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Property Guide
Choosing an agent isn't simply about who suggests the highest price. The right fit involves strategy, fees, communication and how comfortable you feel.
Choosing an agent isn't simply about selecting the person who suggests the highest selling price.
The right fit may involve experience, communication, strategy, fees, local knowledge and how comfortable you feel with the way your property will be represented.
An appraisal is a useful start. Ask how the suggested selling price was reached.
What comparable properties support it? What is happening in the local market? How does the agent intend to position your property?
In South Australia, agents are required to provide recent comparable sales information and supporting information for their estimated selling price as part of the sales agency agreement.
Ask how the agent recommends taking the property to market and why.
Consider the proposed marketing, method of sale, campaign timing, inspection process and how potential buyers will be followed up.
The important question is why the strategy suits your particular property.
Ask for a clear explanation of the agent's commission or fee structure and any additional costs.
Marketing, photography, online advertising, styling and other campaign expenses may be separate from the selling fee.
Make sure you understand what is included before deciding how you want to proceed.
Selling a property can involve frequent decisions.
Consider how the agent communicates with you, how accessible they are, how feedback will be provided and whether you feel comfortable asking questions.
You don't need to understand everything about selling property before speaking with an agent. You should simply feel comfortable asking:
Why are you recommending this? What are my alternatives? What will this cost? What happens next?
Clear answers can tell you a great deal about the relationship you're considering.
Clarity can help sellers understand the options available to them, the questions worth asking and the information they may want to consider before deciding how to proceed with their sale.
The aim isn't to make the decision for you. It's to help you approach it with greater clarity.
Useful resource: SA.GOV.AU — Hiring a professional for house and land sales. Covers professional registration, the role of an agent, agent fees, sales agency agreements and the role of conveyancers and solicitors.
General information is a starting point. When you'd like personal guidance for your situation, let's talk.
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