Real estate is local, and an agent’s value often comes from pricing judgement, negotiation and the ability to manage a transaction under time pressure. Whether buying, selling or leasing, compare agents on relevant market experience rather than personality alone.
Choose experience that matches your transaction
Ask about recent work in the neighbourhood, property type and price range relevant to you. Commercial, luxury, investment and first-time residential transactions can require different expertise.
Test the pricing or search strategy
Sellers should ask how the recommended price was derived and how the agent would respond if interest is weak. Buyers should understand how properties are sourced and how offers are evaluated.
Review the marketing plan
For sellers, clarify photography, portals, paid promotion, open houses, database outreach and who pays each cost. Strong marketing should be specific to the property rather than a standard list of channels.
Agree communication expectations
Transactions generate frequent questions. Decide how often updates will be provided, preferred channels and who covers when the agent is unavailable.
Read representation and fee terms
Understand commission, exclusivity, contract duration, termination and any administrative or marketing fees. Regulations vary, so verify licence status and local requirements independently.
What to confirm before you hire
- Recent relevant local transactions
- Pricing/search strategy explained
- Marketing activities and costs itemised
- Communication cadence agreed
- Commission and exclusivity understood
- Licence or registration verified where required