain how they arrived at their price expectations, what comparable sales support their opinion and how they intend to position your property in the current market.

2. Ask Who Will Actually Handle Your Sale

In some agencies, the person you meet initially may not be the person managing buyers, conducting inspections or negotiating your sale.

Find out who you'll actually be dealing with once the property is listed.

I believe continuity matters. My clients deal directly with me throughout their sale, from the early preparation and planning through to buyer management, negotiation and settlement.

3. Pay Attention to Communication

Good communication isn't simply providing regular updates.

Your agent should be prepared to explain what's happening, discuss buyer feedback, answer questions and give you clear advice when decisions need to be made.

You should feel comfortable having an honest conversation with your agent, particularly when the market isn't responding exactly as expected.

4. Understand How They Manage Buyers

Finding interested buyers is only part of selling a property.

How enquiries are handled, how buyers are followed up, how their level of interest is assessed and how competition is managed can all influence the eventual result.

Ask prospective agents how they manage buyers once inspections begin.

5. Consider Their Approach to Negotiation

Negotiation is one of the most important parts of an agent's role.

It's also difficult to judge simply by looking at advertising or social media.

Ask how the agent approaches offers, competing buyers and negotiations. Their answers should give you some insight into how they think and how they may represent you when it matters.

Choose the Agent Who Fits Your Property and Your Priorities

There isn't one agent who will be the right choice for every homeowner.

Look beyond the presentation and consider the quality of the advice you're receiving, the proposed strategy, communication style, buyer management and negotiation approach.

Most importantly, choose someone you feel confident having represent your property and your interests throughout the sale.

If you're considering selling across Redlands, Brisbane or Logan, you can learn more about my approach and what you can expect when selling your property with me in my Selling With Jodie guide.

Jodie Brooks
Licensed Real Estate Agent
JODIE BROOKS Real Estate
Redlands | Brisbane | Logan