In some markets, many properties almost ‘sell themselves’; in others, the skills of a good agent come to the fore. How can you spot the good ones?
In some markets, many properties almost ‘sell themselves’; in others, the skills of a good agent come to the fore. How can you spot the good ones?
As we emerge from a sellers’ market into a more balanced one, it’s more important to find an agent with know-how. We describe four qualities that set an agent apart from the pack.
“An agent's ability to price well is key to most successful sales, regardless of property type, location or size.”
1. Hitting the pricing sweet spot
Many agents set a high price because that’s what potential sellers want to hear. However, overpricing can frighten off buyers and kill off interest in the sale. An agent’s ability to price well is key to most successful sales, regardless of property type, location or size.
2. Understanding the seller’s goals
Sellers are often buyers too, and a sale without a corresponding purchase may not achieve their end-to-end goals. A skilled solicitor estate agent can look at two halves of the whole deal, and deliver a perfect overall outcome.
3. Knowing the right people and places
What this means will vary from location to location, but a quality estate agent will be able to provide access to a fully joined-up combination of Property Centres, marketing portals and off- market contacts.
4. Negotiating
A good agent gathers information and then applies it effectively in the sale negotiations. In a market with a relatively even balance of power between buyers and sellers, having an experienced and tenacious negotiator on your team can be a game-changer.
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