While we encourage homeowners to explore selling privately, we know that this is not always the best option depending on your circumstances and what you are comfortable with. We understand that listing with a real estate agent can have its advantages, and if you do go down this track it pays to find the right agent for you and your needs especially if you are new to selling.
It goes without saying that the first step to finding a real estate agent is to ask around for recommendations – if your friend or family member had a great experience with one agent, it will be much easier to trust that agent. Just like any professional relationship, trust plays a huge role in working together. We highly recommend getting familiar with the Real Estate Agents Code of Conduct as it was created to protect you by setting the minimum standard for agents in New Zealand. You can even check an agent’s license and if they have any complaints against them through the public register.
If you feel you can trust an agent then your decision on whether to work with them or not should boil down to the following factors:
Experience – It pays to find out about the agent’s track record including their sales history and time spent in the market. It is also useful to see how many properties they currently represent and whether they have the brand and resource to help your sell your pad.
Knowledge about the neighbourhood – The more they know about your neighbourhood, the easier it will be for them to target the right buyers and market your home. Some agents work only in specific neighbourhoods and can offer intricate knowledge of that area as well as being tuned into the latest sales data and trends.
Commission Rate – Commission rates can vary significantly and this comes down to your budget in the end, but you can expect to pay anywhere from 2% to 4.5% in commission fees. You can of course try to negotiate this amount when factoring in what they are offering. When making a decision on commission rate ensure you understand the complete services the estate agent will and will not provide.
Marketing – All agents should provide you with a solid marketing plan to be able to sell your property as quickly as possible. Some agents will charge you with advertising fees so these should also be itemised in the plan, but it is best to find out what marketing they are willing to do at no cost before you commit to anything.
If choose to engage with several agents in the seeking process, we suggest that you do your homework on each one and make sure to ask many questions. It may even help to create a scorecard for each agent to easily compare your best options. Remember, it shouldn’t cost you a fortune nor should it be a difficult process so try to narrow it down to those you can most trust!
If you do wish to hear from a range of agents before deciding who you want to work with. You can list your property on Here’s a House, without disclosing your specific address, and then wait to see what they can offer.